SMU turned a competitive first half into a convincing offensive showcase Saturday at Gerald J. Ford Stadium, overcoming an early deficit against California with a second-half scoring surge led by quarterback Kevin Jennings and a productive group of running backs.
The Mustangs entered the game having won their previous two home contests against Boston College and Virginia without reaching 30 points. Against Cal, their offense found a different gear after halftime.
California opened the game with an impressive touchdown drive behind quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele. A long completion to Ian Strong helped move the Golden Bears downfield before Chase Hendricks scored on a 10-yard receiver screen.
SMU answered with a field goal, but Cal's early offensive execution kept the Mustangs under pressure.
Jennings eventually found an opening in the passing game, delivering a 22-yard touchdown pass to Kendrick Raphael to give SMU its first touchdown of the afternoon.
California responded with creative play-calling, including a direct snap to tight end Mason Mini, who powered across the goal line for a touchdown.
The Golden Bears continued moving the football through a combination of short passes and well-designed plays, while SMU countered with Raphael's rushing and Jennings' ability to extend possessions.
Raphael scored on a fourth-down run, helping the Mustangs remain within striking distance.
Cal also generated scoring opportunities late in the first half, with Strong making another important reception and the Golden Bears converting a 37-yard field goal.
The second half, however, belonged overwhelmingly to SMU.
The Mustangs opened the third quarter with a touchdown drive capped by Christian Rhodes, who found room near the goal line and crossed into the end zone.
With SMU leading 24-20, the Mustangs' defense began disrupting California's offense. After producing nearly 250 yards in the first half, the Golden Bears managed only five yards on their first two possessions after halftime.
SMU capitalized immediately.
Jennings connected with Derek McFall on a precisely placed touchdown pass toward the corner of the end zone, extending the Mustangs' advantage.
Rhodes continued providing production on the ground, scoring twice more as SMU repeatedly found openings against the California defense.
Raphael also added another short touchdown run, giving the Mustangs multiple reliable scoring options near the goal line.
The passing game remained effective as Jennings delivered a 17-yard touchdown to Jaylan Hale in the back of the end zone. The reception gave Hale touchdowns in consecutive games after a lengthy stretch without reaching the end zone.
With the outcome increasingly secure, SMU turned to additional personnel. Backup quarterback Hawkins broke free for a substantial run, and freshman running back EJ Kelly added another touchdown.
The contrast between the two halves defined the contest.
California's offense had success early with misdirection, short passes and effective execution. But once SMU's defense began forcing negative plays, the Golden Bears struggled to sustain possessions.
Meanwhile, the Mustangs combined Jennings' accuracy with a rushing attack that featured contributions from Raphael, Rhodes and Kelly.
For SMU coach Rhett Lashlee, the performance demonstrated the offensive depth available to the Mustangs as they continued their ACC schedule.
The victory also strengthened SMU's case for a higher national ranking, with the broadcast suggesting the Mustangs could move into the top 20.
