The rivalry game that pits Dallas against Ft. Worth is this Saturday. East versus West. Cosmopolitan versus Country Witticism. The series originated back in 1915 and the two teams have faced each other ever since only missing six meetings. TCU currently leads the series (44-40-7).
SMU comes into the game with a 1-2 record and has been on a Southwest Conference “memory tour” this season facing former foes Baylor and Texas A&M. They lost these games by a combined score of 107-27. Former Longhorn quarterback Garrett Gilbert hasn’t performed well for the Mustangs. He has completed a little more than half of his passes and has more interceptions than touchdowns this season. He isn’t a dual threat by any means. Learning the new playbook was supposed to be an easy process but the June Jones offense has presented its share of difficulties. This has allowed defenses to key on RB Zach Line. Line is a beast and when opposing defenses have to be honest, he can rush for big gains. He’s rushed for over 100-yards twice this year and has the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. The receivers will have tough match ups as well. Don’t’ expect big games out of Keenan Holman or Gehrig Dieter. The Mustang defense will have its hands full if the offense isn’t able to play keep away. It won’t be pretty for the Mustangs.
TCU on the other hand is a well oiled machine that continues to dominate its opponents. Fresh off of a 27-7 thumping of Virginia the Horned Frogs are looking for payback from last season’s overtime loss in the Iron Skillet game. Junior signal caller Casey Pachall has improved from last year and is completing over 76% of his passes. He is efficient and can make the long pass when asked. RBs Waymon James and Matthew Tucker will look to run through the porous Mustang defense. WRs Brandon Carter and Josh Boyce should also have their moments. TCU has given up a total of 13 points this season and will present nightmares for the Ponies. TCU will dominate in this one.
Game Info:
#15 TCU vs SMU
SAT. SEPT. 29 – 6PM / FSN
GERALD FORD STADIUM