Saturday morning, the Lone Star state will turn its eyes to Dallas as the No. 17 SMU Mustangs host the Baylor Bears at Gerald J. Ford Stadium. Kickoff is set for 11:00 a.m., and this game marks the first meeting between the programs since 2016, reigniting a rivalry that dates back over 125 years. As members of different Power Five conferences—SMU in the ACC, Baylor in the Big 12—this clash carries both regional pride and national significance.
SMU comes in with confidence after a dominant 42–13 season opener over East Texas A&M. Quarterback Kevin Jennings threw for 260 yards and two touchdowns, connecting with receivers like Chris Johnson Jr., who added a 22-yard rushing touchdown. The Mustangs’ defense shone as well, forcing three turnovers and scoring two defensive touchdowns, proving the unit can make big plays when it matters most. Despite this success, discipline remains a focus, as penalties and turnovers could become costly against a program like Baylor.
The Bears, meanwhile, dropped their opener to Auburn, 38–24. Quarterback Jack Robertson showcased his arm, throwing for 419 yards and three touchdowns, but Baylor struggled to contain the Tigers, giving up 307 rushing yards and 415 total yards. SMU will look to exploit these defensive weaknesses, especially with its balanced rushing and passing attack.
Three Key Factors for SMU’s Success:
- Start Fast and Set the Tempo: Establishing an early lead will force Baylor to play from behind and energize the home crowd.
- Win the Battle in the Trenches: Controlling the line of scrimmage is essential. The SMU defensive front must disrupt Baylor’s run game, while the offensive line keeps Jennings upright and opens lanes for the running backs.
- Protect the Football and Control Momentum: Minimizing turnovers and penalties ensures SMU can sustain drives, control possession, and keep Baylor’s high-powered offense off the field.
This game is more than just a Texas rivalry—it’s an opportunity for SMU to showcase its ACC-era strength, growth as a program, and ability to compete with Power Five talent. With a balanced offense, opportunistic defense, and a home crowd ready to roar, the Mustangs have all the pieces in place to make a statement.
If SMU plays to its strengths, Saturday’s clash won’t just be a victory—it’ll send a message that the Mustangs are a force to be reckoned with in NCAA football.