Tim Wigmore
Updated on: October 8, 2024 2:44 am GMT
Mustangs Prepare for BYU Showdown with Dual Quarterback Strategy
In a highly anticipated Friday night clash, the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs will square off against the Brigham Young University (BYU) Cougars at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas. This matchup, set to kick off at 7 p.m. ET, will be broadcast live on ESPN2, providing college football fans an exciting opportunity to see two up-and-coming programs face off in their respective conferences.
SMU, now in its first season in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), enters the game with an impressive 2-0 record, having achieved victories against Nevada and Houston Christian. Meanwhile, BYU, embarking on its second season in the Big 12 Conference, is coming off a dominant 41-13 win over Southern Illinois, showcasing their potential under the guidance of coach Kalani Sitake.
This matchup marks the latest chapter in a historical rivalry, with BYU winning all four previous encounters. The most notable of these was the 1980 Holiday Bowl, where BYU executed a remarkable comeback to steal a victory from the Mustangs.
Quarterback Rotation: A Strategic Decision by Coach Rhett Lashlee
SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee has opted for a unique strategy this season, employing both Preston Stone and Kevin Jennings as his quarterbacks. Despite formally naming Stone as the starter, Lashlee confirmed he intends to utilize both players throughout the season, particularly in critical matchups like this one against BYU.
“Preston’s our starter. He earned that job. He’s gonna start and play a lot. I still think you’ll see Kevin,” Lashlee explained. This approach allowed both quarterbacks to gain valuable game experience in the opening weeks, which may prove crucial when facing a formidable opponent like BYU.
In the season opener against Nevada, Stone completed 17 of 30 passes for 254 yards and one touchdown, demonstrating his ability to lead the offense effectively. Jennings also made an impact, achieving 54 yards on four completions during the game. His performance in the subsequent matchup against Houston Christian solidified his status as a dual-threat quarterback, where he not only passed for 148 yards and one touchdown but also rushed for an additional 54 yards and another score.
Lashlee expressed satisfaction with the performances of both players thus far. He emphasized the importance of careful ball security when Jennings scrambles and has praised both quarterbacks for their ability to efficiently get the ball into the end zone.
Recent Performance and Player Insights
The success of SMU’s offense has been evident in their first two games, with a total of 1,003 yards gained. Both quarterbacks have contributed significantly to this offensive feat, with each finding the end zone multiple times. Lashlee acknowledged their good play and ability to protect the ball, stating, “We’ll continue to go as is, and I think BYU should be ready for both of them.”
Stone’s ability to command the offense has become increasingly clear, and he is expected to carry this momentum into the upcoming game against BYU. The Mustangs will need to exploit their offensive talents to stand a chance against a robust Cougar squad.
BYU’s Strong Start and Key Players
BYU enters the game with a fresh confidence from their opening win over Southern Illinois, where quarterback Jake Retzlaff showcased his skills by throwing for a career-high of 348 yards and three touchdowns. He will likely be a key figure against SMU’s defense, which will need to step up to contain BYU’s passing attack.
The Cougars are also bolstered by their recently acquired status in the Big 12, where they faced tough competition in recent years. Expectations remain modest, yet there remains an eagerness to prove their capabilities against established programs like SMU.
Watching the Game: Broadcast Information
<pFootball enthusiasts eager to catch the Friday night showdown between SMU and BYU can tune in to ESPN2, where Anish Shroff will provide play-by-play commentary, flanked by analyst Andre Ware. Sideline reporter Paul Carcaterra will also deliver insights throughout the game. For those who prefer streaming, the matchup will be available via the ESPN app, ESPN+, and Fubo, which is currently offering a free trial for new subscribers.
A Look Ahead: The Series Continues
This encounter forms part of a two-game series between the Mustangs and Cougars, following an agreement established last year. The second scheduled meeting will take place in 2027 at BYU’s LaVell Edwards Stadium, continuing the tradition of competition between these two programs.
While the historical balance has tilted in favor of BYU thus far, SMU aims to reverse that trend beginning with this pivotal matchup. The Mustangs must leverage both Stone and Jennings, along with their dynamic offensive play, to secure a crucial win in front of a home crowd.
As the two teams get ready to play, fans from both sides are feeling hopeful. They can’t wait to see a thrilling game filled with skill, smart plays, and determination in college football.
