SMU Mustangs Football Program History
The SMU Mustangs, nestled in the heart of Dallas, Texas, boast a football history as vibrant and complex as the city itself. From early gridiron triumphs to periods of national prominence and subsequent challenges, the Mustangs' story is a compelling narrative of highs and lows. Their legacy is etched with moments of brilliance, marked by legendary players and coaches who graced the field at Ownby Stadium and later, Ford Stadium.
In the early to mid-20th century, SMU football ascended to national recognition, becoming a Southwest Conference powerhouse. The Mustangs cultivated a reputation for exciting, high-scoring offenses, captivating fans and drawing national attention. Names like Doak Walker became synonymous with SMU football, symbolizing the program's golden era. However, the program's history is also intertwined with controversy, most notably the "death penalty" imposed by the NCAA in 1987, which dramatically altered the trajectory of the program.
In the early to mid-20th century, SMU football ascended to national recognition, becoming a Southwest Conference powerhouse. The Mustangs cultivated a reputation for exciting, high-scoring offenses, captivating fans and drawing national attention. Names like Doak Walker became synonymous with SMU football, symbolizing the program's golden era. However, the program's history is also intertwined with controversy, most notably the "death penalty" imposed by the NCAA in 1987, which dramatically altered the trajectory of the program.
