A Season of Service and Success
Alexander Kilgore, SMU’s team captain, has been selected as a nominee for the 2026 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, an honor that celebrates student‑athletes who excel in community service, academic achievement and on‑field performance. The nomination highlights Kilgore’s blend of leadership, scholarship and athletic talent that has defined his senior season.
The Mustangs concluded the campaign with a 9‑4 record and secured their first bowl victory since 2012 by defeating No. 17 Arizona in the Trust & Will Holiday Bowl. That win not only marked a historic milestone for the program but also underscored the team’s resilience and cohesion under Kilgore’s guidance.
Defensive Dominance on the Field
SMU’s defense finished among the nation’s top 25 in several critical categories, including turnovers gained, red‑zone efficiency and passes intercepted. Those statistical achievements reflected a unit that consistently stepped up in key moments, complementing the offense’s balanced attack.
Community Commitment
Off the field, Kilgore has devoted his time to coaching youth football camps in Dallas and Houston, offering mentorship to the next generation of players. He also spent numerous hours at the Children’s Health Hospital, where he engaged with young patients, bringing them smiles and a sense of normalcy amid treatment.
Looking Ahead to September
The Allstate AFCA Good Works Team will be announced in September, assembling 22 student‑athletes and one honorary head coach. One of the selected players will be named team captain and will receive the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy, an award that honors outstanding community service paired with athletic and academic excellence.