The SMU Mustangs college football program represents Southern Methodist University in NCAA Division I FBS football. Established in 1915, the Mustangs have a rich history in college football, marked by periods of success and adversity. The team plays its home games at Gerald J. Ford Stadium, an on-campus facility in Dallas, Texas, which has a seating capacity of 32,000. This modern stadium, opened in 2000, provides an electric atmosphere for fans and players alike.
The SMU Mustangs are a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), having joined from the American Athletic Conference in 2024. Prior to joining the AAC, the Mustangs were part of the Southwest Conference (SWC) until it dissolved in 1996. Over the years, the team has produced numerous notable players, including Pro Football Hall of Famers Eric Dickerson and Raymond Berry.
One of the most famous and controversial periods in SMU's history occurred in the 1980s when the program received the "Death Penalty" from the NCAA due to multiple violations, including paying players. This penalty, which involved the cancellation of the 1987 season and severe restrictions in subsequent years, had a profound impact on the program, leading to a long period of rebuilding.
Despite these challenges, the Mustangs have experienced a resurgence in recent years under the leadership of head coaches like June Jones and Sonny Dykes. The program has seen increased success, with multiple bowl game appearances and a renewed sense of optimism among the fan base.
The Mustangs' fight song, "Peruna," and the school's mascot, a Shetland pony also named Peruna, are iconic symbols of SMU's spirited football culture. The program's colors, red and blue, are proudly displayed by fans and athletes, embodying the university's vibrant sports tradition.
With a commitment to excellence both on and off the field, the SMU Mustangs continue to strive for success, aiming to build on their storied past and create a promising future in college football.