DALLAS- With the start of the 2009 season a little over two months away, the SMU football team is gaining the attention of several news outlets. As the 2009 preseason magazines and Web site previews begin to surface, SMU is being mentioned prominently.
The Sporting News’ Matt Hayes names the Mustangs as his No. 2 team that he believes will show the most improvement in the win column from 2008 to 2009. “Those who stuck it out ... will be rewarded this fall,” writes Hayes. “(June) Jones has a better feel for his players and Conference USA, and his two recruiting classes are beginning to shape the roster. Half of the Mustangs’ eight league losses last year were by seven points or fewer, and QB Bo Levi Mitchell will be more comfortable in the run-and-shoot offense.”
Phil Steele’s College Football Preview, which will hit newsstands June 9th, will honor seven Mustangs as members of its four 2009 preseason All-Conference USA teams.
Leading the way is Emmanuel Sanders, who was chosen as a first-team wide receiver. Fellow wide receiver Aldrick Robinson, linebacker Pete Fleps and corner Bryan McCann were second-team picks, while center Mitch Enright and linebacker Youri Yenga were third-teamers. Quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell also made the list, rating the fourth-team quarterback.