SMU Extends Home ACC Winning Streak to 10 With 23-13 Victory Over Virginia

By Lone Star Sports | College Football

DALLAS, Texas — SMU continues to make Gerald J. Ford Stadium a difficult place for ACC opponents to play.

The Mustangs defeated Virginia 23-13 on Saturday, extending their home ACC winning streak to 10 games.

"Always good to get a win. I think they told me that's our 10th straight home ACC win," SMU head coach Rhett Lashley said following the victory.

The Mustangs relied on quarterback Kevin Jennings, a strong second-half defensive performance, and contributions from special teams to secure another conference victory at home.

Kevin Jennings Leads SMU's Offense

Jennings completed 23 of 36 passes for 246 yards and two touchdowns against the Cavaliers.

While Jennings has shown his ability to make big plays throughout the season, Lashley was particularly pleased with his decision-making against Virginia.

"I thought he did a nice job of just being a boring quarterback in a good way. And then when he had to be special, he was," Lashley said.

The performance reflected what Lashley wanted from his quarterback: managing the offense effectively while making plays when necessary.

Offensive Line Adjustments

SMU also made adjustments along its offensive line, including moving Andrew Chamblee to right tackle.

Lashley discussed the change during his postgame press conference, noting Chamblee's previous experience on the opposite side of the line.

"Andrew has typically been a little bit more comfortable on the left side. You know, when we beat Miami last year, he was on the left, PJ was on the right," Lashley explained.

The SMU head coach also expressed satisfaction with the team's rushing performance.

"I thought it showed in the run game. We were much better in the run game today," Lashley said.

The Mustangs were able to maintain possession late in the fourth quarter and run out the clock to secure the win.

SMU Defense Responds in Second Half

Virginia kept the contest competitive in the first half, but SMU's defense stepped up after halftime.

The Mustangs held the Cavaliers to just three points in the second half, limiting their opportunities to mount a comeback.

Lashley highlighted the defense's ability to slow Virginia's rushing attack, an important part of the Cavaliers' offensive approach.

The defensive performance helped SMU protect its lead and finish the game with another ACC victory.

Special Teams Contribute to Victory

SMU's special teams unit also played an important role in Saturday's win.

Kicker Brendan Baird connected on all three of his field-goal attempts, including one from 45 yards.

Lashley praised the execution of the field-goal unit and the confidence Baird has been developing.

"I think Wiley did a really good job holding it, and I think Brendan's starting to gain some confidence," Lashley said.

The three successful field goals provided nine points in a game where every scoring opportunity mattered.

Mustangs Continue Finding Ways to Win

One of the biggest takeaways from SMU's victory was the team's ability to find success in different areas of the game.

From Jennings' passing performance to the defense's second-half effort and the contributions of special teams, the Mustangs found ways to overcome a competitive Virginia team.

"It feels good to know we can find different ways to win. It's good to know we can win games that way," Lashley said.

With the victory, SMU improves to 6-1 on the season as the Mustangs continue their ACC schedule.

Up Next: SMU will face California on Saturday, October 24, at 11 a.m.