The team started off the season going undefeated through nine games, including a dramatic win over then-3rd ranked Louisville, which was highlighted by kicker Jeremy Ito's last minute field goal to seal the win. After they were defeated by both West Virginia and Cincinnati, they received an invitation to play Kansas State in the inaugural Texas Bowl.
Through their first nine games, the team maintained an unbeaten record, including a thrilling victory over then-3rd ranked Louisville highlighted by Jeremy Ito's last-minute field goal. Following losses to West Virginia and Cincinnati, they received an invitation to compete against Kansas State in the inaugural Texas Bowl.