Lia Assimakopoulos

The Mustangs sold out back-to-back home games for the first time this century. UNIVERSITY PARK — Scott Symons knows better than anyone how SMU's game day atmosphere has changed over the last two decades.

DALLAS — There was no guarantee Sam Steel's time in Dallas would extend past one season.

Steel, who Dallas re-signed over the summer to a one-year deal, continued to demonstrate his versatility in the win.

DALLAS — There was no guarantee Sam Steel's time in Dallas would extend past one season.

But after its 23-14 loss in last year's bowl game, SMU is seeking a different outcome. Here are three keys that will help the Mustangs achieve it.

The ACC and Big 12 each had just one team earn a spot in the preliminary top-12 rankings, while the Big Ten and SEC had four each.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Texas — SMU is familiar with the fight to prove it belongs among the best.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Texas — SMU is familiar with the fight to prove it belongs among the best.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Texas — SMU is familiar with the fight to prove it belongs among the best.

Poised for a challenge against a Boston College team that excels in running the football, SMU’s defensive line will get another chance to show their depth and...