SMU vs. Indiana State: A Historic Rivalry Renewed Key Matchups Common Mistakes to Avoid Why This Game Matters Benefits of Attending the Game Tables

The History

The SMU Mustangs and the Indiana State Sycamores have a long and storied rivalry that dates back to 1929. The two schools have met 45 times on the gridiron, with SMU holding a slight edge with 23 wins to Indiana State’s 21.

The rivalry is particularly heated due to the close proximity of the two schools. Just 280 miles separate Dallas, where SMU is located, and Terre Haute, Indiana, where Indiana State resides. This proximity has led to many memorable games and a passionate fan base on both sides.

One of the most memorable games in the series was played in 1963. SMU, led by legendary coach Hayden Fry, defeated Indiana State 52-14. The win helped SMU finish the season with a perfect 11-0 record and earn a berth in the Cotton Bowl.

The Present

The rivalry has been renewed in recent years as both SMU and Indiana State have experienced a resurgence in their football programs. In 2017, the Mustangs won the American Athletic Conference Championship and earned a berth in the Birmingham Bowl. The Sycamores, meanwhile, won the Missouri Valley Football Conference Championship in 2018 and earned a berth in the FCS Championship Game.

The two teams met again in 2021, with SMU winning 38-14. The Mustangs are currently ranked 23rd in the nation, while Indiana State is ranked 19th.

The Future

The SMU-Indiana State rivalry is sure to continue to be a heated one for many years to come. Both schools have talented teams and passionate fan bases. The next chapter in this historic rivalry will be written on Saturday, September 17, 2022, when the two teams meet at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas.

Quarterbacks

SMU: Tanner Mordecai
Indiana State: Cade Sparks

Mordecai is one of the most prolific passers in the country. He threw for 3,628 yards and 39 touchdowns last season. Sparks is a rising star who threw for 2,739 yards and 19 touchdowns in 2021.

Running Backs

SMU: Ulysses Bentley IV
Indiana State: Peterson Kerlegrand

Bentley is a hard-nosed runner who averaged 5.2 yards per carry last season. Kerlegrand is a versatile back who rushed for 1,033 yards and caught 29 passes last season.

Receivers

SMU: Rashee Rice
Indiana State: Dante Hendrix

Rice is one of the best receivers in the country. He caught 96 passes for 1,355 yards and 10 touchdowns last season. Hendrix is a big target who caught 46 passes for 633 yards and five touchdowns last season.

Defense

SMU: DeVere Levelston
Indiana State: Michael Thomas

Levelston is a disruptive force on the defensive line. He had 11 sacks and 16 tackles for loss last season. Thomas is a playmaker in the secondary. He had four interceptions and 10 pass breakups last season.

Don’t overlook Indiana State

Indiana State is a talented team that is capable of beating SMU. The Sycamores have a strong running game and a solid defense. SMU will need to be at their best to win this game.

Don’t get caught up in the hype

SMU is ranked 23rd in the nation, but they are still a young team with some question marks. Indiana State is a veteran team that knows how to win. SMU will need to play a mistake-free game to win this game.

Don’t take SMU lightly

SMU is a talented team with a lot of potential. The Mustangs have a high-powered offense and a solid defense. Indiana State will need to play a perfect game to beat SMU.

For SMU

A win over Indiana State would be a big statement for SMU. It would show that the Mustangs are a legitimate contender in the American Athletic Conference. A win would also give SMU a boost of confidence heading into a tough conference schedule.

For Indiana State

A win over SMU would be a huge upset. It would show that the Sycamores are a team to be reckoned with in the Missouri Valley Football Conference. A win would also give Indiana State a lot of momentum heading into the rest of the season.

For the Fans

The SMU-Indiana State rivalry is one of the most passionate in college football. The fans of both teams are known for their loyalty and enthusiasm. This game is sure to be a sellout and the atmosphere is sure to be electric.

The Pageantry

The SMU-Indiana State game is a spectacle. The bands, cheerleaders, and mascots from both schools create an unforgettable atmosphere.

The Tradition

The SMU-Indiana State rivalry is one of the oldest in college football. The two schools have a long and storied history of playing each other.

The Excitement

The SMU-Indiana State game is always a close and exciting contest. The two teams are always evenly matched and the outcome is always in doubt until the final whistle blows.

The Memories

The SMU-Indiana State game is a great way to create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you are a fan of SMU, Indiana State, or just college football in general, this is a game that you will not want to miss.

SMU vs. Indiana State Head-to-Head Record