Hurricanes Face Mustangs in Long-Awaited 60-Year Rematch

In a highly anticipated matchup, the No. 10 Miami Hurricanes are set to face the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs for the first time in 60 years. The game will take place at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on October 21, 2023, at noon local time (11:00 a.m. in Dallas). This long-standing gap in competition highlights the significant transformation of both programs over the decades.

Since their last meeting in 1965, college football has undergone dramatic changes. The Hurricanes transitioned from an independent program to the Big East and then the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), securing five national titles along the way. Meanwhile, SMU faced its own challenges, including receiving the NCAA’s “Death Penalty” due to various scandals. The Mustangs shifted through multiple conferences, landing in the ACC after a tumultuous journey.

Although it has been six decades since these teams last clashed, the transfer portal has created new connections between them. Under the leadership of former Miami offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee, who became head coach of the Mustangs in 2022, 11 players have transferred from Miami to SMU. Miami head coach Mario Cristobal noted, “I think it’s part of football. The 22 guys on the field are the ones that are going to have to execute on both sides of the ball.”

Several former Hurricanes have made significant impacts at SMU. Notable players like Brashard Smith, Jared Harrison-Hunte, and Elijah Roberts, who were key contributors for the Mustangs, have since moved on, leaving the current roster with four former Miami players. Among them, wide receiver Romello Brinson has emerged as a standout, leading the Mustangs with 515 receiving yards and three touchdown receptions.

The upcoming game poses challenges for both teams, particularly in the trenches. SMU ranks as the No. 2 pass-blocking team and the No. 3 run-defending team in the nation, according to Pro Football Focus. The Mustangs are also tied for ninth overall with 25 sacks this season. Lashlee’s offensive strategy has led to an impressive average of over 30 points per game, although they faced a setback last week, scoring only 12 points against Wake Forest.

The Hurricanes will need to find ways to penetrate SMU’s formidable defense, which boasts the No. 15 run defense by yards allowed per game. However, the Mustangs have struggled in their pass defense, ranking as the second-worst team in the nation for passing yards allowed per game. Despite this vulnerability, they have managed to secure 12 interceptions, tying for fourth nationally.

Miami quarterback Carson Beck acknowledged the challenges posed by SMU’s defense, stating, “In my opinion, it’s one of the best defenses in the conference, if not the best.” He emphasized the need for Miami to be cautious with the ball, especially given SMU’s strong turnover margin, where they rank 13th in the country.

As the Hurricanes prepare for this historic rematch, both teams are eager to seize the opportunity to demonstrate their growth and resilience. The game promises to be a captivating encounter, showcasing the evolution of college football and the personal connections that now exist between players on opposing sides.