SMU Football: Recent Success and Future Prospects

The Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs football team has been making significant waves in the college football scene. Recently, they secured a notable victory over the Pittsburgh Panthers with a 48-25 win on November 2, 2024. This victory was part of their impressive season, where they currently stand with an 8-1 record.

In their latest matchup, SMU’s quarterback Eli Holstein had a mixed performance, going 29-for-47 passing for 248 yards and one interception, along with 10 rushes for 19 yards. Despite this, the team’s overall performance was strong, highlighting their resilience and teamwork.

Off the field, SMU has also been experiencing success in recruiting. The team recently gained a commitment from Cole Leinart, a three-star junior quarterback from Redondo Union in Los Angeles. Cole is the son of former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL quarterback Matt Leinart. He expressed his enthusiasm for the SMU culture and coaching staff, stating, “I love the culture, what they are building, the coaches,” and his father reflected on his son’s decision with pride.

As SMU continues to push towards the College Football Playoff, their recruiting momentum is also gaining traction. The commitment from Cole Leinart marks him as the second member of the Mustangs’ 2026 recruiting class, indicating a bright future for the team under Coach Rhett Lashlee.