SMU Football: Can Mustangs challenge for the AAC crown in 2020?

How will the Mustangs fare in 2020?

As of Aug. 10, SMU’s schedule for the 2020 season remains somewhat intact even as least 49 cases of COVID-19 have been identified on the Southern Methodist campus. They are due to remain in the state of Texas through the month of September, with road trips to Texas State and North Texas sandwiched around the home opener against FCS Stephen F. Austin. To close out the opening month, SMU hosts rival TCU in the annual non-conference Battle for the Iron Skillet — that game may or may not actually happen.

In conference play, the Mustangs avoid both Florida schools during the regular season. Their toughest tests — Memphis, Cincinnati, Navy and Houston — all have to come to Dallas to play. Winning all four contests will be difficult, but the comforts of home will help even if fans aren’t in the stands.

Their four road games take SMU to Tulane, Temple, Tulsa and East Carolina. All are tricky tests, especially the trip to Philadelphia to play the Owls. Tulsa, which took SMU to overtime last season before falling 41-38, could also be a tough out for the Mustangs.

What’s next for SMU?

The season opener in San Marcos is the third meeting between Texas State and SMU. In both previous meetings between the schools, the Mustangs scored 47 points en route to victory. Things will likely play out in similar fashion again this time as SMU opens the 2020 season with win and a bit of momentum heading into tougher tests ahead.

Prediction: 9-3 (6-2 AAC)

Look for the Mustangs to open the season 3-0 in non-conference play before their big test against TCU. While SMU took down the Horned Frogs last season on the road, it will be tough to replicate that feat this year — even with the advantage of playing at home.

Expect SMU to win all four of their AAC games on the road this year. Winning their four conference home games will be a tougher test. Losses to Memphis and Cincinnati are likely, but the Mustangs will fend off Houston and could also pip Navy to set up the chance for a second straight 10-win season if postseason play occurs this year.