SMU vs. Tulane Short Report | Dec 2, 2023
Yulman Stadium
New Orleans, LA
Dec 2, 2023
Upload a photo of you at this game and we'll create a commemorative ticket of it.
Game Recap
In a pivotal showdown in the American Athletic Championship, the SMU Mustangs emerged victorious over the Tulane Green Wave with a final score of 26-14. SMU's balanced offense, led by Kevin Jennings' steady performance at quarterback and Jaylan Knighton's effective ground game, coupled with a stifling defensive front, proved to be the difference. SMU's defense sacked Tulane's quarterback five times, disrupting their offensive rhythm and capturing their first AAC title. Tulane initially took the lead with a touchdown run by quarterback Michael Pratt, but SMU responded quickly with Jaylan Knighton's six-yard touchdown run to tie the game.
Kevin Jennings completed 19 of 33 passes for 203 yards, including a 17-yard touchdown to Key’Shawn Smith in the second quarter, giving SMU a 14-7 edge at halftime. Collin Rogers was a standout on special teams, converting four of five field goal attempts, including critical kicks from 48 yards and 32 yards in the second half to extend SMU's lead. Despite a valiant effort by Tulane, highlighted by Michael Pratt's passing and rushing touchdowns and Yulkeith Brown's spectacular 42-yard touchdown reception, the team couldn't overcome SMU’s relentless pressure. A late-game sack by Isaiah Smith sealed the victory for the Mustangs, thwarting any hope of a Tulane comeback.
Key Plays:
Michael Pratt (Tulane)
Michael Pratt's 1-yard touchdown run capped off an impressive opening drive, establishing early momentum for Tulane with a 7-0 lead.
Jaylan Knighton (SMU)
Jaylan Knighton tied the game 7-7 with a 6-yard touchdown rush, effectively responding to Tulane's early score.
Key'Shawn Smith (SMU)
Key'Shawn Smith secured a 17-yard touchdown pass from Kevin Jennings, giving SMU a vital 14-7 halftime lead.
Yulkeith Brown (Tulane)
Yulkeith Brown's 42-yard touchdown reception electrified the third quarter, tying the game at 14-14 and energizing the Tulane sideline.
Collin Rogers (SMU)
Collin Rogers drilled a 48-yard field goal, pushing SMU ahead 17-14 and reclaiming the lead in a closely contested match.
Collin Rogers (SMU)
Collin Rogers' 32-yard field goal in the fourth quarter extended SMU's advantage to 23-14, creating a two-possession buffer.
Isaiah Smith (SMU)
Isaiah Smith's pivotal sack of Michael Pratt for an 8-yard loss crippled Tulane's late-game drive, cementing SMU's control in the closing minutes.
Standout Players:
Kevin Jennings (SMU, QB)
Composed and effective, Jennings completed 19 of 33 passes for 203 yards and a touchdown, adding 63 crucial rushing yards, delivering under pressure despite two interceptions.
Jaylan Knighton (SMU, RB)
Consistently moved the chains with 75 rushing yards on 15 attempts and scored a critical touchdown, solidifying SMU's ground attack.
Collin Rogers (SMU, K)
Rogers was clutch with four field goals, including pivotal kicks from 48 and 32 yards, securing SMU’s lead and contributing 14 points.
Isaiah Smith (SMU, DE)
Smith's relentless pressure resulted in 2.5 sacks, disrupting Tulane's offense and sealing the game with a critical late-game sack.
Michael Pratt (Tulane, QB)
Despite constant pressure, Pratt threw for 238 yards, added a touchdown through the air, and scored on the ground, showcasing resilience and playmaking ability.
Yulkeith Brown (Tulane, WR)
Brown's dynamic play included a 42-yard touchdown grab, part of his five-catch, 90-yard effort, keeping Tulane in contention.
References:
SMU Mustangs vs. Tulane Green Wave - Final Score - December 02, 2023 | FOX Sports
SMU Mustangs vs. Tulane Green Wave Live Score and Stats - December 2, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
Source
SMU Mustangs vs. Tulane Green Wave Box Score and Stats - December 02, 2023 | FOX Sports
SMU handles Tulane 26-14, rides into the sunset with first AAC championship - Underdog Dynasty
Team
1
2
3
4
T
SMU Mustangs
7
7
3
9
26
Tulane Green Wave
7
0
7
0
14
