The Week 2 showdown between the SMU Mustangs and the FSU Seminoles is set for Monday night at 7:30 p.m. ET, with the game taking place at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Florida.
SMU entered the 2024 campaign after an 11‑3 finish that earned the program its first-ever College Football Playoff berth, and the Mustangs have built on that momentum with a 9‑4 record last year and a strong start this season, highlighted by the return of quarterback Kevin Jennings, who has taken over the reins of the offense.
In contrast, the Seminoles have endured a steep decline, posting a 2‑10 record in the previous season and a 5‑7 mark the year before, leaving them with the toughest test of the year as they face the ACC’s rising power.
The two programs met earlier in 2024, with SMU delivering a commanding 42‑16 victory, a result that underscores the Mustangs’ early dominance in the series and adds confidence heading into this rematch.
Key Factors
Statistically, SMU holds a higher overall SP+ rating of 64.2 compared to FSU’s 60.0, with the Mustangs’ offense rated at 58.6 and defense at -6.0, while the Seminoles sit at 55.3 on offense and a -5.0 defensive rating.
Kevin Jennings, the SMU quarterback, is expected to drive the offensive rhythm, leveraging his experience and the team’s balanced attack to exploit the Seminoles’ vulnerabilities.
ESPN analyst Bill Connelly has forecasted a narrow 27‑25 win for SMU, a spread that would still allow FSU to cover the line, reflecting the close balance projected by the SP+ metrics.
Dave Pasch, Dusty Dvoracek and Taylor McGregor have also weighed in on the matchup, noting the importance of special teams and turnover margin in determining the outcome.
With playoff aspirations on the line for SMU and a need to reverse a disheartening slide for FSU, the contest promises high intensity and could shape the early narrative of the 2024 season.