SMU\’s Athletics Program: A Force to be Reckoned With

Source www.smu.edu

Greetings, sports enthusiasts! Ready to delve into the world of SMU Athletics, where excellence reigns supreme? Hold on tight as we take you on an exhilarating journey through the Mustangs\’ remarkable athletic achievements. From dominating on the gridiron to soaring on the basketball court, SMU\’s teams have consistently set the bar high, showcasing their unwavering commitment to athletic prowess. Get ready to witness the passion, determination, and exceptional athleticism that have made SMU a force to be reckoned with in the world of college sports.

SMU Football: A Comprehensive History

Pre-SMU Days and the Odyssey to Gridiron Glory

The origins of SMU football can be traced back to the early 20th century, before the university\’s official founding. In 1915, a group of students and alumni from Southern Methodist University (SMU) formed the \”Pony Express\” football team, playing exhibition games against local universities. The team\’s initial success garnered support for the establishment of a varsity football program at the school, which commenced in 1925.

During the pre-SMU era, the football team played as an independent, not affiliated with any conference. Despite this, they achieved remarkable success, winning two Southwest Conference championships in 1928 and 1931. The team also captured the Cotton Bowl in 1934, defeating TCU 20-14 in a thrilling contest.

In 1939, SMU\’s football program received a further boost with the formation of the Texas Intercollegiate Athletic Association (TIAA). The TIAA brought together several colleges and universities in Texas, including SMU, to form a competitive athletic conference. SMU quickly became a force within the TIAA, winning the conference championship in 1941 and 1944.

The pre-SMU era of football was a period of significant growth and success for the fledgling program. The team established a winning tradition and a loyal fan base, laying the foundation for SMU\’s future dominance in collegiate football.

SMU Football: The Golden Era

The Southwest Conference Powerhouse

During the 1930s and 1940s, SMU football experienced an unprecedented era of dominance, establishing itself as a powerhouse within the Southwest Conference. From 1935 to 1945, the Mustangs claimed an astonishing seven Southwest Conference championships in just 11 years. Their success extended to the postseason, as they made nine bowl game appearances during this period, emerging victorious in six of them.

This golden era was fueled by an exceptional roster of talented players who etched their names in college football history. The most notable among them was Heisman Trophy winner Doak Walker, a running back who revolutionized the game with his elusive style and unparalleled scoring prowess. Other standout players included Bobby Layne, the legendary quarterback who went on to a Hall of Fame career in the NFL, and Kyle Rote, a versatile all-American who also excelled as a punter.

The Mustangs\’ dominance was built upon a formidable offense that boasted an explosive running game and a dynamic passing attack. Walker\’s unparalleled ability to create space and score from anywhere on the field made him the centerpiece of a high-scoring unit that consistently overwhelmed opponents. Quarterback Layne, with his powerful arm and quick release, was a master of the short passing game and excelled at converting big plays.

Complementing the offensive firepower, the SMU defense was equally formidable. Led by All-American lineman Walt Grothaus, the Mustangs\’ defense was known for its physicality and ability to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Their stingy performances played a crucial role in securing victories and minimizing the damage inflicted by opponents.

The golden era of SMU football came to an end with the outbreak of World War II. Many of the star players enlisted in the military, depleting the team\’s talent pool. However, the legacy of this era continues to resonate today, serving as a testament to the program\’s rich history and unwavering pursuit of excellence.

The Death Penalty

The NCAA imposed the \”death penalty\” on SMU\’s football program in 1987 after a thorough investigation uncovered severe violations of NCAA rules. The severity of these violations was unprecedented, leading to the program\’s complete suspension from competition for the 1987 and 1988 seasons. This drastic punishment is the most severe ever handed down to an NCAA football program and is commonly referred to as the \”death penalty.\”

The NCAA\’s investigation revealed that SMU had committed numerous infractions, including the payment of illegal benefits to players, improper contacts between coaches and recruits, and academic improprieties. These violations had been ongoing for several years and involved multiple coaches and administrators. In addition to the suspension from competition, the NCAA also imposed a two-year ban on SMU from participating in bowl games and television broadcasts.

The imposition of the death penalty had a devastating impact on SMU\’s football program. The program lost many of its top players, who transferred to other schools to remain eligible for competition. The coaching staff was also decimated, as several coaches resigned or were fired in the wake of the scandal. The loss of talent and leadership resulted in SMU fielding a team that was unable to compete at a high level upon its return to competition in 1989.

The death penalty had a lasting impact on SMU\’s football program. The program struggled to regain its former glory and has not won a major bowl game since 1984. The NCAA\’s investigation and subsequent punishment sent a clear message that severe violations of NCAA rules will not be tolerated and will be met with severe consequences.

SMU Football: The Rebirth

June Jones Era

In 1998, SMU hired June Jones as their head coach, marking a significant turning point in the program\’s history. Jones, known for his innovative run-and-shoot offense, quickly implemented his system and instilled a winning mentality into the team.

In 2000, Jones led SMU to a remarkable 12-1 record, the best in the school\’s history since 1982. The Mustangs earned a No. 25 ranking in the AP Poll and captured the Conference USA West Division title. However, they fell short of a perfect season in the Conference USA Championship Game, losing to Louisville.

Despite the setback, SMU continued to make strides under Jones\’ leadership. In 2003, the Mustangs won the GMAC Bowl, their first bowl victory since 1984. Jones\’ offense flourished, producing explosive numbers and making SMU a feared opponent in Conference USA.

Under Jones, SMU football experienced a resurgence. The team\’s success on the field helped to rebuild the program\’s reputation and attract top recruits. Jones\’ innovative offensive approach and unwavering belief in his players played a pivotal role in SMU\’s revival.

Jones left SMU after the 2007 season to become the head coach at Hawaii. He finished his tenure at SMU with a 57-44 record and a legacy that helped to reshape the program\’s future.

SMU Football: Present Day

Recent Success

Southern Methodist University (SMU) football has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years, qualifying for bowl games in four of the past five seasons. This success has been fueled by a number of factors, including a strong recruiting class, a talented coaching staff led by head coach Sonny Dykes, and a renewed sense of enthusiasm among the fan base.

One of the highlights of SMU\’s recent success was the team\’s victory in the 2018 Bahamas Bowl. The Mustangs defeated Florida Atlantic University 55-28 in a game that showcased the team\’s offensive firepower and defensive prowess. The win gave SMU its first bowl victory since 2012 and marked the first time the team had won a bowl game outside of Texas.

In addition to its bowl success, SMU has also made strides in conference play. The Mustangs have finished in the top half of the American Athletic Conference (AAC) standings in each of the past three seasons, including a third-place finish in 2020. This success has been due in large part to the team\’s high-scoring offense, which has ranked among the top 25 in the nation in each of the past three years.

The future looks bright for SMU football. The Mustangs have a strong nucleus of returning players, including All-American wide receiver Rashee Rice and quarterback Tanner Mordecai. The team also has a talented recruiting class coming in, which is expected to help the Mustangs compete for an AAC championship in the near future.

Sonny Dykes Era

Sonny Dykes was hired as SMU\’s head coach in 2018. Dykes, a former offensive coordinator at TCU and California, brought a high-octane offensive approach to SMU. Under Dykes, the Mustangs have been one of the most prolific offenses in the nation, ranking among the top 25 in total offense in each of the past three seasons. Dykes has also led SMU to bowl games in four of his five seasons at the helm.

Dykes\’ success at SMU is due in large part to his ability to develop quarterbacks. He has a track record of success with quarterbacks such as Trevone Boykin at TCU and Davis Mills at Stanford. Under Dykes, SMU quarterbacks Tanner Mordecai and Shane Buechele have both been named AAC Offensive Player of the Year.

Dykes\’ offensive success has helped SMU attract top recruits. The Mustangs have signed top-100 recruits in each of the past four signing classes. This influx of talent has helped SMU compete with the top teams in the AAC.

Dykes is a rising star in the coaching ranks. He is one of the most successful young coaches in the country, and he has SMU football on the rise.