Fort Worth, Texas, January 3, 2026
The Texas State Bobcats showcased remarkable performance, securing a 41-10 victory against the Rice Owls in the Armed Forces Bowl. Quarterback Brad Jackson led with three touchdown passes and a rushing touchdown. This match underlined the significance of local talent investment, as key players such as Lincoln Pare and Chris Dawn Jr. made impactful contributions. The Bobcats finished the season strong, emphasizing the growth and potential of the team while marking a notable milestone for head coach GJ Kinne.
Fort Worth, Texas – January 2, 2026
Texas State Bobcats Triumph in Armed Forces Bowl
The Texas State Bobcats demonstrated exceptional teamwork and skill, securing a decisive 41-10 victory over the Rice Owls in the Armed Forces Bowl. Quarterback Brad Jackson led the charge with impressive statistics, throwing for 173 yards, three touchdowns, and adding a 6-yard rushing touchdown, showcasing not just his ability to pass, but also his capability to run the ball effectively.
This result not only highlights the resilience of the Bobcats but emphasizes the importance of investment in local talent and coaching, which can lead to significant achievements in college sports. As communities rally around their teams, they contribute to a culture that fosters growth, resilience, and potential for all local athletes.
Key Performances
- Brad Jackson: Threw for 173 yards, three touchdowns, and added a 6-yard rushing touchdown.
- Lincoln Pare: Rushed for 106 yards on 11 carries, including a 63-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, finishing his final season with 1,022 rushing yards.
- Chris Dawn Jr.: Caught two touchdown passes from Jackson, contributing significantly to the offense.
- Beau Sparks: Caught a 69-yard touchdown pass from Jackson in the third quarter, extending the lead to 17-7.
- Tyler Robles: Kicked two field goals from 30 and 28 yards out, adding to the Bobcats’ score.
- Aaron Turner: Caught a 2-yard touchdown pass from Rice quarterback Patrick Crayton Jr., accounting for the Owls’ only touchdown.
- Patrick Crayton Jr.: Completed four passes for 70 yards and one interception for Rice.
Game Summary
The Armed Forces Bowl kicked off with an exciting first half, where Jackson initiated scoring with a 6-yard rushing touchdown, allowing the Bobcats to lead 10-7 at halftime. As the second half unfolded, Jackson connected with Sparks for a remarkable 69-yard touchdown pass, while Dawn Jr. contributed with two touchdown receptions. Pare’s explosive 63-yard run in the fourth quarter solidified Texas State’s dominance. Meanwhile, Rice was only able to respond with a single touchdown by Turner in the latter part of the match.
Season Highlights
- Texas State Bobcats: Finished the season with a 7-6 record, marking their third consecutive bowling victory.
- Lincoln Pare: Concluded his college career with 1,022 rushing yards in his final season.
- Chris Dawn Jr.: Achieved over 1,000 receiving yards this season, underscoring his key role in the team’s success.
Coaching Milestone
Head Coach GJ Kinne achieved a significant milestone with his 23rd win at Texas State, tying him for fourth place in the program’s Division I coaching victories. Kinne’s leadership has not only impacted the Bobcats’ performance on the field but has also fostered an environment conducive to growth and athlete success.
Looking Ahead
The Bobcats’ remarkable finish to the season, highlighted by a four-game winning streak, signals a bright future. With strong performances and a commitment to continuous improvement, this team has positioned itself well for the upcoming year. Local businesses and fans are encouraged to support these young athletes, recognizing their role in laying a foundation for future success in San Antonio sports and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the final score of the Armed Forces Bowl between Texas State and Rice?
The final score was Texas State 41, Rice 10.
Who was the standout player for Texas State in the Armed Forces Bowl?
Quarterback Brad Jackson was the standout player, throwing for 173 yards and three touchdowns, and adding a 6-yard rushing touchdown.
How did Lincoln Pare perform in his final game for Texas State?
Lincoln Pare rushed for 106 yards on 11 carries, including a 63-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, finishing his final season with 1,022 rushing yards.
What was the significance of Chris Dawn Jr.’s performance?
Chris Dawn Jr. caught two touchdown passes from Jackson, contributing significantly to the offense and achieving over 1,000 receiving yards for the season.
What coaching milestone did Head Coach GJ Kinne achieve?
Head Coach GJ Kinne secured his 23rd win with Texas State, tying him for fourth place in the program’s Division I coaching victories.
Key Features of the Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Texas State 41, Rice 10 |
| Standout Player | Brad Jackson (173 passing yards, 3 passing TDs, 1 rushing TD) |
| Lincoln Pare’s Performance | 106 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD, 1,022 rushing yards in final season |
| Chris Dawn Jr.’s Contribution | 2 receiving TDs, over 1,000 receiving yards for the season |
| Coaching Milestone | GJ Kinne’s 23rd win, tying for 4th in program’s Division I coaching victories |
Now Happening on X
- @KENS5 (January 2, 2026, 10:32 PM) San Antonio police report a man is dead following a disturbance on the city’s north side that ended in gunfire, with an investigation underway.View on X
- @ExpressNews (January 3, 2026, 7:45 AM) A death investigation linked to a former San Antonio mayor is ongoing, alongside searches for two missing teens and news of a popular pizzeria potentially opening locally.View on X
- @Oremus4Pacem (January 3, 2026, 8:24 PM) San Antonio police recovered explosive components at the scene of a Southeast Side apartment shooting, according to an SAPD report.View on X
- @ExpressNews (December 30, 2025, 6:46 PM) Search efforts for three missing girls in San Antonio are intensifying, a murder suspect remains at large, and a freeze warning is in effect for South Texas.View on X
- @ExpressNews (December 30, 2025, 7:15 PM) The search for a missing San Antonio woman has gone nationwide, a body was discovered near the Pearl district, and a longtime local restaurant is preparing to close.View on X
- @KENS5 (December 29, 2025, 2:40 AM) The San Antonio community is mourning a man shot and killed during a noise complaint that escalated into a deadly confrontation.View on X
- @Oremus4Pacem (December 29, 2025, 12:49 AM) Authorities are investigating a reported shooting at a North Side apartment complex in San Antonio, with EMS responding to the scene.View on X
- @BexarBrief (December 28, 2025, 8:15 AM) San Antonio Police report four suspects attempted a carjacking in downtown, resulting in minor injuries to victims.View on X
- @RiverCityNewsSA (December 28, 2025, 4:09 PM) Reflecting on San Antonio’s biggest crime stories of 2025, including officer-involved shootings and major arrests as the year ends.View on X
- @MichaelKarlis (December 31, 2025, 4:08 PM) Top 10 San Antonio news stories of 2025 include the SA/Hill Country floods, ICE raids, and political developments like Mayor Jones and redistricting.View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Texas at Austin Achieves National Recognition
Bobcats Secure Thrilling Victory Over Roadrunners
Churchill Chargers Volleyball Team Aims for State Championship
Texas State University Baseball Prepares for Rivalry Showdown
UTSA University Roadrunners Prepare for Texas State Baseball Clash
UTSA University Roadrunners Gear Up for Texas Longhorns Showdown
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
