North Texas returns zero starters from last year's FBS-leading offense. New head coach Neal Brown will lean on a run-heavy scheme, featuring West Virginia transfer Jahiem White and a rebuilt offensive line anchored by Georgia Southern transfer Chandler Strong. The lack of continuity and inexperience at quarterback (Chris Jimerson Jr.) could lead to early struggles against Indiana's defense.

The Mean Green ranked 130th nationally in run defense last season, allowing 215.7 rushing yards per game. While the secondary is strong with Baylor transfers Caden and Cameren Jenkins, the front seven remains a question mark. Indiana may exploit this weakness on the ground, especially if the weather (windy, 64°F) discourages a heavy passing attack.

North Texas travels 722 miles to Bloomington for its season opener, facing a hostile road environment with a venue home-field advantage of 2.3. The team has no prior game experience this season, so adjusting to travel and crowd noise will be critical. The cool, windy forecast could also affect ball security and kicking.

The Mean Green lost their top kicker (Kali Nguma) and key return specialists. New kicker Dominic De Freitas (App State transfer) has solid stats but must adapt to a new team and weather conditions. With a projected close game, special teams could be a deciding factor.

Neal Brown's first game as head coach brings a new offensive philosophy, but opposing scouts expect similar schemes to last year's high-powered attack. However, the lack of returning starters and a new defensive coordinator (Matt Powledge) create uncertainty. Indiana's preparation may be aided by film of Brown's previous teams, but North Texas's personnel is largely unproven at this level.

Zeon Chriss-Gremillion and Kadin Semonza are still competing for the starting job. Neither has separated himself, and the offense's ceiling depends on consistent QB play. The decision will shape the game plan against Duke's defense.

Jamauri McClure, Maurice Turner, and Jaylin Lucas give Tulane a deep, versatile rushing attack. Expect heavy reliance on the run to control the clock and protect an unsettled QB, especially on the road against a Duke team with a 2.9-point home-field advantage.

Six of the top 10 tacklers return, led by safeties Jack Tchienchou and Kevin Adams III and linebacker Chris Rodgers. However, the defensive line lost five key players to Power 4 programs, creating a potential vulnerability against Duke's rushing attack.

The 771-mile trip to Durham is manageable, and the forecast calls for clear skies and 58°F with light wind. No extreme weather or long-distance fatigue should affect performance, allowing Tulane to focus on execution.

Kicker Jackson Courville is reliable from long range, but punting is a concern. Jaylin Lucas provides a dynamic return threat. Field position battles could be critical in a low-scoring game, and Duke may exploit Tulane's punting weakness.