DALLAS – BYU football achieved a surprising victory, defeating SMU 18-15 in Dallas.
The win places BYU at 2-0 in the 2024 season, and several key takeaways emerged from the game.
BYU’s defense showcased significant improvement under defensive coordinator Jay Hill in his second year. Hill, who called the game from the booth, oversaw a defensive effort that limited SMU’s scoring opportunities. SMU managed only two field goals from their first five red zone chances, failing to score a touchdown throughout the entire game.
BYU’s aggressive defensive strategy led SMU coach Rhett Lashlee to bench starting quarterback Preston Stone after BYU consistently pressured him. Before this game, SMU had been averaging 52 points per game over a nine-game home winning streak, which BYU notably interrupted.
In the running back department, Enoch Nawahine stepped up remarkably after injuries sidelined starters LJ Martin and Hinckley Ropati. Nawahine had an essential touchdown that put BYU ahead in the third quarter. Additionally, in a pivotal play during the fourth quarter, Miles Davis executed a 37-yard run following a pitch from quarterback Jake Retzlaff, setting up a field goal that reclaimed the lead for BYU with less than two minutes left.
However, Retzlaff’s performance was mixed, as he tossed two interceptions and fumbled once, indicating potential concerns about his consistency moving forward in the season. Despite this, he displayed resilience, particularly with a critical pitch to Davis that aided a key drive.
Transfers from Weber State have continued to make an impact for BYU. Jack Kelly made a significant contribution with a first-quarter sack, while Marque Collins intercepted a pass in the red zone. Kelly also pressured SMU’s quarterback on a decisive third down late in the game.
The victory and standout performances highlight BYU’s potential as it progresses through the season.