SMU clinches ACC title berth in debut season

SMU clinched a spot in the ACC championship game after a 33-7 win over Virginia on Saturday, becoming the first team in league history to make the title game in its first season.

The Mustangs do not have an opponent just yet. Miami (10-1, 6-1) must beat Syracuse next weekend to clinch its spot. A loss means Clemson, which has already finished league play at 7-1, would make it to Charlotte.

SMU came into the league off great success in the American Athletic Conference, winning the league a year ago. But no team has done what the Mustangs have done in Year 1, making the transition from Group of 5 to Power 4.

SMU joined the ACC in its quest to return to a power conference again, and in doing so, agreed to take no television revenue from the ACC for nine years. They were a team on a mission from the very start, eager to prove they belonged on this level.

SMU has been a different team since turning to Kevin Jennings as its starting quarterback after three games. Jennings is 8-0 as a starter, and has helped SMU to a 7-0 ACC record – the only team that is undefeated in league play. Against Virginia, Jennings went 25-of-33 for 323 yards with a touchdown and interception.

Coach Rhett Lashlee signed a contract extension with the school on Friday, reaffirming his commitment to being with the Mustangs for the long-term. Despite its dominance in ACC play, SMU remains on the outside looking in, based on the latest College Football Playoff selection committee rankings.

If SMU wins the ACC, the Mustangs would be a lock to make it into the CFP. Another loss could mean the end of their playoff hopes. SMU closes the regular season against California next Saturday.