Get ready for some exciting news, sports fans! SMU is making a bold move that's sure to spark some debate. The Mustangs are taking their future home games against powerhouse teams Oklahoma and LSU to the iconic AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
But here's where it gets controversial... SMU, known for its rich football history, is leaving its on-campus stadium behind for these marquee matchups. Sources say it's all about branding and revenue, and who can blame them? After all, AT&T Stadium boasts a massive capacity of 80,000, compared to the cozy 33,200 at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on SMU's campus.
The first game against Oklahoma is set for September 11, 2027, completing a home-and-home series with the Sooners. And get this, the Mustangs haven't played in the Dallas Cowboys' home stadium since the 1980s, when they were led by the legendary Pony Express duo, Eric Dickerson and Craig James.
And this is the part most people miss... SMU's decision to move these games off-campus isn't just about the present. It's a nod to their glorious past. During their most successful era, from 1979 to 1986, the Mustangs played all their home games at Texas Stadium, the Cowboys' previous home. It was a golden age for SMU football, with seven winning seasons and top rankings in the AP Poll.
The LSU game, scheduled for September 1, 2029, will mark the first meeting between the Tigers and Mustangs since 1934. It's a historic matchup that deserves a grand stage, and AT&T Stadium fits the bill perfectly.
Under the guidance of coach Rhett Lashlee, SMU has experienced a remarkable resurgence. They made their first College Football Playoff appearance in 2024 and have had back-to-back 10-win seasons, a feat not seen since their glory days in the early 1980s.
So, what do you think about SMU's decision to move these games? Is it a smart business move, or does it take away from the traditional home-field advantage? Let's discuss in the comments! Remember, in sports, every decision has its pros and cons, and it's up to us to weigh them fairly.
