SMU Mustangs Outmaneuver Stanford Cardinal: Was Defense the Key?
In a compelling display of skill and determination, the Southern Methodist University Mustangs improved their season record to 6-1 after a decisive victory over the Stanford Cardinal, with the final scoreboard reading 40-10. The Cardinal, struggling to find their rhythm this season, now sit at a 2-5 record.
Dominant Defense and Special Teams
The Mustangs' defense was nothing short of spectacular, contributing significantly to the team's success. With six sacks and eleven tackles for loss totaling 34 yards lost for Stanford, SMU's defensive line proved too much for their opponents. Jahfari Harvey led this defensive onslaught with two sacks and three tackles for loss, showcasing his ability to disrupt the backfield consistently.
Special teams also played a pivotal role in SMU's strategy. Isaac Pearson’s punting was exemplary; he managed an average of 47 yards across four punts, pinning Stanford inside their own 20-yard line twice without allowing any return yards. This performance not only showcased Pearson’s precision but also highlighted how field position can be crucial in controlling the game flow.
Offensive Highlights
On offense, Kevin Jennings had an outstanding game as quarterback for SMU Mustangs with three touchdown passes while amassing 322 passing yards on a completion rate of over sixty percent. His longest pass went for an impressive 87 yards touchdown to Moochie Dixon who had one reception that dramatically shifted momentum in favor of SMU early on.
The rushing attack added another dimension to SMU's offense with LJ Johnson Jr. finding the end zone twice among his nine carries while Brashard Smith led in rushing yards with sixty-seven from eight attempts. Their efforts contributed significantly towards accumulating a total offensive yardage of five hundred one by game end.
Looking Ahead
Next up for Southern Methodist University is an away game against Duke Blue Devils at Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium in Durham on October 26th at 8:00 PM EDT. Fans eager not to miss this encounter can catch all the action live on ACC Network (satellite channel number:612), promising another exciting chapter in SMU Mustangs' season journey.
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