SMU Football enters the 2025 season under the weight of considerable expectations, facing a pivotal test of their Sustained Championship Drive. After a surprising 2024 campaign that saw them reach the College Football Playoff, the Mustangs are no longer underdogs. Head coach Rhett Lashlee’s squad is poised for another strong showing, but a tougher schedule and key roster changes present significant hurdles. Can they live up to the hype?
Preseason Buzz: High Hopes on the Hilltop
The Mustangs’ impressive 2024 season, which included an 11-3 record, an ACC Championship appearance, and a College Football Playoff berth, has fueled significant preseason hype. Various analysts and models are projecting another strong season for SMU, though opinions diverge on just how successful they will be.
Projected Record and Rankings
ESPN’s FPI model is particularly bullish on SMU, projecting an 11-1 record. This could potentially set up a rematch against Clemson in the ACC Championship game and a return to the College Football Playoff. Phil Steele rates SMU as tied for the second-best team in the ACC, also behind Clemson. The Associated Press Top 25 poll has the Mustangs ranked No. 16 to start the season. However, more conservative predictions estimate win totals around 8.5 games, with projected records ranging from 7-5 to 9-3, acknowledging the increased difficulty of their schedule.
Key Players and Roster Dynamics
SMU’s success in 2025 hinges on the performance of key returning players and the ability of new faces to step up and fill the voids left by departing talent.
Offensive Stars
Junior quarterback Kevin Jennings is the centerpiece of the Mustangs’ offense. Coming off a season where he threw for 3,245 yards and 23 touchdowns, while adding 354 rushing yards and five scores, Jennings is considered a potential Heisman Trophy contender. According to CBS Sports, his dual-threat ability makes him one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the nation. Tight end R.J. Maryland’s decision to return for another season provides a significant boost to the passing game. Veteran guard Logan Parr, entering his sixth year, is expected to anchor a deep and experienced offensive line.
Replacing Offensive Production
While the Mustangs boast key returners, they must replace significant production at the receiver and running back positions. Jordan Hudson, Daylon Singleton, and Jalen Cooper are expected to emerge as Jennings’ primary targets. At running back, Derrick McFall and Miami transfer Chris Johnson Jr. will aim to fill the void left by Brashard Smith and top receivers Roderick Daniels, Key’Shawn Smith, and Moochie Dixon. According to PFF, the development of these new playmakers will be crucial to SMU’s offensive success.
Defensive Leadership and Turnover
Safety Isaiah Nwokobia, a first-team All-ACC selection in 2024 with 100 tackles, leads the SMU defense. His partnership with Ahmaad Moses forms what many consider one of the best safety duos in the country. However, the defense faces turnover, particularly at linebacker and defensive line. Finding replacements for key contributors in these areas will be critical for maintaining a high level of defensive performance.
Schedule Challenges and ACC Competition
SMU faces a significantly tougher schedule in 2025 compared to their inaugural ACC season. This increased difficulty is a major factor in more conservative preseason predictions.
Tough Non-Conference Matchups
The Mustangs’ non-conference schedule includes challenging matchups against Baylor and TCU. These rivalry games will provide early tests for SMU and could impact their national ranking and playoff aspirations.
Navigating the ACC Gauntlet
In ACC play, SMU faces formidable opponents such as Clemson, Miami, and Louisville. These games will be crucial in determining their standing in the conference and their chances of returning to the ACC Championship game. According to 247 Sports, the Clemson game, in particular, will be a key measuring stick for the Mustangs.
Superlative Predictions
Based on the available information, here are some superlative predictions for the 2025 SMU football season:
- Most Valuable Player: Kevin Jennings, QB. His dual-threat ability and leadership will be essential for the Mustangs’ success.
- Offensive Player to Watch: Jordan Hudson, WR. He is poised to become Jennings’ top target and a breakout star in the ACC.
- Defensive Player to Watch: Isaiah Nwokobia, S. He will anchor the defense and continue to be a tackling machine.
- Biggest Surprise: Chris Johnson Jr., RB. The Miami transfer will exceed expectations and provide a spark to the running game.
- Team Superlative: Most Improved Pass Rush. The defensive line, despite losing key players, will develop throughout the season and become a strength.
“Prove It” Year
The preseason predictions and analyses have placed a spotlight on SMU, creating both excitement and pressure. As Coach Lashlee stated, “We feel like we have something to prove.” Quarterback Kevin Jennings echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the team’s goal to “win it all, win the conference championship.” The Mustangs are no longer an underdog; their performance in 2025 will determine if they can solidify their place among the ACC’s elite and contend for national honors. Their journey begins on August 30th against East Texas A&M, a game that will set the tone for what’s to come.
