2023: SMU Preview
Another Rivalry Week
UNT vs SMU ・November 10, 2023 ・8pm CT ・ESPN2 ・ University Park, TX ・Ford Stadium (32,000)
A while ago, when this series re-started, we wrote that since the Death Penalty, SMU and NT had a very similar trek through the college football landscape. That was true then, and has changed somewhat in the years since. NT blew out June Jones’ ponies in 2014 (should have been a shut out) and since then have been handled pretty thoroughly since. There was the one win in 2018, but the Ponies have had the Mean Green’s number.
It has been more than a little frustrating. NT fandom has gone from upset to resigned about the fate. This week has been more about basketball — a winning program! — and almost nothing about the SMU “rivalry”. The general consensus is that SMU will host NT and light up the scoreboard ahead of their exit to the Atlantic Coast Conference.
It would be awesome to put a little dent in their plans, but the reality is that would really be a feat. The Mustangs are playing very well, have loads of talent and resources while NT is trying to piece together a whole game without needing a 21-point comeback.
Rhett Lashlee took over the head gig after Sonny Dykes left his “dream school” to go to their rivals. SMU has managed 14 wins in 1.5 seasons against 8 losses thus far.
The SMoos are very good on offense, leading the league in scoring, and second in total offense (to NT!) and boast the best defense by yards-against. This season they are also atop the points-allowed standings (13.4) vs the league. NT is at 31ppg, which is 9th.
You can browse a lot of advanced numbers, and scouting grades and they roughly say the same things: NT’s offense is good, but SMU’s is great. NT’s highest PFF offensive grade was an 85 (Temple) while SMU has posted three 90+ (including vs Temple).
This is going to be a tough one, and while it is a road game, it is a “road” game that involves a short bus ride. That this series is going to be over once SMU leaves will be a loss for North Texas. For all the one-sidedness, it was nice to have something like a bonus home game on the schedule every other year.
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