SMU improved to 2-3 on the season and won their conference opener against UTEP this past Saturday. The defense held UTEP scoreless which means that SMU is 2-0 this season when shutting out their opponent. Linebacker Ja’Gared Davis provided the fireworks when he returned an interception 30 yards for a touchdown towards the end of the first half. The TD extended SMU’s lead to 17-0. That would be it for the night as both teams failed to score in the second half. The Mustang defense forced three turnovers in the game and provided enough momentum for the victory.
The play of SMU QB Garrett Gilbert is still under the microscope. He went 22 of 44 for 234 yards with a TD and an interception. He is still making questionable throws that must be giving head coach June Jones fits. RB Zach Line had 25 carries for 84 yards but didn’t find the end zone. Line’s stats will improve once opposing defenses fear the pass. Darius Johnson led the receivers in performance by hauling in five catches for 82 yards and a TD. His counterpart, Jeremy Johnson was equally effective catching eight passes for 76 yards. The offense will have another chance to improve and build confidence when they take on Tulane. The Green Wave have lost 15 in a row and are horrible.
The Green Wave are fighting an uphill battle nearly every time the ball is kicked off. They are statistically near the bottom of every category. They give up a lot of yards through the air and on the ground. They don’t put up a lot of points but do give up a ton. This isn’t a formula for success. D.J. Ponder is the signal caller who throws more interceptions than touchdowns and can’t run. RB Robert Kelley will get most of the carries but isn’t effective due to a week offensive line. Justyn Shackleford is becoming the main target for passes and has improved significantly over the last two weeks. Look for SMU to win easily. Tulane just doesn’t have the players or the schemes to pull off a victory.
Game Info:
SMU vs TULANE
SAT. OCT. 13 – NOON
SUPERDOME