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SMU Football Will Shock The ACC In 2025

Mark Haines on March 10, 2025

The Mustangs aren’t just joining the conversation—they’re about to dominate it.

After surprising the college football world with an 11-3 record and perfect 8-0 conference run in their ACC debut, Southern Methodist University is loaded and ready to prove 2024 was no fluke. The question isn’t whether SMU belongs—it’s whether the rest of the ACC is ready for what’s coming next.

Kevin Jennings Is The Best Quarterback Nobody’s Talking About

One sentence: that’s all it takes to understand SMU’s offensive ceiling in 2025.

The Mustangs’ attack revolves around quarterback Kevin Jennings, who silently assembled one of the most impressive statistical seasons in the conference last year:

  • 3,245 passing yards (among ACC leaders)
  • 23 touchdowns against just 12 interceptions
  • Command of an offense that averaged 429.5 yards per game
  • Dual-threat ability that kept defensive coordinators sleepless

Jennings showed remarkable growth throughout last season, displaying impressive command of the offense and making plays inside and outside the pocket that give SMU a foundation to build around.

What makes SMU’s quarterback situation even more enviable is the addition of transfer Tyler Van Dyke, providing elite-level insurance if Jennings misses any time.

The Transfer Portal Has Been SMU’s Secret Weapon

The Mustangs didn’t just dip their toes in the transfer waters—they dove in headfirst and emerged with game-changers.

While other programs scramble to patch roster holes, SMU strategically targeted and secured players who fit specific needs:

  • Zion Nelson (OT): An instant starter who will anchor the offensive line
  • Rocket Rahimi (S): The former San Jose State standout adds physicality to the secondary
  • Terry Webb (DL): Fills the gap left by Elijah Roberts with immediate pass-rush potential
  • Marcellus Barnes (CB): Provides depth and versatility to an already talented secondary

What’s most impressive about SMU’s portal strategy is their focus on quality over quantity. The coaching staff has identified specific needs and targeted experienced players who fit their culture and systems.

The portal additions don’t just fill gaps—they potentially upgrade positions of strength.

The 2024 Season Wasn’t A Fluke. It Was A Warning.

SMU’s success last season wasn’t luck or scheduling magic.

The numbers tell the story of a legitimately balanced team:

  • Perfect 8-0 in regular season ACC play
  • 429.5 yards per game of total offense (261.9 passing, 167.6 rushing)
  • Held opponents to 326 yards per game
  • Reached the College Football Playoff in Year One
  • Lost a nail-biter to Clemson in the ACC Championship

The most frightening part for ACC opponents? This team is still ascending.

While detractors point to losses against Power Four competition, they conveniently ignore how close those games were and how much returning talent SMU brings back for 2025.

“What this team accomplished in their first ACC season can’t be overstated. Going undefeated in conference play and reaching the playoff showed that SMU belongs at this level of competition.” — College Football Analyst.

The honeymoon is over—it’s time for SMU to take the next step.

Three Areas Where SMU Must Improve To Win The ACC

No team is perfect, and SMU’s coaching staff knows exactly where improvement is needed.

  1. Defensive consistency against elite competition: The Mustangs defense showed flashes of brilliance in 2024 but faltered in crucial moments against Clemson and Penn State. The addition of Terry Webb and a revamped defensive line aims to generate more consistent pressure without excessive blitzing.
  2. In-game adjustments against top-tier opponents: The coaching staff struggled to counter-punch effectively when the initial game plan encountered resistance in the biggest games. Year Two in the conference should bring better situational awareness and tactical flexibility.
  3. Replacing lost offensive production: With the departure of top rusher Brashard Smith and several key receivers, new playmakers must emerge. LJ Johnson Jr. and transfer Christopher Johnson will lead the backfield, while Jordan Hudson looks to become the primary receiving threat.

If these three areas see improvement, SMU will have a legitimate national championship upside.

The 2025 Schedule: Where The Games Will Be Won And Lost

Not all conference schedules are created equal, and SMU’s 2025 slate offers landmines and opportunities.

The critical matchups that will define the season:

  • at Clemson: The ultimate measuring stick against the conference standard-bearer
  • vs. Miami: A home showdown that could determine ACC Championship positioning
  • vs. Louisville: Another home test against a program on a similar trajectory
  • at Baylor (Non-Conference): An opportunity to make a statement against a regional Power Four opponent

Industry projections set SMU’s win total around 9.5 for the season, making them an enticing “over” bet for those who believe the program’s momentum will continue.

The most favorable aspect? SMU avoids Florida State and North Carolina, potentially easing their path through conference play.

Rhett Lashlee Is Building A Sustainable Powerhouse On The Hilltop

Culture doesn’t happen by accident.

Head coach Rhett Lashlee enters his fourth season at SMU with growing national recognition for both his offensive genius and program-building abilities. His offensive system produced a perfectly balanced attack in 2024 (261.9 passing yards and 167.6 rushing yards per game) while remaining adaptable to his personnel.

One of Lashlee’s greatest strengths is maximizing what his players do best. His offensive system presents complex problems for opponents while remaining clear and executable for the players within it.

What’s next for the coaching staff is proving they can:

  • Out-scheme the ACC’s elite coaches
  • Make faster in-game adjustments
  • Develop the next wave of playmakers
  • Convert recruiting momentum into on-field results

The foundation has been laid—now it’s about building a sustainable program that competes for championships annually.

The Bottom Line: SMU Is No Longer Just Happy To Be Here

The days of SMU being considered a novelty in the ACC are officially over.

The Mustangs transformed from curious conference newcomers to legitimate title contenders in just one season. With Jennings returning at quarterback, strategic transfer additions, and a year of invaluable experience, SMU enters 2025 with the talent and confidence to compete with anyone.

What’s happening at SMU isn’t just a one-year wonder. The infrastructure, talent, and coaching are clearly in place for sustained success at this level. The question isn’t whether they belong—it’s how high they can climb.

For a program with SMU’s rich history now writing exciting new chapters, the 2025 season represents an opportunity to prove that their ACC debut was just the beginning.

The Mustangs aren’t building for the future—their time is now.

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The Chess Match: Two Coaches, Two Programs, One Bowl Game Collision – SMU at Penn State

Mark Haines on December 20, 2024

Nobody expected SMU’s Rhett Lashlee to pull off what might be college football’s most remarkable transformation story of 2023.

In just three years, Lashlee has engineered what old-guard football minds considered impossible:

  • Transforming a middling SMU program into an 11-2 powerhouse
  • Dominating their inaugural ACC season with swagger and style
  • Accumulating a jaw-dropping 21-3 conference record that has athletic directors nationwide reaching for their checkbooks

The Established Empire Watches

Meanwhile, in Happy Valley, James Franklin continues orchestrating Penn State’s methodical march toward college football supremacy. His Nittany Lions mirror their coach: disciplined, relentless, and utterly predictable in their pursuit of excellence.

A Tale of Two Systems

What makes this bowl matchup fascinating isn’t just the clash of programs – it’s the statistical symmetry that shouldn’t exist:

The offenses move like twins separated at birth: SMU churning out 443.1 yards per game, Penn State barely ahead at 448.6. But defense? That’s where Franklin’s philosophy reveals itself in cold, hard numbers. His unit surrenders just 282.1 yards per game, while SMU’s gives up 326.1.

The X-Factor That Changes Everything

Here’s where the story takes its dramatic turn. SMU lost quarterback Preston Stone, the architectural centerpiece of their offensive explosion. Into this vacuum steps Kevin Jennings, talented but untested, facing a trial by fire against one of college football’s most sophisticated defensive machines.

The Ground Game Chess Match

Football often reveals its true nature in the running game, and here’s where the contrasts sharpen:

  • SMU rides Brashard Smith’s explosive 1,270 yards and 14 touchdowns
  • Penn State counters with a two-headed monster: Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, combining for over 1,600 yards of controlled destruction.

The Final Act

The smart money sees Penn State emerging victorious, 31-17, not because they’re the better program—but because they’re the more complete program at this precise moment in time. The loss of Stone isn’t just about missing a quarterback; it’s about missing the keystone of an offensive architecture that took three years to perfect.

Ultimately, this game might tell us less about who wins and more about where college football is heading. Lashlee’s SMU represents the bold new challengers, while Franklin’s Penn State embodies the power of systematic, year-over-year excellence. And that’s the real story worth watching.

Game at a Glance

Game: SMU at Penn State

Time: Noon Eastern

TV: TNT

 SMUPenn State
Record11-211-2
Points Per Game38.5434.38
Points Allowed20.8516.38
Total Offense443.1 ypg448.6 ypg
Total Defense326.1 ypg282.1 ypg
SRS Rating16.66 (8th)17.20 (6th)
Strength of Schedule2.51 (49th)4.20 (30th)

Key Personnel Changes

SMU Impact Losses:

  • QB Preston Stone (3,471 yards, 27 TDs, 9 INTs)
  • Kevin Jennings steps in (3,050 yards, 22 TDs, 8 INTs)
  • CB Jahari Rogers
  • DL Omari Abor

Penn State Impact Losses:

  • QB Beau Pribula (275 yards, 5 TDs, 242 rushing yards)
  • Drew Allar remains the starter (2,894 yards, 21 TDs, 7 INTs)

Key Matchups

Quarterback Battle:
Kevin Jennings must lead SMU’s offense against Penn State’s elite defense that allows only 16.38 points per game

Ground Game:

  • SMU: Brashard Smith (1,270 yards, 5.9 avg, 14 TDs)
  • Penn State: Nicholas Singleton (838 yards, 6.4 avg, 7 TDs) and Kaytron Allen (822 yards, 4.8 avg, 6 TDs)

Defensive Edge:
Penn State’s defense allows only 103.6 rushing yards per game and has accumulated 33 sacks.

Final Score:

Penn State 31 SMU 17

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Coaches Hot Seat is Targeting Winners for Week 10

Mark Haines on October 31, 2024

Okay, folks, get ready. It’s that time of the week again when we dive headfirst into the chaotic, beautiful mess that is college football. Friday’s episode of the Targeting Winners podcast (available on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts) is coming at you hot, and trust me, you don’t want to miss this. They’ll be talking Xs and Os, dissecting matchups, and uncovering those hidden gems that’ll have you cashing in come Saturday.

Today, I’ll share my weekend bets and prep with you.  I’m not just throwing darts at a board. I’m breaking down film, analyzing stats, and getting into the nitty-gritty.

This week, I’ve got three games I’m reviewing: San Diego State at Boise State, Ohio State at Penn State, and Pitt at SMU. We’re talking potential upsets, high-scoring shootouts, and maybe even a bit of old-fashioned smashmouth football. So read my breakdown below, make your picks, and fire up Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts on Friday afternoon. Then, get ready to ride the wave with us.

San Diego State at (15) Boise State

The San Diego State Aztecs (3-4) will face the No. 15 Boise State Broncos (6-1) in a Mountain West Conference matchup on Friday, November 1, 2024, at Albertsons Stadium in Boise, Idaho14. The game will kick off at 8:00 p.m. ET and be broadcast on Fox Sports 14.

Betting Odds and Predictions

Boise State is heavily favored in this matchup:

  • Spread: Boise State -23.5
  • Moneyline: Boise State -2439, San Diego State +1096
  • Over/Under: 57.5 points14

The College Football Network’s Football Playoff Meter (CFN FPM) has a slightly tighter spread of Boise State -18.54.

Key Factors

Home Field Advantage: Boise State has a strong home field advantage, but San Diego State has won at Albertsons Stadium in the past (2018 and 2012).

Head-to-Head Record: This will be the 10th meeting between the two teams, with Boise State holding a slight 5-4 advantage.

Recent Performance: Boise State has won every game where it has been favored this year, while San Diego State has failed to win as an underdog.

Against the Spread (ATS): San Diego State is 3-2 ATS as an underdog, while Boise State has failed to cover three times as a double-digit favorite.

Weather: The forecast calls for temperatures around 42 degrees with a chance of showers, which could impact game performance.

Outlook by Team

San Diego State:

  • New head coach Sean Lewis wants to improve last year’s 4-8 record.
  • The Aztecs have an 8.3% winning probability for this game.
  • Their season outlook improves after this game, with better winning probabilities against upcoming opponents.

Boise State:

  • The Broncos have a 91.7% winning probability for this game.
  • They are on track for a potential Group of Five spot in the College Football Playoff, and their remaining games have high winning probabilities.

Analysis

Okay, you’ve got this classic David vs. Goliath scenario brewing in Boise. San Diego State, the scrappy underdog, is rolling into town with a new coach and something to prove. They’re like the Oakland A’s of college football, trying to outsmart the system with grit and a lot of hustle. But then there’s Boise State, the perennial powerhouse, the kings of the blue turf. They’re the New York Yankees, used to winning and expected to dominate.

But here’s the thing: Boise State has this weird quirk. When they’re supposed to win big, they sometimes… don’t. It’s like they get bored or something. And San Diego State? Well, they’ve been defying expectations all season. They’re like that one stock you didn’t think would make a comeback, but suddenly it’s surging. Nobody saw it coming.

You might think this is just another game, but it’s more than that. It’s a clash of cultures, a test of wills. Can San Diego State, with its new coach and underdog mentality, pull off the upset? Or will Boise State crush their dreams with its home-field advantage and history of dominance? It’s a high-stakes game, and the tension is thicker than the Idaho potato soup they serve in the stadium.

Prediction

The air crackles with anticipation. The Broncos, bathed in the eerie glow of the blue turf, exude an aura of invincibility. But beneath the surface, a tremor of doubt. The Aztecs, eyes locked on their prey, carry the quiet confidence of a wolf pack circling its quarry.

This is not a game of mere statistics and spreadsheets. It’s a battle of souls, a collision of destinies. Boise State, the established power, yearns to maintain its grip on the throne. The hungry challenger, San Diego State, fights for recognition and a place at the table.

The final whistle blows. The scoreboard tells a story of Boise State’s dominance: 35-14. But the numbers don’t reveal the whole truth. They don’t show the fierce struggle, the moments of brilliance, the echoes of what could have been. San Diego State, though defeated, leaves the field with heads held high. They have pushed the giants to the brink, proven their mettle, and earned respect that transcends the final score.

Game 2: (3) Ohio State at (7) Penn State

No. 3 Ohio State (7-1) will face No. 7 Penn State (7-0) in a crucial Big Ten matchup on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Beaver Stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania. The game will kick off at noon ET and be broadcast on Fox.

Betting Odds and Predictions

The betting odds and predictions for this game are notably close:

  • Spread: SMU -7.5
  • Moneyline: SMU -340, Pittsburgh +270
  • Over/Under: 59 points

Interestingly, the College Football Network’s Football Playoff Meter (CFN FPM) slightly favors Penn State with a spread of Penn State -1.5.

Key Factors

  • Recent History: Ohio State has won the last seven meetings between these teams, indicating a psychological edge.
  • Home Field Advantage: Penn State will benefit from playing at Beaver Stadium, which could be a significant factor.
  • Against the Spread (ATS): Both teams are 3-4 ATS this season, suggesting neither has a clear advantage in covering the spread.
  • Recent Performance: Ohio State has failed to cover in their last two games, including a narrow loss to Oregon.
  • Weather: The forecast calls for partly cloudy conditions with mild temperatures, which shouldn’t significantly impact the game.

Outlook by Team

Ohio State:

  • The Buckeyes have a 47.5% winning probability for this game.
  • A win would keep them in contention for the Big Ten Championship and the College Football Playoff.
  • Their remaining schedule looks favorable, with high winning probabilities against most opponents.

Penn State:

  • The Nittany Lions have a 52.5% winning probability for this game.
  • A win could potentially secure their spot in the College Football Playoff and the Big Ten title game.
  • Their remaining schedule appears relatively easy, with high winning probabilities against all opponents.

Analysis

This game is a real barnburner. Ohio State, the big, bad Buckeyes, strolling into Happy Valley like they own the place. They’re the Goldman Sachs of college football, all about tradition and pedigree. But Penn State? They’re the hungry upstarts, the Robinhood traders trying to disrupt the establishment.

Now, on paper, Ohio State should have this in the bag. They’ve got the history, the talent, the whole nine yards. But something’s not quite right. They’ve been stumbling lately, like a thoroughbred with a pulled hamstring. And Penn State? They’re playing with a fire in their belly, a chip on their shoulder. They’re like that meme stock, GameStop, ready to explode.

But here’s the kicker: Penn State has this weird thing about pressure. It’s like they get stage fright when the spotlight’s on. And Ohio State? Well, they’re used to the big stage. They thrive on it. It’s like they’re playing with house money.

This game is not just about X’s and O’s. It’s about psychology, about who wants it more. With their home crowd and underdog mentality, can Penn State pull off the upset? Or will Ohio State silence the doubters with their championship pedigree and ability to perform under pressure? It’s a high-stakes game, folks, and the tension is thicker than a Philly cheesesteak.

Prediction

This is not merely a contest of athletic prowess. It’s a clash of wills, a battle for supremacy. Hungry for victory, Penn State seeks to break the chains of history. Ohio State, the reigning king, fights to preserve its legacy.

The final whistle echoes through the valley. The scoreboard illuminates the night: Penn State 24, Ohio State 21. The upset is complete. The Nittany Lions have roared to victory, their hearts and spirit carrying them through the storm. Ohio State, wounded but not broken, retreats into the night, knowing that the battle for dominance has just begun.

Game 3: Pitt @ SMU

No. 18 Pittsburgh (7-0, 3-0 ACC) will face No. 20 SMU (7-1, 4-0 ACC) in a crucial ACC matchup on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in University Park, Texas—the game broadcast on the ACC Network.

Betting Odds and Predictions

The betting odds for this game favor SMU:

  • Spread: SMU -7.5
  • Moneyline: SMU -340, Pittsburgh +270
  • Over/Under: 59 points

Interestingly, the College Football Network’s Football Playoff Meter (CFN FPM) sees the game as a “pick’em”.

Key Factors

Historical Record: SMU leads the all-time series 3-2-1, with their last meeting in 2012.

Recent Performance: Pittsburgh is undefeated at 7-0, while SMU has a strong 7-1 record.

Against the Spread (ATS): Pittsburgh has been excellent ATS at 6-1, including 2-0 as an underdog. SMU has failed to cover three times as a favorite this season.

Weather: The forecast calls for rainy conditions, which could impact the game plan for both teams.

Quarterback Play: SMU’s switch to Kevin Jennings at quarterback has recently improved their performance.

Outlook by Team

Pittsburgh:

  • The Panthers have a 50.6% winning probability for this game.
  • They’ve won many close games this season, suggesting luck and resilience.
  • Their defense has been opportunistic, with three pick-sixes in their last game against Syracuse.

SMU:

  • The Mustangs have a 49.4% winning probability for this game.
  • They’ve shown consistent improvement, especially since changing quarterbacks.
  • SMU is coming off a game with six turnovers, which is likely an anomaly.

Analysis

In this matchup, we have two overperforming squads defying preseason predictions, each with a unique storyline. Pittsburgh, sitting undefeated, has won a series of nail-biters, showing grit but perhaps testing the bounds of luck. Conversely, SMU has been on a steady upward trajectory, bolstered by a passionate home crowd that could be a game-changer.

Key Factors to Watch:

Turnover Battle: Both teams have recently emerged from turnover-heavy games that were borderline chaotic. But volatility doesn’t tend to linger; we’re likely to see a reversion to the mean here. This could give an edge to whichever team capitalizes on each opportunity.

SMU’s Dual-Threat QB: Pittsburgh’s defense hasn’t faced a genuine dual-threat quarterback, which will test their ability to handle both the pass and the scramble. SMU’s quarterback, Jennings, brings a dynamic quality that could break open Pittsburgh’s defensive schemes.

Weather Impact: Forecasts call for rain, which often turns passing into a slippery gamble. In such conditions, expect a heavy reliance on the ground game, potentially increasing the chance of turnovers, fumbles, and short-field opportunities.

Prediction

While Pittsburgh has proven itself resilient in close encounters, SMU’s home-field advantage and steadily improving roster could tilt the scales. Jennings and the Mustangs’ offense should be capable of pressuring Pittsburgh’s defense in ways they haven’t yet experienced this season. Given a return to average turnover rates and SMU’s balanced approach, they look positioned to edge out the Panthers.

Score Prediction:

SMU 31, Pittsburgh 24

This forecast aligns with the current betting odds, reflecting the likely tightness of the contest. With the potential for rain to stymie offensive flow, the game should settle under the 59-point over/under, as weather conditions push teams to lean more on the ground game and conservative strategies.

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Friday Night Lights, College Football Preview: Upsets Brewing, Showdowns Looming, and Swagger Overflowing

Mark Haines on September 6, 2024

BYU and SMU Collide in a Big 12-ACC Showdown That’ll Leave You Buzzing

A Short Week, High Stakes, and a Whole Lotta Texas Swagger

Dallas, baby. Where else would you want to kick off a Friday night college football fiesta? This ain’t your grandpa’s BYU-SMU matchup, folks. We’ve got Big 12 ambition clashing with ACC aspirations, all under the dazzling Friday night lights.

BYU: The Cougars Ain’t Kitten Around

Kalani Sitake’s crew rolls into town with a swagger that says, “We’re Big 12 now, y’all.” They steamrolled Southern Illinois, but this isn’t Carbondale. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff looked sharp in Week 1, but can he sling it against a real defense? And let’s talk about that BYU run game – it’s like a two-headed monster with LJ Martin and Hinckley Ropati. SMU’s defense better be ready to rumble.

Sitake’s got his eye on:

  • SMU’s quarterback carousel: They’ve got two dudes back there, and Sitake’s defense needs to be ready for anything.
  • Finishing drives: The Cougars left some points on the field last week. That won’t fly against a hungry Mustangs squad.
  • Special teams: It’s not glamorous, but those return yards matter. Sitake wants to see some juice.

SMU: Mustangs Lookin’ to Gallop

Rhett Lashlee’s Mustangs are the Vegas favorites, and they’re chomping at the bit to show the ACC what they’re made of. They squeaked by Nevada, then ran wild against Houston Christian. Now, they’re facing a real test in BYU.

Lashlee’s got his mind on:

  • Picking a QB: Is it Preston Stone or Kevin Jennings? Lashlee needs to make a call, and he needs to make it fast.
  • Balance: The Mustangs’ ground game was dominant last week, but they can’t forget about the passing attack.
  • BYU’s multiple threats: This ain’t no one-trick pony offense. Lashlee’s defense needs to be prepared for anything.
  • History: SMU is 0-4 all-time against BYU. Time to break that streak.

The Hot Seat Sizzle

Neither coach is sweating bullets yet, but this game could set the tone for their seasons. A BYU win would send shockwaves through the Big 12, while SMU needs a victory to prove they belong in the ACC.

So grab your popcorn, folks. This Friday night showdown in Dallas is going to be a good one.

Prediction: It will be close, but I’m giving the edge to SMU. They’re at home, they’re motivated, and they’ve got something to prove. Mustangs win a nail-biter, 31-28.

Hoosiers Look to Roll Against Leathernecks in Lopsided Matchup

Bloomington, Indiana: Where the expectations are sky-high, but the schedule… well, let’s just say it’s a bit softer than advertised.

Indiana: FCS Foes, No Sweat

Curt Cignetti arrived in Bloomington preaching a winning culture. He even got off to a hot start, snagging a W in his debut. But now, instead of gearing up for a Louisville showdown, they’re hosting Western Illinois. Look, the Hoosiers are supposed to dominate this one. They’ve got a 14-game winning streak against FCS teams, and Western Illinois is riding a 25-game losing skid. This ain’t David vs Goliath; it’s more like Goliath vs. Goliath’s little cousin who’s still learning to tie his shoes.

Cignetti’s got his mind on:

  • Keeping the starters healthy: This is a tune-up game, folks. There’s no need to risk anyone for a blowout.
  • Tayven Jackson’s debut: If the score gets out of hand, it’s time for the redshirt sophomore QB to get some reps. He’s the future, after all.
  • Not looking ahead: Easy to say, harder to do when you’re facing a team that gave up 700 yards last week.

Western Illinois: Leathernecks Looking for a Miracle

Bless their hearts, the Leathernecks are in a tough spot. They’re facing a Big Ten team on the road and haven’t won a game since October 2021. This is the kind of matchup where you hope to keep it respectable, maybe force a turnover or two, and pray for a miracle.

The Coaching Landscape

Cignetti’s still in the honeymoon phase, building his program and establishing his culture. This game is more about fine-tuning and giving younger players a chance to shine. For Western Illinois’ coach, Myers Hendrickson, every game is a chance to build towards that elusive victory and turn the tide for his program.

The Elephant in the Room

Indiana fans were looking forward to Power Five opponent, Louisville. Instead, they got Western Illinois. This scheduling change has raised eyebrows and left a sour taste in some mouths.

Prediction: Indiana wins big. Like, really big. 52-10. The only drama will be how long the starters play and whether Tayven Jackson gets his moment in the spotlight.

Friday Night Lights, Big Ten – ACC Style (With a Dash of Southern Charm)

This ain’t your typical Friday night lights matchup. We’ve got the Duke Blue Devils, fresh off a win in Manny Diaz’s debut, heading north to Evanston to tangle with the Northwestern Wildcats. And let me tell ya, there’s more intrigue here than a season of “Friday Night Lights” – Coach Taylor would be proud.

Northwestern: Breaking the Streak, Building a Legacy

David Braun’s got the reins at Northwestern, and he’s aiming to do more than break their five-game losing streak against Duke. He’s looking to build a legacy. Breaking that streak is a damn good start. They squeaked by UTEP in Week 1, but can they handle Duke’s high-flying offense? QB Mike Wright needs to hold onto the ball (two fumbles last week, yikes!), and that defense better be ready for a shootout.

Duke: New Coach, New QB, Same Old Swagger

Manny Diaz has brought a Texas-sized swagger to Durham, and QB Maalik Murphy is slinging it like he’s back in the Lone Star State. They rolled over Elon in Week 1, but Northwestern’s defense is a different beast. Can Murphy keep the magic going on the road? And let’s not forget about that Duke defense – they racked up eight sacks last week. Northwestern’s O-line better bring their A-game.

The Hot Seat Sizzle

Braun’s in his first full season, so the seat’s not exactly scorching yet, but a win against an ACC opponent would sure make a statement. As for Diaz, he’s got that new coach glow, but a loss here could dim the lights a bit.

X-Factors

  • The Weather: It’s gonna be rainy in Evanston. Advantage: Northwestern’s ground game.
  • Turnovers: Both teams need to protect the ball. A sloppy game could swing the momentum.
  • Home Field Advantage: Northwestern’s got the crowd on their side. Will it be enough?

Prediction: This one’s gonna be a nail-biter. I’m leaning towards Northwestern in an upset. They’re hungry, they’re at home, and that rain could play right into their hands. Wildcats win a close one, 20-17.

Schedule – Friday, September 6

All Times are PDT

BYU at SMU

Time: 4:00 PM

Watch on: ESPN2

Location: Gerald J. Ford Stadium

Western Illinois vs Indiana

Time: 4:00 PM

Watch on: Big Ten Network

Location: Memorial Stadium (Bloomington, IN)

Duke vs Northwestern

Time: 6:00 PM

Watch on: Fox Sports 1

Location: Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium

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2024 ACC Pre-Season Meeting of the Mascots

Jason Lucero on September 5, 2024

Meeting Minutes:

Duke Blue Devil:

As this year’s chair, I call the meeting to order. The first order of business is to welcome the latest members to the conference, Cal, Stanford, and Southern Methodist University. Then we’ll get onto pending litigation. Put the shillelagh down, Leprechaun. You know our policy on weapons in the committee room. 

Notre Dame Leprechaun:

I was fully clothed at the time of the accident! Any allegation to the contrary is slander!  It was not a full-size bus. That’s a gross exaggeration. It was a minibus, and I’ll have no witty remarks regarding my stature!

Duke Blue Devil:

Duly noted Leprechaun. The chair recognizes The Demon Deacon of Wake Forest.

Demon Deacon of Wake Forest:

I object to the presence of Cal and Stanford in our conference.  Do I have to say it? They’re from the West! The home of sin and perdition. This is the Atlantic Coast Conference.  Having Pacific Coast teams among us is wrong! It’s contrary to nature! It’s Blaspheme, that’s what it is!

Hokie Bird of Virginia Tech:

Give it a rest, deacon. You went 4 and 8 last year. Times are changing.

Duke Blue Devil:

The chair recognizes the Clemson Tiger.  Thank you for raising your paw.

Clemson Tiger:

Yeah, man. Oski the Bear. I get that—a bear. I’m a tiger, and he’s a bear. But what the hell is going on with Stanford?  A tree? You come in here as a tree?

Stanford Tree:

I have googly eyes! I’m both relatable and ironic!

Clemson Tiger:

No man. That’s abstract. You got to be something real. Like a tiger, for example. People understand tigers.

Ramblin’ Reck of Georgia Tech

I’m with Syracuse. Nobody likes concepts. I’m a wreck, a wrecked car. It’s a thing. People like wrecked cars!

Notre Dame Leprechaun

I rest my fecking case.

Duke Blue Devil

Language Leprechaun!

Otto the Orange of Syracuse:

I protest that reasoning! I’m orange! I’m not an orange. I’m not the orange. I’m just orange.  I’m a concept. A tree is a concept too! You all need to open your minds!

Duke Blue Devil

6-7 last year Syracuse. You might consider running the ball. The chair recognizes Mrs. Wuf, from North Carolina State.

Mrs. Wuf of NC State

I rise to speak to the issue of academic excellence. Our friends from the west come with august records of academic achievement.  Some among us have allowed our standards to lapse.

Osceola and Renegade  – Florida State

     Here we go again, everyone hating on Florida.

Sebastian the Ibis – University of Miami

Excellence has a price. Sometimes the students have to pay it. That’s all I’m saying.

Duke Blue Devil

Put out the cigar Sebastian. There is no smoking in the committee room! The chair recognizes the Wahoo.

The Wahoo – University of Virginia

Let’s get down to the real issue here, competitiveness.  I’m talking TV ratings and NIL. Cash in hand! Daddy needs a new stadium. Who is to say these new teams can run with the ACC?

Duke Blue Devil

Okay. Uh, for Southern Methodist University we have Peruna the Mustang. Can you speak to that question?

Peruna of SMU

Thank you Blue Devil. It’s a pleasure to be here. We went 9-0 last year, and won our division. We deserve to play in the ACC.  

The Hokie Bird of Virginia Tech

You were in the AAC! You beat Tulsa, Temple, and the University of East Carolina.  If your schedule was any lighter you’d be playing high school teams!

Duke Blue Devil

Settle down everyone!  Settle down! Oskie? Any comment? 

Oski the Bear – Cal

We’re rebuilding. We have a great team this year and we’re looking forward to returning to the Rose Bowl!

The Hokie Bird of Virginia Tech

The last time you were in the Rose Bowl was 1959. When are you going to be done rebuilding, the year 3000?

Ms. Wuf – North Carolina State.

     I find Oski’s cardigan very attractive.

Duke Blue Devil

Ms. Wuf, where is Mr. Wuf today?

Ms. Wuf

We’re exploring our sexuality through an open relationship. He’s up chasing a Husky in Connecticut. Oski? Are you into experimentation?

The Demon Deacon of Wake Forest

Abomination! We cannot have inter-conference, inter-species, intermingling! I object! I object! I object!

Duke Blue Devil.

4 and 8 last season. Maybe a little less from the pulpit and a little more from your backfield. Stanford?

The Stanford Tree

We have twenty Nobel laurites on our faculty!

The Clemson Tiger

You went 3 and 9, second worst in our division!

The Stanford Tree

Our band is extremely unconventional!

Duke Blue Devil

Settle down everyone, settle down!  Well, it’s not like we have a choice in the matter. They’re in the conference now and that’s that.  Oskie, we’ll give you the last word.

Oski the Bear – Cal

Thank you, thank you. Well, it’s no secret that we miss the Pac- 10.  We miss bus rides up and down the coast, playing the other schools in the West as the sun set over the Pacific. I guess the only comfort we can find is that no matter how stupid it is for us to play in the ACC, how illogical, how ridiculous it is… at least Stanford has to do it too.

Duke Blue Devil

Quiet everyone, quiet! Leprechaun! Are you peeing in the closet?

The Leprechaun of Notre Dame

I had a late breakfast.

Duke Blue Devil

Hey Clemson! Florida, and Florida State. Sit down. The meeting isn’t over. Where do you think you’re going?

The Clemson Tiger

The SEC is having a tailgate.  We thought we would stop by and do some networking.

Sebastian the Ibis – University of Miami

This is fun and all, but keep one word in mind going forward: “realignment.” 

The Duke Blue Devil

Meeting adjourned!

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