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Pony Express SMU ('98: 5-7; 4-4 WAC)
Posted: Wednesday August 18, 1999 09:04 PM
The plot
The quarterback (would-be junior Chris Sanders) jumped ship, transferring to Chattanooga, but Josh McCown is probably better. And doesn't SMU win with defense anyway? RB Rodnick Phillips' 1998 season gave fans flashbacks of the early-80s Mustang glory days starring Eric Dickerson and Reggie Dupard. The Pony Express rides again. But will graduation losses on the defensive line pull this pony up lame?
The directorMike Cavan -- second season, 11-12; 78-61-2 overall
StarringRB Rodnick Phillips -- Bold prediction: Phillips (1,115 yards in 1998) will rush for 1,500 yards in '99.LB Jason Simonton -- Why the Mustangs gave up just 12.7 points per game over their final eight games.
Co-starringQB Josh McCown -- Pro' DUK' shun: noun; 11 touchdowns in just five starts.OT Jerry Chavira -- Leads the WAC's most experienced offensive line and should become Phillips' favorite friend.
Why it will workThe Mustangs' line can open holes the size of the Grand Canyon, and Phillips should have no problem gliding through.
Why it won't workLast year's standout secondary, which held opponents to a WAC-low (and 12th-ranked nationally) 103.8 pass efficiency rating, has been gutted. Which means while you can't get through the Mustangs, you can go over them.Our critic's review**
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