The Baylor Bears will travel to Dallas, TX, for a Week 2 encounter against the SMU Mustangs at Gerald J. Ford Stadium. Scheduled for a 12:00 PM kickoff on Saturday, September 6, 2025, this game will be broadcast on CW. Baylor looks to bounce back after a 38-24 home loss to Auburn in Week 1. Baylor, representing the Big 12 Conference, enters the game with a 0-1 record. Despite putting up 419 passing yards against Auburn, they struggled with their ground game, rushing for only 64 yards. The Bears aim to improve their road record and find their first win of the season. SMU, on the other hand, comes off a dominant 42-13 victory over East Texas A&M. Ranked #17 in the AP Poll and #16 in the Coaches Poll, the Mustangs showcased a balanced attack in their opening win, recording 260 passing yards and 140 rushing yards. They aim to maintain their momentum and protect their home field advantage.
SMU vs Baylor At a Glance
- Game Location: Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, TX
- Kickoff Time: Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 12:00 PM
- Broadcast: CW
- Current SMU Record: 1-0
- Current Baylor Record: 0-1
- Game Odds: SMU Moneyline -132, Baylor Moneyline +111
SMU Mustangs: A Deep Dive Into Their Upcoming Game
Offensive Dynamics
The SMU Mustangs’ offense has demonstrated consistent performance, averaging 42 points per game in the 2025 season, ranking them 20th. Their passing game is notable with 260 yards per game, placing them 41st. The Mustangs’ rushing attack is more modest, with 140 yards per game, ranking 70th.
In their recent game against the East Texas A&M Lions, SMU’s offense was efficient, securing 25 first downs compared to their opponent’s 17. The Mustangs also capitalized on passing opportunities with a notable 260 passing yards.
Defensive Strengths
The Mustangs’ defense has shown prowess in limiting opponents to an average of 13 points per game, ranking 9th in this category. They have been effective in applying pressure, recording three sacks which places them 5th. Additionally, their defensive unit has secured two interceptions and one fumble recovery, ranking 3rd in both categories.
In their recent victory over East Texas A&M, SMU’s defense forced two interceptions and limited the Lions to 244 passing yards. This defensive resilience will be crucial as they prepare for their upcoming games.
Player Performances
Quarterback Kevin Jennings has been a pivotal player, contributing 260 passing yards and two touchdowns in his first game of the season. His ability to manage the game efficiently positions SMU well for future challenges.
Wide receiver Romello Brinson showcased his skills with seven receptions for 121 yards and a touchdown, emerging as a key target in the Mustangs’ aerial attack. Running back Chris Johnson Jr. added depth to the offense with 44 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Injury Concerns
Tyler Van Dyke’s absence due to a knee injury poses a challenge for the Mustangs’ depth at quarterback. The status of wide receiver Jordan Hudson and tight end RJ Maryland is uncertain, as both are dealing with injuries.
Additionally, linebacker Alexander Kilgore’s leg injury raises questions about the Mustangs’ defensive depth. Monitoring these injuries will be essential as the team moves forward in the season.
Team Betting Trends
- SMU has consistently covered the spread in their recent home games.
- The Mustangs have a strong record when playing as home favorites.
- Games involving SMU have frequently hit the over in total points.
Baylor Bears Ready to Roar: A Look into Their Upcoming Game
Team Performance Overview
The Baylor Bears are coming off a tough start to their 2025 season with a 38-24 loss against the Auburn Tigers. Despite the setback, Baylor’s offense demonstrated strength, particularly in their passing game with 419 passing yards. However, their rushing game struggled, managing only 64 yards.
On the defensive side, the Bears allowed 308 rushing yards, indicating an area that needs improvement. Baylor’s defense was unable to force any turnovers in the form of interceptions or fumbles, which may be crucial for their success moving forward.
Key Offensive Players
Quarterback Sawyer Robertson made a strong showing in his first game, throwing for 419 yards, placing him 6th in the league for passing yards. His performance included three passing touchdowns, showcasing his ability to lead the offense.
In the receiving corps, Kole Wilson emerged as a significant target with 134 receiving yards. Wilson’s contributions will be vital as Baylor looks to build on their aerial attack.
Defensive Adjustments Needed
Baylor’s defense needs to tighten up against the run, as evidenced by the 308 rushing yards allowed to Auburn. With no interceptions or fumbles recovered, their turnover game was lacking, which could be a focus area in upcoming practices.
Their ability to put pressure on the quarterback was evident with one sack, but more consistent pressure will be necessary to disrupt opposing offenses effectively.
Injury Concerns
The Bears have several players listed on their injury report, including key defensive players like Jackie Marshall and Carl Williams IV, who are both questionable. Offensive contributors like Daniel Edeni and Joseph Hagman are also dealing with injuries and may not see action soon.
Injuries to these players could impact the Bears’ depth and effectiveness, especially on defense, where they need all hands on deck to stop their opponents.
Team Betting Trends
- SU All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Underdog: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS as Underdog: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U as Underdog: 1-0 (100.0%)
Baylor’s defense has struggled so far, giving up 38 points in their opening game of the season. Their inability to generate turnovers or recover fumbles further complicates their defensive strategy. This will likely be a significant challenge against a high-scoring team like SMU.
On the other side, SMU’s offense has been efficient, scoring 42 points in their season opener. Their ability to balance passing and rushing plays effectively makes them a formidable offensive unit. Given Baylor’s defensive vulnerabilities, SMU should be able to put up a substantial score.
The total for this game is set at 64.5 points. Considering the offensive capabilities of SMU and the defensive issues Baylor has shown, this game has the potential to exceed that total. Both teams are likely to score in high numbers, pushing the game into the over.
With SMU expected to dominate offensively and Baylor likely needing to play catch-up, the combined score should surpass the current total. A projected final score of SMU 45 – Baylor 28 supports the over bet.
SMU vs Baylor Prediction: Over 64.5
- SMU vs Baylor Prediction: Over 64.5
- SMU vs Baylor Score: SMU 45 – Baylor 28
