G.J. Kinne, who made headlines when he was appointed the third-youngest coach in FBS football at Texas State, has led the Bobcats to a commendable 26-13 record over the past three seasons. As the head coach prepares for the upcoming Armed Forces Bowl, which sees Texas State face off against Rice, he reflects on the significance of Fort Worth in his life. Kinne’s personal ties to the city run deep, with his family having established roots there over the years.
During a recent event at Billy Bob’s Texas, which hosted a welcome dinner featuring local barbecue, Kinne shared a light-hearted memory of his grandmother, who longed to return to Fort Worth from Dallas, emphasizing his familial connections to the area. The Armed Forces Bowl, taking place at TCU’s Amon G. Carter Stadium on Friday with kickoff at noon, marks a special occasion for Kinne and his squad, who enter the game with a record of 6-6 against Rice, which stands at 5-7. Oddsmakers favor Texas State by a substantial margin of 14.5 points.
This upcoming game is notable as it represents a rematch; Texas State previously defeated Rice 45-21 in the 2023 First Responder Bowl, solidifying their competitive edge. Kinne’s own history as a player adds layers to the matchup, having faced adversity in the 2011 Armed Forces Bowl while quarterbacking for Tulsa.
Kinne’s upbringing in Mesquite has shaped his journey, following a path from a highly-rated high school recruit to college football standout and later navigating the NFL and CFL. His family’s legacy in football, with his father Gary Joe Kinne having an impactful playing and coaching career, further illustrates his deep connection to Texas football culture.
As the Bobcats prepare to honor their roots and legacy on the field, Kinne’s connection to Fort Worth and dedication to Texas State football provides an inspiring backdrop to their bowl appearance. With the weight of family history and local pride, Kinne is set to lead his team towards what they hope will be a triumphant victory on Friday.