Peterson's 4 TDs help UTSA beat North Texas 35-16 for share of American Conference lead

Marion Peterson had an impressive performance, rushing for a career-high 179 yards and scoring four touchdowns as UTSA defeated North Texas 35-16. UTSA, North Texas, and Memphis all stand at 5-1 in conference play. Memphis, sitting at 8-2 overall, does not have a scheduled matchup against either team during the season.

Cornerback RJ Lester Jr. intercepted a pass from Tayven Jackson and returned it 9 yards for the first score in the first quarter, with just 9:33 remaining on the clock. Dominic De Freitas put North Texas ahead early in the second quarter with a 31-yard field goal. However, UTSA capitalized on the next drive, with Peterson running for a 47-yard touchdown, extending their lead to 14-3.

With only 35 seconds left before halftime, Peterson once again showcased his prowess, running for another touchdown from the 2-yard line, making the score 21-3. North Texas's RJ Lester Jr. left the game due to injury following their first half opening drive, later returning to the sideline wearing a sling.

Chris Jimerson Jr. stepped in to reduce North Texas's deficit to 21-10 with a 16-yard touchdown pass to Max Reese. The game concluded with Peterson scoring two more touchdowns, one for 38 yards and another for 46 yards within the last 3 and a half minutes, sealing the victory for UTSA. The two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful, leaving UTSA ahead 21-16.

Peterson made his mark in just 11 carries, a testament to his effectiveness on the field. UTSA has won five of their last six games against North Texas. North Texas, coming into the game with a six-game winning streak, averaged 51 points per game during that span. North Texas now faces Tulane on the road. UTSA will travel to play UAB on the road.