By Michael Adams
Austin Sports Journal

Texas State head coach G.J. Kinne said his team is ready for “live action” as the Bobcats prepare to host Eastern Michigan Saturday at UFCU Stadium in San Marcos in their season opener.

Coming off a strong fall camp, Kinne said Monday during the Sun Belt Conference coaches conference call that the team is healthy, balanced and eager to take the field.

“It’s huge. It sets the tone for the season,” he said. “They definitely have our attention and our respect.”

He called the Eagles (5-7 in 2024) a solid Group of Five program and warned that the Bobcats will need to be sharp from the opening snap.

Kinne said the team’s explosiveness on offense, noting big plays in both the running and passing games stood out throughout camp. But he “wants more consistency as rotations and depth settle into place.”

Defensively, Texas State will lean on a proven unit that has ranked among the nation’s best in tackles for loss and sacks in recent years.

The Bobcats also bring new versatility to the offense, thanks to added depth at tight end. Kinne said that flexibility will allow them to vary formations, mixing spread sets with heavy looks and Wildcat packages.

“We’re always going to try to be multiple in personnel,” he explained.

While Texas State’s future move to the Pac-12 has drawn attention, Kinne insisted the program’s focus is squarely on 2025.

“You’re a week-to-week, month-to-month, year-to-year operation,” he said. “I’m sure there’s excitement, but the priority is Eastern Michigan.”

Game info

Texas State (8-5, 5-3 Sun Belt) vs. Eastern Michigan (5-7, 2-6 MAC)

When: 7 p.m., Saturday

Where: UFCU Stadium, San Marcos

TV/RADIO: ESPN+, KSTW 89.9 FM

Last meeting: Eastern Michigan 59, Texas State 21 (Sept. 25, 2021)

Note: 2024 records are listed