The Texas State Bobcats are riding a wave of momentum heading into the 2025 season. Especially, fueled by consecutive 8-5 records and back-to-back First Responder Bowl victories under head coach G.J. Kinne. With a challenging schedule on the horizon, the central question is whether Kinne can propel the Bobcats to even greater heights.
2025 Texas State Football Schedule
The Bobcats’ 2025 schedule features a mix of non-conference and Sun Belt Conference matchups:
- Aug. 30: vs. Eastern Michigan (Home Opener)
- Sept. 6: at UTSA
- Sept. 13: at Arizona State
- Sept. 20: vs. Nicholls (Family Weekend/Battle for the Paddle)
- Sept. 27: Open Week
- Oct. 4: at Arkansas State
- Oct. 11: vs. Troy (Homecoming)
- Oct. 18: at Marshall
- Oct. 25: Open Week
- Oct. 28 (Tue): vs. James Madison (Primetime Party/Black Out)
- Nov. 8: at Louisiana
- Nov. 15: at Southern Miss
- Nov. 22: vs. ULM
- Nov. 29: vs. South Alabama (Senior Day)
Texas State’s non-conference schedule begins with a home game against Eastern Michigan, followed by road trips to UTSA and Arizona State. The Arizona State game is particularly noteworthy, as the Sun Devils were the 2024 Big 12 champions and a College Football Playoff participant. The Bobcats conclude their non-conference slate with a home game against Nicholls, an FCS opponent.
Against Sun Belt Conference foes, Texas State faces a blend of familiar rivals and formidable opponents. Home games against Troy, James Madison, ULM, and South Alabama present opportunities to capitalize on home-field advantage. On the road, games at Arkansas State, Marshall, Louisiana, and Southern Miss will provide stern tests of the team’s resilience.
The Bobcats have two open weeks (Sept. 27 and Oct. 25) that will allow them to rest and prepare throughout the season.
Can G.J. Kinne Pass the 8-5 Test?
Head coach G.J. Kinne has revitalized the Texas State football program, leading the team to consecutive 8-5 seasons and bowl victories. Following the departure of nearly 40 players after the 2024 season, Kinne and his staff have responded by adding 45 new players, including 22 transfers, 18 high school recruits, and five junior college signees.
Landon Keopple, who has been elevated to offensive coordinator, will guide the offense in a new direction. Three transfer quarterbacks—Holden Geriner (Auburn), Gevani McCoy (Oregon State), and Nate Yarnell (Pitt)—will compete for the starting role. McCoy and Yarnell both bring game experience, having appeared in 19 games in 2024.
Defensive coordinator Dexter McCoil returns for his second year after a strong debut season in 2024. Key returning players on defense include safety Ryan Nolan, defensive ends Kalil Alexander and Jo’Laison Landry, and linebacker Treylin Payne. The defense has also been bolstered by transfers such as defensive lineman Kyran Bourda (Arizona State) and linebacker Terrence Cooks Jr. (TCU).
With a mix of returning talent and promising newcomers, the Bobcats are poised to compete at a high level. Kinne’s leadership and the team’s depth will be crucial factors in navigating a challenging schedule and achieving success.
KEEP READING: Louisiana 2025 Football Schedule: Will the Ragin’ Cajun Return to the Sun Belt Championship?
The 2025 campaign presents both hope and challenge for Texas State. With a demanding schedule and significant roster turnover, surpassing the 8-5 mark will require hard work, player development, and unwavering determination. However, under G.J. Kinne’s guidance, the Bobcats have demonstrated their ability to rise to the occasion. Throughout the season, observers will watch keenly to see if Texas State can reach new heights in 2025.
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