Neal Brown Set to Steer North Texas Through Bowl Game, Eyes Player Retention

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New North Texas coach Neal Brown is focusing on building relationships with his players after the Mean Green's historic 11-win season. Brown, who was formally introduced on Monday, met with the team before the New Mexico Bowl against San Diego State on December 27. Despite just missing out on the College Football Playoff, Brown emphasized that this season is not yet over and his goal is to establish connections with the players. The transition comes after coach Eric Morris was named the new head coach at Oklahoma State. Morris had agreed to finish the season with North Texas but his team's loss to Tulane in the American Conference game sealed their fate. Morris was introduced at Oklahoma State on Monday, leaving North Texas to find an interim solution. Athletic director Jared Mosley expects to have a resolution on the interim situation within the next couple of days. The school has a strong staff in place, with coaches who have invested in the players all season. Brown, a 45-year-old former West Virginia and Troy coach, has had conversations with Morris about the program and has sensed Morris' respect for North Texas. Brown aims to build on the success of Morris and continue to push the program forward. He has a strong track record, with a 72-51 record at West Virginia and Troy, including a 5-1 bowl record. The Mean Green have talented players, including quarterback Drew Mestemaker and running back Caleb Hawkins, who will look to contribute to the team's future success under Brown's leadership.