The Charlotte 49ers return home on October 24, 2025, to host the high-powered North Texas Mean Green in a matchup that presents both a challenge and an opportunity for a program still searching for consistency under head coach Biff Poggi. Entering at 2-5 overall with a 25% record against the spread, Charlotte has struggled to establish an identity in its second year under Poggi, plagued by inconsistency on offense and defensive lapses that have cost them games late. Yet, despite the record, there are signs of a foundation beginning to take shape—particularly in the competitiveness the 49ers have shown in spurts against superior opponents. The offense has been a major point of concern, averaging just 17.7 points per game while ranking near the bottom of the American Athletic Conference in yards per play and red-zone efficiency. Quarterback Trexler Ivey has shown flashes of potential but has also been inconsistent, throwing as many interceptions as touchdowns as he continues to adjust to defensive pressure and new personnel around him. Charlotte’s offensive line has struggled with protection, allowing far too many sacks and limiting the ability to push the ball downfield. As a result, the offense has leaned heavily on the running game led by Shadrick Byrd and Terron Kellman, though neither has been able to sustain drives due to poor run blocking and predictable play-calling. Against North Texas’s aggressive defense, which has improved dramatically in creating turnovers and controlling the line of scrimmage, Charlotte must focus on establishing rhythm early and protecting Ivey from relentless pressure.

If they can get their running backs involved both on the ground and through short passing routes, they might be able to keep the Mean Green defense off balance long enough to generate scoring opportunities. Defensively, Charlotte has faced equal challenges. The 49ers are allowing over 32 points per game and have struggled mightily to stop the run, giving up nearly 200 rushing yards per contest. Their inability to get off the field on third downs and lack of depth along the defensive front have led to fatigue issues late in games—a dangerous combination against a North Texas team that thrives on pace and endurance. However, there are bright spots. Linebacker Demetrius Knight II has been a force in the middle, leading the team in tackles and providing veteran leadership, while cornerback Jalar Holley has emerged as a ballhawk in the secondary, capable of creating turnovers that could swing momentum. For Charlotte to stay competitive, they’ll need to play their cleanest game of the season: limiting penalties, winning the turnover battle, and controlling possession. Special teams will also play a role—field position could be their best ally in slowing down a North Texas offense that thrives in open space. From a betting standpoint, Charlotte’s 25% ATS rate shows they’ve consistently underperformed relative to expectations, especially at home where slow starts have put them in early deficits. That trend will need to reverse if they want to hang with one of the AAC’s most explosive teams. Still, home-field advantage offers a sliver of hope, and the 49ers’ best chance lies in turning this into a grind-it-out, low-possession game that limits North Texas’s opportunities to build rhythm. If Charlotte’s defense can hold early and their offense sustains drives through short, efficient passes and steady runs, they can keep the scoreline respectable and potentially cover the spread. Realistically, though, the 49ers are facing an uphill climb against a more talented and disciplined opponent. Their challenge is not just to survive North Texas’s speed and tempo but to show measurable growth—a necessary step for a young team still learning how to compete week to week in a demanding conference.