UTSA to Face South Florida in Second Straight Thursday Night Appearance
Fifteen Seasons of Roadrunners Football
In 2025, the Roadrunners mark their fifteenth season of football. As one of the relatively new programs in the FBS, UTSA has advanced quickly through the collegiate football ranks.
Program Origins and Early Years
After forming its program from the ground up and completing a practice year in 2010, UTSA debuted as an FCS Independent team in 2011. The following season, the program joined the Western Athletic Conference for its 2012 campaign.
Rise Through the Ranks
UTSA moved into Conference USA in 2013, officially becoming an FBS program in 2014. The team’s first year drew impressive support, setting modern startup records with 56,743 fans at the inaugural game against Northeastern State and an average of 35,521 attendees for six home games that season.
Postseason Breakthrough and Early Successes
The Roadrunners reached their first postseason appearance in the 2016 New Mexico Bowl, only six seasons after their debut. In 2017, UTSA earned its first victory over a Big 12 opponent by defeating Baylor 17–10.
Championship Era and Continued Growth
In 2021, UTSA achieved multiple milestones: a road victory against Illinois from the Big Ten, their first conference championship with a 49–42 win over WKU, and a 12–2 season record capped by their third bowl game. The following year, they repeated as league champions by defeating North Texas 48–27, finishing the season 11–3 and securing their third consecutive bowl appearance.
"UTSA set NCAA modern startup program records in 2011 by drawing 56,743 fans to their inaugural game against Northeastern State."
Summary
UTSA’s rapid rise from a fledgling program in 2011 to a consistent conference champion by 2025 showcases the team’s remarkable growth and enduring fan support.