SMU Wins 2012 BBVA Compass Bowl

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The SMU Mustangs dismantled the Pitt Panthers 28-6 at the BBVA Compass bowl in Birmingham, Alabama.

The Mustangs jumped out to a 21-0 first quarter lead on the strength of J.J. McDermott’s arm and a smothering defense.  It was the most points ever scored in a quarter at the BBVA Compass Bowl.  Pitt was never able to get back into the game with the SMU defense whipped into a frenzy.

SMU set several records in the bowl, including fewest points allowed.  The SMU defense held the Panthers to only 10 rushing yards, also a record, and tied the record of allowing only 12 first downs.  

Linebacker Ja’Gared Davis led SMU with 9 tackles, including a forced fumble and a sack.  Defensive end Margus Hunt had a career-high 3 sacks.  Linebacker Stephon Sanders had his first career interception.  Safety Justin Sorrell blocked a punt, the first of his career and the first for SMU since 2008.

Quarterback J.J. McDermott was 16 of 26 for 239 yards and a touchdown.  He also ran for his first career rushing TD.  McDermott finished the season with 3421 passing yards, 2nd in SMU history.

Receiver Darius Johnson named BBVA Compass Bowl MVP (7-120 receiving, 1TD) – BBVA Compass Bowl records (ties receptions with 7, set record for logest reception on the 50-yard TD in the 1st Qtr) (Johnson was also the offensive MVP in the 2010 Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl)  Cole Beasley also tied the record with 7 catches.  Beasley and Darius Johnson have combined for 165 receptions and 2158 receiving yards this season. That ties for 1st for combined receptions (Beasley 86, Johnson 79) and is 2nd for combined yards (Beasley 1040, Johnson 1118).

With star running back Zach Line out due to injury, the Mustangs only netted 61 yards on the ground.  Rishaad Wimbley scored a career-high 2 rushing touchdowns as he gained 15 yards on 6 carries.  Jared Williams rushed 11 times for 40 yards.

The win is the 100th career coaching victory for SMU head coach June Jones (100-69).