The SMU Mustangs are gearing up for an exciting clash as they kick off their first conference matchup against the newly inducted Charlotte 49ers, who joined the American Athletic Conference (AAC) in 2021. This game presents a crucial opportunity for SMU to rebound after a challenging outing in their last matchup. The Mustangs have shown their ability to dominate teams with subpar records, but they’ve struggled against tougher adversaries like TCU and Oklahoma.
Photo Cred: SMU Athletics
The game poses a unique challenge for Charlotte, who must face the Mustangs on the road and have faced their own struggles in recent seasons. With both teams eager to secure a victory, this matchup holds significant implications for the future of SMU football. Southern Methodist has showcased their prowess against teams that struggle to achieve over .500 seasons, such as Louisiana Tech and Prairie View. When faced with these opponents, SMU’s offense tends to flourish, putting up impressive numbers on the scoreboard. In such games, the Mustangs’ high-octane offense becomes a formidable force.
However, the narrative changes when Southern Methodist faces stronger adversaries like TCU and Oklahoma. In these matchups, the Mustangs have often struggled to orchestrate solid offensive drives, with their defense often stepping up as the saving grace. These games have posed significant challenges for SMU, highlighting the need to strengthen their offensive capabilities.
Photo Cred: SI
Charlotte, on the other hand, finds itself in a situation similar to what SMU faced when joining the AAC in 2013. The 49ers have failed to finish above .500 in the past three seasons, and they’re now navigating the challenging landscape of a new conference. Their journey in the AAC is an uphill battle, but they’ve already shown their potential by holding Maryland to just nine points in the first half during a recent game. The 49ers’ defense demonstrated resilience and the ability to stifle a potent offensive opponent.
As Southern Methodist enters this game one victory ahead of the Charlotte 49ers, it’s clear that they cannot afford to underestimate their opponents. This matchup holds significant weight, as the Mustangs need to secure a victory to build momentum before facing conference leaders Memphis and Tulsa, both of whom have already notched three wins this season. A victory in this game could serve as a catalyst for SMU, potentially boosting their offensive confidence following a tepid performance against TCU.
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Photo Cred: Underdog Dynasty
The SMU Mustangs are set to face the Charlotte 49ers in their first conference matchup of the season. While Southern Methodist has a history of dominating teams with subpar records, they’ve struggled against tougher opponents. Meanwhile, Charlotte is looking to make its mark in the AAC after years of struggling to achieve above .500 seasons. With both teams hungry for a win, this game holds significant implications for the Mustangs’ football season. A victory here could be the spark that ignites their offensive confidence as they prepare to face formidable conference leaders in the coming weeks. SMU fans eagerly await kickoff, hoping their Mustangs will ride to victory and set the tone for a successful season in the AAC.
