Southern Methodist University (SMU) has been making waves recently, particularly within the realm of college football. With significant shifts in the team's historic rivalry and the involvement of prominent figures in local politics, SMU has garnered attention from sports fans and analysts alike. Here's why SMU is trending and what the future holds for the Mustangs.
Why SMU is Trending
SMU has been a hot topic due to the upcoming conclusion of its long-standing football rivalry with Texas Christian University (TCU), known as the "Battle for the Iron Skillet." This annual face-off has been a cornerstone of college football in Texas, but with the rivalry set to end after 2025, SMU is now searching for new rivals to fill the void. The rivalry’s significance, strong fan engagement, and recent developments around it have pushed SMU into the spotlight.
Additionally, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson and other city council members have recently made headlines by sporting "TCU Sucks" shirts during a public council briefing. Their sartorial statement stirred up local excitement ahead of the Iron Skillet game, further boosting SMU's visibility in the news.
The End of the Iron Skillet Rivalry
The "Battle for the Iron Skillet" between SMU and TCU has been a historic annual event that football fans have looked forward to for decades. However, the rivalry is set to come to a close after the 2025 season, marking the end of an era. TCU's decision to suspend the series has left SMU without a guaranteed annual rival, raising questions about the future of the Mustangs' schedule.
According to a recent article from The Dallas Morning News, SMU is exploring potential new rivals to fill the gap after TCU's exit. Five possible rivals include schools like Oklahoma State, Arkansas, and Houston, among others. Establishing a new rivalry could help maintain fan interest and media attention, but it won't be easy to replace the historic significance of the Iron Skillet.
Local Politics and the Rivalry
The fervor surrounding SMU's rivalry with TCU has also spilled into local politics. Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, along with several city council members, recently sparked controversy by wearing "TCU Sucks" shirts at a city council briefing. This playful (but pointed) gesture occurred just days before the Mustangs and Horned Frogs were set to compete in their annual matchup at Gerald J. Ford Stadium.
According to a report from WFAA, the shirts worn by the mayor and council members demonstrated the deep-rooted nature of the rivalry within the local community. The incident not only highlighted the passion surrounding the game but also underscored how intertwined the SMU-TCU rivalry is with Dallas' cultural and civic identity.
Sonny Dykes' Return to SMU
Another key element in the current SMU-TCU storyline is the return of TCU football coach Sonny Dykes to SMU's turf. Dykes has a unique history, having coached both SMU and TCU, making this year's Iron Skillet game especially poignant. During his time at SMU, Dykes led the Mustangs to several successful seasons before moving to TCU, where he has continued to build a strong program.
According to USA Today, Dykes' return to SMU's stadium brings added drama to the rivalry. His coaching history with both teams adds an extra layer of intrigue to the Iron Skillet game, as fans from both sides eagerly watch to see how his leadership will impact the outcome of the matchup.
What's Next for SMU?
As the Iron Skillet rivalry winds down, SMU faces a period of transition. The school is in search of a new annual rival to keep fans engaged, and potential matchups with schools like Arkansas and Houston are on the table. However, replacing the emotional intensity and historic significance of the Iron Skillet rivalry will be no easy feat.
Additionally, SMU's relevance in local politics and popular culture remains strong, as evidenced by the actions of Dallas' mayor and city council. As the Mustangs continue to compete on the field and in the headlines, there's no doubt that SMU will remain a key player in the world of college sports.
Conclusion
SMU is currently trending due to a combination of factors: the impending end of its storied rivalry with TCU, the involvement of local politicians in the football frenzy, and the return of former SMU coach Sonny Dykes to face his old team. With the Iron Skillet rivalry set to conclude in 2025, SMU now looks toward the future, hoping to establish new rivalries and maintain its presence both on and off the field.
As the Mustangs navigate these changes, the passion of their fans and the support of the local community will undoubtedly continue to drive SMU's story forward.