SMU Shocks Miami
Game Summary
The contest unfolded at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, where SMU, trailing for much of the game, rallied late to force overtime. Miami entered the game ranked No. 10 and was vying to solidify playoff positioning but suffered their second loss in three weeks, leaving them 6-2 overall and 2-2 in ACC play. SMU improved to 6-3 (4-1 ACC), winning their 13th straight home conference game.
Key Moments
- In overtime, SMU’s T.J. Harden carried the ball on four consecutive runs, ultimately scoring the decisive 1-yard touchdown that sealed the victory and sent students flooding onto the field in celebration.
- The Mustangs’ defense came up big in the extra period, with Ahmaad Moses intercepting Miami quarterback Carson Beck near the goal line. It was Moses’ second interception of the game, both crucial in turning momentum.
- Miami led throughout much of the first half, controlling possession and outgaining SMU 227-121 at halftime, but failed to take full advantage, settling for a field goal after a long punt return that could have set up a touchdown.
Team and Player Performances
- SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings contributed with a rushing touchdown and orchestrated several key plays. Running back T.J. Harden provided the overtime heroics, while defensive back Ahmaad Moses anchored the defense with two interceptions and a career-high 15 tackles.
- Miami’s Carson Beck threw for at least one touchdown and led a late drive, but was ultimately undone by turnovers and penalties, which Miami head coach Mario Cristobal cited as critical factors after the game.
Statistical Highlights
| Stat | Miami | SMU |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 20 | 26 |
| Total Yards | 433 | 388 |
| Pass Yards | 274 | 365 |
| Time of Possession | 37:42 | 22:18 |
Despite controlling time of possession and posting more total yardage, Miami’s inability to take advantage in key situations and SMU’s resilience proved decisive.
Aftermath and Impact
Coach Rhett Lashlee celebrated a contract extension earlier in the day and praised his team’s grit, calling Miami “a playoff-caliber team with a national championship-caliber defense”. The Mustangs maintained their streak of home dominance, while the Hurricanes’ playoff path became much more challenging with another conference setback.
The game stands as a dramatic example of college football’s unpredictability, with SMU’s defense and late-game execution overturning expectations against a favored Miami squad.
