Sep 203 min read

Mustangs Look to Capture Iron Skillet From Horned Frogs

Updated: Sep 21

SMU Mustangs host the TCU Horned Frogs Saturday, Sept. 21 at 5:00 PM EST — © Jerome Miron Imagn Images

The Southern Methodist University Mustangs (2-1) are hosting the 103rd Battle for the Iron Skillet. The Mustangs have dropped the last two matchups and the Texas Christian Horned Frogs (2-1) are prepared to keep controlling this century-long rivalry. Will the Mustangs avenge last year’s loss or will TCU hold on to the Iron Skillet for a third year? Find out on the CW Network at 5:00 p.m. EST on Saturday, Sept. 21.

History of the Iron Skillet

Multiple stories float through football lore about the origins of the Battle for the Iron Skillet. The rivalry dates back to 1915 when TCU dominated the Mustangs 43-0. One story depicts a wager between opposing tailgaters involving the skillet and some frog legs. The other is a more civil tale of the SMU and TCU student councils agreeing to the idea of an iron skillet going to the winner of the annual game. No matter the version one chooses to believe, the history of this game tells a story of TCU getting the best of the Mustangs and this interstate rivalry game.

The Horned Frogs currently lead the series 53-42-7.

Mustangs Change Quarterbacks

The Mustangs are coming off a tough loss last week and another sporadic offensive performance. Outside of their Week 2 performance vs. Houston Christian, an inferior FCS opponent, the Mustangs' offense has failed to find the end zone more than three times. SMU’s offense has struggled to find consistency this season and QB Preston Stone has struggled against FBS defenses. QB Kevin Jennings, who was originally splitting snaps with Stone, was named the starter moving forward this season. Jennings must use his ability to escape the pocket and play on the run to compensate for a struggling offensive line.

Mustangs Key Players

Offensive Line- after struggling last week vs. BYU (3-0) and allowing countless QB pressures in 2 of 3 games, the OL has to put together a complete game and give the offense the time it needs to execute plays.

QB Kevin Jennings- in his first official start, Jennings needs to bring confidence and consistency to the most vital position and lead the Mustangs offense with poise.

SMU Mustangs QB Kevin Jennings is getting his first start in the Battle for the Iron Skillet — © Jerome Miron Imagn Images

Horned Frogs Air Raid

The Horned Frogs are recovering from a fourth quarter meltdown against UCF (3-0). Despite last week’s results, the Horned Frogs have easily moved the ball on offense, primarily with the passing game. QB Josh Hoover is driving secondaries mad with his accuracy and mistake-free play. Hoover has thrown for over 1,000 yards and 8 touchdowns this season and is currently ranked as the No. 3 QB by ESPN. Hoover is spreading the ball to a group of talented wide receivers led by seniors Jack Bech and Savion Williams. Bech is averaging 20.6 yards per catch and Williams has found pay dirt 3 times this season.

Horned Frogs Key Players

QB Josh Hoover- Hoover has been one of the NCAA’s top-performing QBs this season. Expect continued great play from Hoover as he challenges the Mustang’s secondary for the entire game.

WR Savion Williams- Although Williams had 2 TDs in TCU’s last outing, he only had 37 receiving yards. Expect Williams to be more aggressive in exploiting an overmatched secondary.

Mustangs vs. Horned Frogs

Looking at these teams and their respective results this season, one could surmise that these opponents are the same. However, this is not the infamous meme where Spiderman is pointing at his doppelganger. The only similarity between the Mustangs and the Horned Frogs is the number of letters to abbreviate their team names. The Mustangs are facing their toughest opponent to date and the Horned Frogs’ experience and athleticism will help them control the second half of this game.

The Battle for the Iron Skillet will be an exciting game and the Mustangs will fall short in a competitive contest. Expect TCU to win this interstate rivalry and enjoy their 40-mile drive back to campus. The Mustangs will fall short by 10 points in this contest. Final score Horned Frogs 37, Mustangs 27.