SMU Football: Mustangs Look to Keep Momentum Rolling Into Their Next ACC Test

DALLAS, Texas — SMU football is building momentum at an important point in its 2026 season, and the Mustangs will look to carry that success into another Atlantic Coast Conference matchup. Following a 23–13 victory over Virginia, SMU improved to 5–1 overall and 3–1 in conference play, giving the program another important win as it continues working toward a spot among the ACC’s top teams.

The Mustangs have put together a strong stretch of football, winning three consecutive games after their September loss to Louisville. With conference competition becoming increasingly important, SMU will need to maintain its consistency on both sides of the ball as it prepares for its next challenge.

Kevin Jennings Continues to Lead the Offense

Quarterback Kevin Jennings remains a central part of SMU’s offensive success. Against Virginia, Jennings completed 23 of 36 passes for 246 yards and two touchdowns without throwing an interception. His ability to distribute the football and limit mistakes helped the Mustangs control the game and secure another conference victory.

SMU also received a strong performance from running back Kendrick Raphael, who finished with 124 rushing yards. His production on the ground gave the Mustangs another way to move the ball and helped balance an offense capable of creating opportunities through the air.

That balance will be important moving forward. When SMU can establish its running game while allowing Jennings to make plays through the passing game, opposing defenses face a more difficult challenge. Continuing to execute in both areas could help the Mustangs maintain their offensive rhythm against the remaining teams on their schedule.

Defense Must Continue Delivering

While the offense provided enough production to earn the win over Virginia, SMU’s defense also played an important role. Holding the Cavaliers to 13 points allowed the Mustangs to maintain control and protect their lead throughout the contest.

Defensive consistency will remain a major factor as SMU moves deeper into conference play. The Mustangs cannot afford to rely entirely on their offense to win games, particularly against opponents capable of taking advantage of turnovers and missed assignments.

Creating pressure, limiting explosive plays and getting off the field on third downs will be important priorities. If the defense can continue limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities, SMU will give itself a stronger chance to compete in close games and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on Jennings and the offense.

California Presents Another Conference Challenge

SMU’s next test comes against California on Saturday, Oct. 24, at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas. Kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. CT, giving the Mustangs another opportunity to defend their home field and strengthen their position in the ACC standings. <Cite refs={["turn568336search0","turn339602search8"]}/>

California enters the matchup looking to respond after a difficult loss to Wake Forest. For SMU, the challenge will be to avoid overlooking an opponent that has something to prove. The Mustangs will need to bring the same defensive intensity they showed against Virginia while taking advantage of scoring opportunities when they arise.

Playing at home gives SMU another opportunity to build confidence in front of its fans. The program has established itself as a difficult opponent at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in conference play, and extending that success will be important as the schedule becomes more demanding.

What This Game Means for SMU

The matchup with California represents another opportunity for the Mustangs to demonstrate that they can sustain success throughout the season. With a 5–1 record and three straight victories, SMU has positioned itself well, but the work is far from finished.

Maintaining offensive balance, protecting the football and continuing to limit opponents defensively will be essential. Jennings' ability to lead the passing attack, Raphael's production on the ground and the defense's recent performances give SMU several reasons for confidence heading into the weekend.

A victory would extend the Mustangs' winning streak to four games and provide another boost as they prepare for the remaining conference schedule. However, SMU must remain disciplined and execute consistently to avoid giving California opportunities to make the contest competitive.

The Mustangs have built momentum through their recent performances. Now, the focus shifts to turning that momentum into another win and continuing their push toward the top of the ACC.