Revenge looms as SMU hosts Cal. Last season's ACC title hopes dashed, this October showdown ignites payback, progress, and ACC momentum.
As SMU continues to settle into life in the ACC, one game on the Mustangs’ 2026 schedule stands out as more than just another conference matchup.
When Cal comes to Gerald J. Ford Stadium in October, it won’t just be about standings - it will be about payback, progress, and proving staying power in a new league.
Last season’s trip to Berkeley still lingers for SMU fans.
That loss effectively slammed the door on an ACC Championship appearance, turning what could have been a defining moment into a lingering “what if.” This time around, the Mustangs get the Bears at home, and that changes everything.
Ford Stadium has quickly developed into a tough place to play, and the environment alone should elevate the stakes.
Revenge games have become something of a calling card under head coach Rhett Lashlee. Time and again, his teams have shown an ability to respond with focus and urgency when a previous loss is still fresh in their minds. That history suggests SMU won’t overlook Cal, even if the schedule around it looks manageable on paper.
Cal, however, won’t arrive quietly. The Bears are expected to return quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, who took noticeable strides late last season as a freshman, and now enters the year with continuity and confidence.
Stability matters, especially in the ACC, and Cal’s decision to maintain consistency on the offensive side could pay dividends. The Bears are also battle-tested early, facing a demanding stretch before meeting SMU that should sharpen them well before October.
What makes this matchup intriguing is the contrast in trajectories. SMU has built momentum through roster continuity and a clear identity, while Cal appears to be pushing toward relevance with smart retention and incremental growth. That combination often produces games that feel closer than expected - the kind that swing on a late drive, a turnover, or a special teams play.
From a scheduling standpoint, SMU benefits from subtle built-in breathers throughout the season, even without multiple true bye weeks.
Those lighter stretches could be crucial in keeping players fresh for pivotal home games like this one.
Managing energy and health across a long ACC slate is a skill, and SMU’s staff seems increasingly comfortable navigating it.
Ultimately, this matchup feels like a measuring stick for both programs. For SMU, it’s a chance to show last season’s setback was a lesson, not a limitation. For Cal, it’s an opportunity to announce they’re no longer just a spoiler.
Either way, expect a tense, high-quality football game, and don’t be surprised if it comes down to the final possession.
In October, under the lights in Dallas, SMU vs. Cal could be one of the ACC’s most compelling showdowns.