The SMU Mustangs are coming off one of the more successful seasons in recent history and with renewed excitement on the Hilltop; they will be looking to compete for a conference championship in their final season of the Conference USA. June Jones is heading into his 5th season as Head Coach of the Mustangs, taking them from a one win team to eight wins last year is a huge improvement from the previous coaches.
The Mustangs look to be a better team offensively this year with the leadership of transfer quarterback Garret Gilbert and Senor running back Zach Line, Who is one of the conference’s top rushers. While the quarterback and running back positions look to be strengths this year, there will be some new faces at the receiver position, but with improved QB play, they could still make a name for themselves in Jones high powered offense.
The defense is a very experienced group this year and is anchored by senior defensive end Margus Hunt. Look for the defense to keep the mustangs in control and pull out some surprises this season. This unit could be the difference of the Mustangs being in the driver’s seat for a conference championship and in the passenger seat. There are two key games for the Mustangs with Houston and Tulsa, both of which will be at home on the Hilltop.
Excitement will be high this year for SMU with the impending move to the Big East, and I am sure the players would love to leave the conference as champions and start that winning tradition before the move next season. SMU will definitely be a team to keep an eye on this year; they could surprise a lot of people and be better than expected.