UNT's Biggest Strength: "North Texas' biggest strength right now is an intangible SMU can't take away from them – hype. There is so much excitement and energy surrounding the football team and athletic program in general. From the hire of Seth Littrell, to the hire of new athletic director Wren Baker and transfer of two-time national champion Alec Morris, the stage is set for a rather lit (no pun intended) season opener. Except rowdy students and fans inside Apogee Stadium for the start of a new era."

UNT's Quarterback and WR Stability: "The quarterback situation is as stable as it's been since North Texas' bowl victory in 2013. Alec Morris has taken the reins and will lead the new look, spread offense while freshman Mason Fine waits in the wings. And although Morris rode the bench at Alabama and has only thrown one pass in the last four years, he, along with his coaches, swear he's ready to go.

As far as wide receivers go, it's no secret there isn't a lot of depth there. Littrell didn't have time in the offseason to add any big name recruits, so the Mean Green are rolling with a lot of the same guys from 2015. Their No. 1 option is sophomore Terian Goree, who caught only one touchdown last year."

Changes from 2015: "The biggest change from the coaching staff has been the implementation of the spread offense. Under previous coach Dan McCarney, North Texas ran a pro-style attack and didn't air it out. Now, as everyone at UNT likes to say, the Mean Green are going to "tee it high and let it fly." Except lots of passing, lots of no huddle, and hopefully, lots of points."

UNT's Biggest Weakness: "The team has several weaknesses, but the biggest issue is without question depth. This team lacks depth at several key positions – at wide receiver and along the offensive and defensive lives. This team was 1-11 last year, and depth was a big reason why."

Game Prediction: I'm not sold on North Texas' new squad, but I'm not sold on SMU's either. The slate has been wiped clean for both teams, but this is a literally a new era for Mean Green football, and I don't think they will take kindly to a loss against SMU at home to start it. For the first time in a long time, I'm predicting a North Texas victory. 34-30 UNT.

You can follow Reece on Twitter: @ReeceWaddell15