The SMU football program is making significant investments in its future, both on and off the field. The university is set to invest $110 million in a new end zone complex for its football stadium, Ford Stadium, which will greatly enhance the facilities once it is completed after this season. Alongside this infrastructure investment, SMU is also striving to make its mark on the conference stage by seeking a conference title for the first time since 1984.
In recent years, SMU has been trying to elevate its status by exploring options to join a larger conference. Previously, they were in talks with the Pac-12, and now they are positioning themselves for a potential invitation from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), along with schools like Stanford and Cal. By upgrading their facilities and performance, SMU aims to attract the attention of these prominent conferences and secure an invitation.
But the university’s aspirations don’t stop there. The 2023 SMU Mustangs, under the leadership of head coach Rhett Lashlee, are also aiming to win a conference title. This would be a significant achievement for the team, considering their last conference title was won almost four decades ago.
There are several reasons why this could be SMU’s year. Firstly, their schedule is favorable compared to previous years. Notable conference contenders from the previous season, such as Central Florida, Cincinnati, and Houston, are no longer on their schedule. Instead, they will face teams with new head coaches for half of their conference games. While there are two challenging early games against Oklahoma and the reigning national champion runner-up, SMU has the potential to upset these teams and pave the way for an exceptional season.
To achieve this, the Mustangs will rely on their improved defense, which boasts several talented players from the transfer portal, including defensive linemen Jordan Miller and Elijah Roberts from Miami, as well as safety Jonathan McGill from Stanford. The defense has demonstrated their determination and skill in practice, and a strong defense could be the key to SMU’s success.
Offensively, SMU is led by first-year starting quarterback Preston Stone, who is highly touted and has shown promise in previous games and fall camp. Despite the challenges he may face, Stone has the potential to guide the team to victory and bring home a conference title.
In the worst-case scenario, things may not go as smoothly for Stone and the team. The nonconference games against tough opponents like Oklahoma and Temple could prove challenging. Additionally, if the team lacks focus and encounters obstacles along the way, their path to a conference title could be derailed.
Overall, the best-case scenario seems more likely for SMU. The team is well-equipped, with strong depth in various positions, especially on defense and in skill positions. The Mustangs have recruited talented players through the transfer portal, giving them the appearance of a Power Five team. With these factors in mind, it is plausible that SMU could make it to the conference title game and potentially secure a spot in a New Year’s Six bowl game.
In terms of predictions, a win-loss record of 10-2 seems achievable for SMU. The team is confident and prepared to take on the challenges that lie ahead.
In conclusion, SMU’s football program is making significant investments to strengthen its position both on and off the field. By investing $110 million in a new end zone complex and pursuing a conference title, the university is demonstrating its commitment to success. With a favorable schedule, a formidable defense, and a promising quarterback, SMU has the potential to make significant strides and achieve their goals in the upcoming season.
