In a simulated matchup featuring BYU and SMU in the new EA Sports College Football 25 video game, SMU edged out BYU with a final score of 38-33. The game served as part of the Deseret News’ simulation of every BYU game against an FBS opponent this season, as college football makes its return to video gaming.
Entering this Week 2 contest, BYU faced a challenging environment as they traveled to Dallas as significant underdogs. This game was crucial for the Cougars as they aimed to bounce back from a year without postseason play in 2023.
The simulation was designed with 12-minute quarters and reflected the current rosters, with Jake Retzlaff starting as BYU’s quarterback instead of the higher-rated Gerry Bohanon. For SMU, Preston Stone received full playtime as quarterback, given the parameters of the simulation.
Throughout the game, BYU only led once but remained competitive, trailing 17-13 at halftime after both teams had three scoring drives in the first half. BYU briefly took a 13-10 lead with a field goal just before intermission, but SMU quickly responded with a 73-yard touchdown pass from Stone to Jordan Hudson.
In the second stanza, BYU struggled with turnovers and fell behind as SMU extended their lead. A critical moment came early in the fourth quarter when Retzlaff’s interception led to a pick-six return by SMU’s Cale Sanders Jr., pushing the Mustangs ahead 38-26.
Despite the setbacks, BYU fought back with a 75-yard drive, culminating in a touchdown to Keelan Marion that narrowed the deficit to 38-33 with just over two minutes left. However, SMU effectively ran out the clock, utilizing a strong passing game and running attack to deny BYU another chance.
Key performances included Stone’s impressive stat line of 19 completions on 22 attempts for 358 yards and three touchdowns, with Hudson recording 217 receiving yards and three touchdowns. For BYU, Retzlaff threw for 494 yards and three scores despite two costly fourth-quarter interceptions, while LJ Martin added 139 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Overall, the game showcased an offensive battle with minimal defensive stops, leaving both teams with significant yardage—BYU totaled 605 yards while SMU amassed 494.