Introduction to SMU’s 2025 Season
The SMU Mustangs started their 2025 season with high hopes and a promising nonconference schedule. Ranked No. 16 in the nation, they faced two tune-up opponents in East Texas A&M and Missouri State, as well as two potential résumé-builders against Baylor and TCU. A 4-0 record could have placed them firmly in the top 25, or even the top 10, with a possible path back to the College Football Playoff.
The Current State of SMU’s Season
However, four weeks into the season, the Mustangs sit at 2-2, having already lost more games than they did in the entire regular season last year. They have lost multiple starters to injuries, with others continuing to play through their injuries. The team has blown two fourth-quarter leads to in-state rivals and handed the Iron Skillet back to TCU, possibly for good, after a 35-24 loss at Amon G. Carter Stadium.
Coach Rhett Lashlee’s Perspective
SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee expressed his disappointment with the team’s current situation, stating, "It’s two games this year where we’ve gotten the lead in the fourth quarter, and they made the plays down the stretch, and we didn’t." Despite this, Lashlee remains confident in his players, saying, "We’re disappointed that we’re sitting where we are, but I’ll tell you this: I’m not disappointed in our players one bit."
The Path Forward for SMU
SMU’s many paths back to the postseason have vanished, leaving them with only one remaining option: win the ACC. Since making the jump to a power conference, SMU has learned that scheduling can be tricky. A lack of competitive opponents nearly robbed the Mustangs of their spot in the College Football Playoff last year. The team must now focus on winning the ACC to secure a spot in the postseason.
Comparison to Last Year’s Team
Last year’s SMU team had an elite defense and the ability to be opportunistic, winning games that they shouldn’t have. In contrast, this year’s team has been inconsistent and ineffective against skilled offenses. The Mustangs have shown that they can play better against Big 12 opponents, but they need to work on finishing games strong.
Remaining Games and ACC Play
SMU still has the majority of its season left to make improvements. The ACC appears to be wide open, especially with preseason favorite Clemson showing signs of being overrated. The Mustangs know that there’s only one path remaining, and another misstep could mean a lower-tier bowl game.
Player Perspectives
SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings said, "We’re gonna lose some, we’re gonna win some. It’s about how you respond the following weeks. We’ve got ACC play in front of us. All that matters is we go win all of them games right there. We put all of this behind us. It’s about how we finish."
Photos: TCU Hoists Iron Skillet
Conclusion
In conclusion, SMU’s 2025 season has not started as planned, with the team sitting at 2-2 after four weeks. The Mustangs have lost multiple starters to injuries and have blown two fourth-quarter leads to in-state rivals. Despite this, the team remains confident and focused on winning the ACC to secure a spot in the postseason. With the majority of the season left to play, SMU has the opportunity to make improvements and finish strong.
FAQs
Q: What is SMU’s current record?
A: SMU’s current record is 2-2.
Q: What happened to the Iron Skillet?
A: The Iron Skillet was handed back to TCU after SMU’s 35-24 loss at Amon G. Carter Stadium.
Q: What is SMU’s path forward to the postseason?
A: SMU’s only remaining path to the postseason is to win the ACC.
Q: How does this year’s team compare to last year’s team?
A: This year’s team lacks the elite defense and opportunistic play of last year’s team, which had an elite defense and won games that they shouldn’t have.
Q: What is the outlook for the remainder of the season?
A: The outlook for the remainder of the season is uncertain, but SMU has the opportunity to make improvements and finish strong with the majority of the season left to play.
