sports
SMU quarterback holds top winning percentage among returning power conference signal callers
SMU's senior quarterback leads returning power conference quarterbacks with a 73 percent career winning percentage. The program has started a Heisman Trophy campaign for the player and enters its second season in the ACC. Coach Rhett Lashlee has promoted the quarterback throughout the offseason.
Jul 16, 5:12 AM·1m read2 sources
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SMU's senior quarterback enters the 2026 season with the highest winning percentage of any returning power conference signal caller at 73 percent. The player ranks in the top 10 among returning quarterbacks in passing touchdowns, passing yards, and total offense.
The university launched a Heisman Trophy campaign for the quarterback in July, the program's first such effort since the 1980s. SMU reached the College Football Playoff in 2024 and aims to return in 2026.
Program context SMU moved from the American Athletic Conference to the ACC ahead of the 2024 season. The program had previously competed in the WAC, Conference USA, and American Athletic Conference. Coach Rhett Lashlee said the team proved it was not a one-hit wonder after last season's playoff appearance.
He added that the program must repeat strong performances to establish consistency. The quarterback transferred to SMU from Missouri State and became the starter in 2023 after an injury to the previous starter. SMU won its first conference championship since the 1980s that season.
Outlook The team opens ACC media days on Friday.
Lashlee said the program has a broad vision and does not want to limit itself. SMU lost four games in 2025 by a combined margin of 12 points, including three decided in the final seconds.
