Late Pick-Six Lifts San Diego State to 56-49 Win Over North Texas

By Brad Wilson | AP News Updated: Dec. 22, 2025, 10:41 p.m.

DENTON, Texas — San Diego State survived a wild, back-and-forth shootout on Saturday night, outlasting North Texas 56-49 in a Top-5 matchup that featured explosive runs, rapid scoring and a decisive defensive play late.

The Aztecs (2-0) answered every North Texas surge and used a fourth-quarter interception return for a touchdown to gain the edge in a game that produced 105 points and 15 touchdowns at DATCU Stadium.

“We knew it was going to be a fight,” San Diego State coach Chad Gruver said. “Both teams kept swinging, and our guys never flinched. Winning a game like that on the road says a lot about this group.”

The opening minutes set the tone. San Diego State struck on the first play from scrimmage when Lucky Sutton burst through the line and raced 75 yards for a touchdown. North Texas answered immediately with a 75-yard scoring run by Caleb Hawkins, igniting a night in which neither defense could slow the tempo.

Sutton delivered one of the most prolific rushing performances of the season, piling up 250 yards and repeatedly breaking chunk plays whenever the Aztecs needed momentum. Hawkins matched the production on the other sideline, scoring four touchdowns and powering a Mean Green offense that rarely needed more than a few snaps to reach the end zone.

North Texas quarterback Drew Mestemaker moved the offense efficiently, but a costly fourth-quarter mistake proved decisive. With the score tight, San Diego State defensive back Bryce Phillips jumped a pass and returned it 59 yards for a touchdown, giving the Aztecs a critical lead.

“That was the difference,” North Texas coach Matt Cummings said. “In games like this, you need one stop, one play. We just couldn’t get it.”

Jayden Denegal directed the Aztecs’ offense with precision, completing 19 of 23 passes and leading a final drive after North Texas pulled even at 49. Denegal connected with Jacob Bostick, who finished with 145 receiving yards, to move into scoring position before Christian Washington punched in the go-ahead touchdown with 25 seconds remaining.

“We wanted to finish it,” Denegal said. “No overtime. Just execute and close.”

North Texas (1-1) stayed aggressive throughout, leaning on Hawkins and a high-tempo attack that consistently challenged San Diego State’s defense. Despite the loss, the Mean Green demonstrated they can score with anyone in the country.

San Diego State left Denton with a road win that bolsters its national standing and reinforces its ability to win in contrasting styles.

“It won’t always be pretty,” Gruver said. “But a win against a Top-5 team on the road is one we’ll take every time.”