SMU Mustangs Season Opener and Potential Holiday Bowl Matchup Preview
The SMU Mustangs are gearing up for their season opener at Gerald J. Ford Stadium against East Texas A&M. According to Brett McMurphy's preseason bowl projections, SMU could potentially face Arizona State in the Holiday Bowl in San Diego, California. The team has a history with the Holiday Bowl, notably the 1980 edition where BYU defeated SMU in a thrilling game.
With high expectations for the upcoming season, SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee sees a lot of potential in his team. While McMurphy's projections do not include SMU in the College Football Playoff this season, he does outline the potential matchups for the playoff rounds and the National Championship game.
The first round of the playoffs includes matchups like Boise State vs. Clemson and Miami vs. Alabama. The quarterfinals feature games at the Cotton Bowl, Orange Bowl, Rose Bowl, and Sugar Bowl. The semifinals will take place at the Fiesta Bowl and Peach Bowl, leading up to the National Championship at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.
SMU's season kicks off this Saturday against East Texas A&M on ACC Network at 8 p.m. CT. The team is looking to make a statement and live up to the high expectations set for them this season.