NEW ORLEANS, LA — The SMU Mustangs are the 2023 AAC Conference champions! The Mustangs were an underdog against Tulane standing at a strong spot No. 25 in the CFP while the green wave was ranked a tad higher at No. 18. With the move to the ACC coming in 2024, it was the Mustangs final chance to win the league. SMU completed their goal managing to win 26-14 against the defending champion Tulane Green Wave. This victory finally gives SMU their first conference title since winning the Southwest Conference in 1984.
A major key factor for the Mustangs win was the fill in quarterback Kevin Jennings. The redshirt was facing an incredibly difficult task of filling in for an injured Preston Stone, but the freshman quarterback rose to the challenge with determination. Jennings finished the game with 19 completions on 33 attempts for 203 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Jennings also rushed for 63 yards.
So, what’s next for SMU? They still have a bowl game left to play, and it could be a very big one. With Tulane’s loss, the Mustangs hope for a spot in a New Years Six game. Now, the question is, whether SMU’s resume outweighs Liberty’s for that spot that goes to the Group of Five’s best team.
The CFP Committee will make that call at Noon ET on Sunday. Stay tuned.
