SMU football promotes Casey Horny and Justin March to lead special teams after a breakout season highlighted by standout play from Sam Keltner.
SMU football is doubling down on one of its quiet strengths ... special teams.
Head coach Rhett Lashlee announced key promotions within the Mustangs’ staff, elevating Casey Horny to Special Teams Coordinator and Justin March to Assistant Special Teams Coordinator as the program looks to build on recent success in the kicking and return game.
The move signals confidence in a unit that has steadily improved over the past several seasons and played a key role in SMU’s rise in the ACC.
Horny brings more than 20 years of college football experience and has already been deeply involved with the Mustangs’ special teams development.
Lashlee believes the promotion will bring continuity and momentum to a unit that has produced standout performances in recent seasons.
And the numbers back it up. In 2025, redshirt freshman kicker Sam Keltner delivered a breakout campaign, converting 36-of-38 extra points while knocking through 14 field goals. His performance earned ACC Specialist of the Week honors after a clutch showing in SMU’s statement 35–24 win over Clemson.
Meanwhile, punter Wade McSparron quickly made his presence felt. In his first collegiate season, McSparron logged 55 punts for 2,337 yards, tying for second in the ACC with five touchbacks and earning recognition on the prestigious Ray Guy Award “Ray’s 8” watch list.
SMU also found a weapon in the return game. Yamir Knight emerged as a dynamic punt returner, averaging 9.9 yards per return, ranking 24th nationally in FBS.
Justin March’s promotion adds a different layer of expertise.
The former NFL linebacker played seven seasons in the league, including four with the Dallas Cowboys, and built a reputation as a core special teams contributor. His recent coaching development with the San Francisco 49ers and Tennessee Titans exposed him to NFL-level special teams strategy.
Now back on the Hilltop, March pairs pro-level experience with Horny’s college coaching background.
For Lashlee and SMU, the message is clear: special teams aren’t just an afterthought—they’re a weapon.