UPDATE: In a stunning comeback, Southern Methodist University (SMU) defeated No. 21 Arizona 24-19 in the Holiday Bowl on December 29, 2023, at Snapdragon Stadium. This victory marks a significant milestone for the Mustangs, snapping a five-game postseason losing streak and securing their first postseason win since 2012.
Quarterback Kevin Jennings led the charge for SMU, throwing for 278 yards and completing 21 of 32 passes. Notably, he executed a dazzling 80-yard touchdown play on just the second snap of the game, setting the tone for the Mustangs’ impressive performance.
SMU dominated early, leading 24-0 at halftime, thanks to touchdown runs by T.J. Harden and Stone Eby, along with a 24-yard field goal by Sam Keltner. The Mustangs scored on four of their first five possessions, showcasing a powerful offense that overwhelmed Arizona in the first half.
Despite a rocky second half where Jennings threw three interceptions, Arizona struggled to capitalize. Quarterback Noah Fifita attempted a late-game comeback, throwing three touchdown passes, including a 15-yard pass to Cameron Barmore with just 33 seconds remaining. However, SMU recovered the ensuing onside kick, sealing their hard-fought victory.
The emotional weight of this game extends beyond the scoreboard. For SMU fans, this win eases the pain of the infamous 1980 Holiday Bowl loss, where the Mustangs blew a late lead against BYU in one of college football’s wildest finishes.
As both teams finish the season at 9-4, Arizona falls short of achieving their second 10-win season in three years. The game not only highlights the resilience of the Mustangs but also emphasizes the loyalty of both quarterbacks, Jennings and Fifita, who have chosen to remain at their respective schools despite the pressures of the transfer portal and NIL era.
Looking ahead, college football fans will be watching closely as both teams prepare for the next season, with renewed hope and determination following this thrilling Holiday Bowl encounter.
This intense battle has captured the attention of college football enthusiasts and will undoubtedly spark discussions as fans reflect on the significance of this year’s postseason matchups.
