College football fans across the nation have been buzzing about the 'CFB schedule' as programs gear up for the 2024 season, and one team in particular is capturing headlines: Southern Methodist University (SMU). The Mustangs, once a powerhouse in collegiate football, are making a significant return to the spotlight after years of dormancy, and their schedule for the upcoming season is a key talking point. Here's why the 'CFB schedule' is trending, what it means for SMU, and how recent developments are setting the stage for an exciting future in college football.
Why 'CFB Schedule' is Trending
The term 'CFB schedule' has been trending recently for several reasons. One of the biggest drivers of this interest is the anticipation surrounding the 2024 college football season. As conferences realign and new teams join the ranks of the Power 4 conferences, fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting the release of the new schedules to see how these changes will play out on the field.
For SMU, the excitement is particularly palpable. After years of rebuilding its football program, the Mustangs are set to join the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in 2024. This monumental shift will see SMU competing against some of the nation's top programs, marking an important chapter in the school's athletic history. The release of their upcoming CFB schedule will be a critical moment for the team and its fans.
SMU's Journey Back to Prominence
SMU's football program has a long and storied history, but not all of it is positive. In 1987, the Mustangs became the first—and only—team to receive the NCAA's infamous "death penalty" after a series of recruiting violations. The punishment effectively shuttered the program for two seasons, and SMU football struggled to recover in the years that followed.
However, a determined group of boosters and alumni have worked tirelessly to bring the program back to prominence. According to ESPN, this group, often jokingly referred to as the "billionaires," played a pivotal role in SMU's recent resurgence. These benefactors have been instrumental in securing the Mustangs' move to the ACC, ensuring that the team will have the resources and support needed to compete at the highest level.
No Pressure, No Problem: Rhett Lashlee's Perspective
While SMU's transition to the ACC is undeniably a significant milestone, head coach Rhett Lashlee is maintaining a grounded perspective. In an interview with On3, Lashlee addressed the pressure his team might feel entering the Power 4. He explained that the Mustangs are not expected to dominate immediately, which could work to their advantage.
As Lashlee put it, "There’s no pressure on us, we’re not supposed to win these games." This underdog mentality could serve the team well as they face off against established ACC powerhouses. With less external expectation, SMU has the opportunity to surprise critics and potentially pull off some major upsets in their first season in the conference.
Fundraising Success: A $125 Million Milestone
In addition to the on-field excitement, SMU has seen significant success off the field as well. The school's ambitious fundraising campaign aimed at boosting its athletic competitiveness in the ACC recently surpassed its $125 million goal. A large portion of this success is thanks to the contributions of alumni like Matthew H. Fleeger, from the class of 1987, and Candee Richmond Fleeger, from the class of 1986.
According to APN News, the Fleeger Family Foundation played a pivotal role in the campaign's success. The funds will be used to enhance SMU's athletic facilities and ensure the Mustangs are well-prepared to compete in the ACC. This financial backing is crucial for the team, especially as they face the increased competition that comes with joining a Power 4 conference.
What’s Next for SMU Football?
As the 2024 season approaches, SMU’s upcoming CFB schedule is highly anticipated. Fans are eager to see how the Mustangs will fare against their new ACC rivals. While the team may not be favored to win many of their early matchups, the combination of strong financial support, experienced coaching, and a resilient team could lead to some surprising results.
The Mustangs' story is one of redemption and resurgence. From the depths of the NCAA's "death penalty" to a new chapter in the ACC, SMU football is back—and their CFB schedule for 2024 will be a key factor in determining how far they've come.
Sources
- ESPN: 'Oh, s---, here come all the billionaires': How SMU came back from the dead
- On3: Rhett Lashlee on transition to Power 4: ‘There’s no pressure on us, we’re not supposed to win these games’
- APN News: With Help From Alums Like Matthew H. Fleeger, Southern Methodist University Athletics Surpasses Fundraising Goal of $125 Million