The 2024 season was one for the history books for the SMU Mustangs. In their first year as members of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), SMU made a statement, finishing the season with an impressive 11-2 record, including a flawless 8-0 in conference play. Head coach Rhett Lashlee, now in his third year, proved that the Mustangs belonged among college football’s elite. At the heart of their success was a high-octane offense that averaged 38.5 points per game, ranking sixth nationally. Quarterback Kevin Jennings stepped into the spotlight, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 22 touchdowns while running back Brashard Smith anchored a powerful ground attack.
The Mustangs scored 2,557 rushing yards as a team, showcasing a balanced and explosive approach. Defensively, SMU was no slouch either. The unit dubbed “Club Takeaway” held opponents to just 20.8 points per game, ranking 28th in the nation. Their ability to create turnovers and apply consistent pressure was a key factor in the team’s success. Linebacker Kobe Wilson led the team with 110 total tackles, including 50 solo and 60 assisted. He recorded 6.0 tackles for loss (TFL), totaling 22 yards, 3.0 sacks for 17 yards, and secured 2 interceptions.
Wilson also contributed two pass breakups and four quarterback hurries, and Defensive Back Isaiah Nwokobia amassed 96 total tackles, with 51 solo and 45 assisted. He achieved 3.5 TFL for 10 yards, 0.5 sacks for 5 yards, and led the team with three interceptions. Additionally, he had three pass breakups and two quarterback hurries. The regular season crescendoed with a trip to the ACC Championship Game, where SMU faced perennial powerhouse Clemson. It was a nail-biter that came down to the wire, with Clemson edging out SMU 34-31 on a last-second field goal. While the loss was heartbreaking, it couldn’t overshadow the Mustangs’ incredible achievement of reaching the title game in their inaugural ACC season.
The Mustangs’ stellar performance earned them a berth in the expanded College Football Playoff. Matched up against Penn State in the opening round, SMU started strong but ultimately fell short, losing 38-10. Despite the early exit, just making it to the playoffs was a monumental accomplishment for a program that has clawed its way back from the brink. It’s impossible to discuss SMU’s resurgence without reflecting on their journey. Decades after the infamous NCAA “death penalty,” SMU has reemerged as a force to be reckoned with in college football.
Bolstered by significant investments in facilities and recruitment, the Mustangs have embraced the opportunities of the new era of college athletics. The 2024 season was a turning point for SMU, signaling a return to relevance and a legitimate place among the nation’s top programs. With a strong foundation, an innovative coaching staff, and a taste of the big stage, SMU looks poised to build on this season’s success. The Mustangs have made it clear: they’re here to stay.
