Southern Methodist University (SMU) kicks off its inaugural season as a Power Four program on Saturday as they travel to face the University of Nevada in the prime slot of Week 0. Although the teams have not faced each other recently, they do share a historical rivalry.
Both teams were part of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) from 2000 to 2004 and played against each other annually during that period. Nevada won three of the five matchups, with those victories coming consecutively from 2001 to 2003. Following SMU’s move to Conference USA in 2005, their series with Nevada was paused until 2009.
In that rematch, SMU defeated Nevada 45-10 in the Hawaii Bowl, marking the Mustangs’ first postseason victory since 1984. Since then, SMU has been on a generally positive trajectory, aside from a few challenging years in the American Athletic Conference (AAC), and they are coming off an impressive season of 11 wins under head coach Rhett Lashlee, during which they clinched their first American title.
On the other hand, Nevada has faced difficulties since the departure of former coach Jay Norvell, who led the team to four consecutive bowl games from 2018 to 2021. The Wolf Pack have recorded a troubling 4-20 record over the past two seasons.
Key details for the Nevada vs. SMU game:
SMU’s New Era: This marks SMU’s first official game as an Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) program. The Mustangs are transitioning to compete at a higher level for the first time in the current Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) breakdown. SMU has experience in managing tough competition, having previously shared the Southwest Conference with schools like Texas and Arkansas, but this transition poses new challenges. Their upcoming game will offer a glimpse into their new travel arrangements.
Nevada’s New Coach: Saturday also signifies a fresh start for Nevada under new head coach Jeff Choate, who previously served as co-defensive coordinator and inside linebackers coach at Texas. Before that, he coached Montana State from 2016 to 2020, where he made marked improvements each season, culminating in an 11-4 record and a semifinal appearance in the FCS Playoffs in 2019. Choate faces the task of revitalizing the Wolf Pack following two dismal 2-10 seasons.
Spotlight on SMU’s Quarterbacks: Coach Lashlee has confirmed that Preston Stone, who was the starter until suffering a leg injury late last season, will start against Nevada. However, Kevin Jennings, who stepped in during Stone’s absence, will also see playing time. While Stone’s return is promising, Lashlee seems keen to evaluate both quarterbacks before the season intensifies. Having multiple effective quarterbacks is certainly a beneficial situation for the Mustangs.
How to Watch Nevada vs. SMU Live:
Date: Saturday, August 24 | Time: 8 p.m. ET
Location: Mackay Stadium, Reno, Nevada
TV: CBS Sports Network | Live stream: CBSSports.com, CBS Sports App (Free)
Prediction for Nevada vs. SMU:
SMU is viewed as an underdog contender in the ACC and will aim to make a strong statement in their season opener. Nevada is expected to struggle against SMU, despite having home-field advantage. Choate has a rebuilding task ahead of him, marking this season as a foundation year for the Wolf Pack. Meanwhile, Lashlee is entering his third year with SMU and has a wealth of returning talent from last year’s successful campaign. This game is seen as a prime opportunity for SMU to prepare before facing tougher competition. Prediction: SMU -25.5.