North Texas has confirmed that Tayven Jackson will serve as the starting quarterback for their first game of the season against defending national champion Indiana. This announcement, initially reported by ESPN’s Pete Thamel, adds excitement to the matchup, as Jackson is a former player for Indiana who has transferred to North Texas.
Jackson, who has also played at UCF and began his college career at Tennessee, secured the starting role over competitors including sophomores Chaston Ditta and Chris Jimerson Jr., along with freshman Ziondre Williams. Neal Brown, the new head coach for the Mean Green after six years at West Virginia, noted that Jackson's experience will be crucial for the tough away game against Indiana.
In his final season at UCF, Jackson achieved a completion rate of 63.5%, throwing for 2,151 yards with 10 touchdowns and eight interceptions. During his time at Indiana, he participated in 13 games, completing 61.2% of his passes for 1,263 yards, with six touchdowns and six interceptions.
The season opener is set for September 5 at noon ET, which will mark Jackson's first appearance in the American Conference after competing in the Big Ten, Big 12, and SEC. Indiana will be led by former TCU quarterback Josh Hoover, following the exit of Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza to the NFL. More details regarding the game and team preparations are yet to be announced.
