Introduction to the Iron Skillet Rivalry
SMU and TCU will face off in their final scheduled meeting Saturday, as the Iron Skillet Rivalry comes to a halt.
The two teams are meeting for the 104th time and have played all but seven years since 1915.
Here’s what to know about the matchup between two crosstown rivals.
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SMU vs. TCU: Game Details
When: 11 a.m. Saturday at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth.
Records: SMU (2-1); TCU (2-0)
Last meeting: SMU beat TCU 66-42 on Sept. 21, 2024, in the final scheduled game between the two teams at Ford Stadium.
What’s at Stake?
The stakes are quite obvious, as the winner of Saturday’s matchup gets to keep the Iron Skillet trophy in their respective city, possibly for good.
SMU is seeking a win to send a message to TCU after the Horned Frogs decided to end the rivalry just as it became even. After TCU had won 17 of 19 matchups, SMU has won three of the last five.
TCU is seeking revenge for last year’s blowout in Dallas. The matchup built momentum for SMU and helped propel the Mustangs to an 11-win season and College Football Playoff appearance.
Beyond bragging rights, Iron Skillet games have shown an ability to launch the winner to a great season and set the loser back.
SMU’s Offense
SMU’s offense went on a tear against TCU last season, putting up 66 points. The Horned Frogs defense left something to be desired in the 42-21 win over Abilene Christian last week, and Kevin Jennings and the Mustang offense need to highlight any weaknesses.
SMU’s offense showed how dangerous it can be when at its best. Running back TJ Harden has been outstanding with five touchdowns over the last two weeks. Wide receivers Jalen Cooper and Romello Brinson have been consistent, and tight end RJ Maryland finally scored his first touchdown last week.
But the SMU offense also made some costly mistakes against Missouri State and put the team on upset watch early. It cannot afford the same turnovers and penalties against TCU that it took last week.
TCU’s Offense
SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee had high praise for TCU quarterback Josh Hoover, saying he may be the best quarterback SMU faces all year.
Hoover has completed 76.2% of his passes for 621 yards, six touchdowns and just one interception in two games. He and his receivers are the greatest threat to SMU this week.
SMU’s defense, which is largely rebuilding this year, took some strides in the second half against Missouri State, shutting out the Bears after they took a 10-0 lead in the first quarter. But the challenge ahead is much larger, and the Mustang defense will need to be at its best.
A big question is also the status of TCU’s starting running back Kevorian Barnes, who is questionable with a lower-body injury he suffered in the first half of last week’s game against Abilene Christian.
Prediction
Expect the conclusion of the Iron Skillet rivalry to make many wish it wasn’t ending at all. After being lopsided for most of its history, both teams are now on even footing, and through the early weeks of the season, both have shown potential to have successful seasons, as well as some early weaknesses.
It’s tough to tell which team is further along, as SMU has looked inconsistent through three games and TCU doesn’t have as many games under its belt. But SMU’s defense scored two touchdowns against TCU last year, and it’s difficult to see this less experienced group managing the same against a more mature and consistent Hoover.
The home-field advantage may be the difference.
Score: TCU 45, SMU 42
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Find more SMU coverage from The Dallas Morning News here.
Conclusion
The final scheduled meeting between SMU and TCU is a significant event in the world of college football. The Iron Skillet rivalry has been a longstanding tradition, with the two teams facing off 104 times since 1915. The stakes are high, with the winner getting to keep the Iron Skillet trophy in their respective city, possibly for good. SMU is seeking a win to send a message to TCU, while TCU is seeking revenge for last year’s blowout in Dallas. The game promises to be an exciting conclusion to the rivalry, with both teams looking to make a statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the SMU vs. TCU game:
Q: What time does the game start?
A: The game starts at 11 a.m. Saturday at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth.
Q: What are the records of the two teams?
A: SMU has a record of 2-1, while TCU has a record of 2-0.
Q: What is the Iron Skillet rivalry?
A: The Iron Skillet rivalry is a longstanding tradition between SMU and TCU, with the two teams facing off 104 times since 1915. The winner of the game gets to keep the Iron Skillet trophy in their respective city.
Q: Who is the starting quarterback for TCU?
A: The starting quarterback for TCU is Josh Hoover, who has completed 76.2% of his passes for 621 yards, six touchdowns and just one interception in two games.
