Dallas, Texas, November 24, 2025
The Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs are on the brink of securing a spot in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Championship Game. Their upcoming game against the University of California (Cal) will determine their fate. A win would guarantee their participation, marking an impressive achievement in their first season in the ACC. However, if they lose, their chances depend on the outcomes of other conference matchups. The stakes are high as SMU aims to solidify its standing in the conference.
Dallas, Texas – SMU’s Path to the ACC Championship Game
The Southern Methodist University (SMU) Mustangs are on the verge of securing a spot in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Championship Game, with their fate resting on the outcome of their upcoming game against the University of California (Cal) Golden Bears. A victory in this matchup would guarantee SMU’s participation in the championship, marking a significant achievement in their inaugural season within the ACC.
Current Standings and Scenarios
As of November 24, 2025, the ACC standings are as follows:
- Georgia Tech: 9-1 overall, 6-1 in conference play
- Virginia: 7-3 overall, 5-1 in conference play
- SMU: 7-3 overall, 5-1 in conference play
- Pitt: 7-3 overall, 5-1 in conference play
- Miami: 8-2 overall, 4-2 in conference play
SMU’s path to the ACC Championship Game is straightforward: a win against Cal would secure their spot. However, if SMU loses to Cal, their chances depend on the outcomes of other conference games:
- If Virginia loses to Virginia Tech and Pitt loses to Miami, a complex tiebreaker scenario involving multiple teams with a 6-2 conference record would ensue. In this case, the combined win percentage of conference opponents would be the determining factor. Currently, SMU’s conference opponent win percentage stands at 24-35 (.407), which is lower than that of Virginia (25-34, .424) and Pitt (24-36, .400). This suggests that SMU’s chances in such a tiebreaker scenario are slim.
Implications of the Upcoming Game
The game against Cal is pivotal for SMU. A win would not only guarantee their participation in the ACC Championship Game but also solidify their position as a formidable team in their first year within the conference. Conversely, a loss would leave their championship aspirations in the hands of other teams’ performances, making the outcome of the Cal game crucial to their postseason prospects.
Background Context
SMU joined the ACC in 2024, marking a new chapter in the program’s history. Their performance this season has been impressive, with a strong conference record placing them in contention for the championship. The Mustangs’ journey reflects their resilience and adaptability as they navigate the challenges of a new conference environment.
Looking Ahead
As the regular season concludes, all eyes are on SMU’s upcoming game against Cal. The outcome will determine whether the Mustangs will have the opportunity to compete for the ACC Championship, a testament to their hard work and determination throughout the season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does SMU need to do to secure a spot in the ACC Championship Game?
SMU must win their upcoming game against Cal to guarantee their participation in the ACC Championship Game.
What happens if SMU loses to Cal?
If SMU loses to Cal, their chances of reaching the ACC Championship Game depend on the outcomes of other conference games, particularly those involving Virginia and Pitt.
How does the tiebreaker system work in the ACC?
The ACC uses a series of tiebreakers, including head-to-head results and the combined win percentage of conference opponents, to determine standings when teams have identical records.
What is SMU’s current conference record?
SMU currently holds a 5-1 record in conference play.
When is SMU’s game against Cal?
The game is scheduled for November 30, 2025, at 2:30 PM Central Time.
Key Features of SMU’s ACC Championship Scenarios
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Conference Record | 5-1 |
| Upcoming Opponent | Cal Golden Bears |
| Game Date and Time | November 30, 2025, at 2:30 PM Central Time |
| Required Outcome for Championship Berth | Win against Cal |
| Potential Tiebreaker Scenario | If SMU loses to Cal, depends on outcomes of Virginia and Pitt games |
Now Happening on X
- @CBSNewsTexas (November 24, 2025, 11:02 AM) – Breaking overnight: Police are investigating a shooting involving an officer in Downtown Dallas, with no details yet on involvement or injuries. View on X
- @wfaa (November 24, 2025, 10:41 AM) – There is a large police presence in Downtown Dallas with some areas blocked off due to an officer-involved shooting, officials say. View on X
- @wfaa (November 24, 2025, 11:55 AM) – Update: Dallas police officials say an armed suspect and one other person are dead after a shooting involving police in Downtown Dallas. View on X
- @KRLD (November 24, 2025, 11:37 AM) – A huge police presence floods Downtown Dallas overnight, with reports of as many as 2 people killed and 2 injured; awaiting official word from Dallas Police. View on X
- @mytexasdaily (November 24, 2025, 11:38 AM) – Dallas police respond to multiple incidents, including robbery and stabbing. View on X
- @DallasPD (November 22, 2025, 2:01 AM) – Dallas Police are investigating an incident in the 8600 block of North Central Expressway caused by an unknown suspect; no shooting or injuries reported. View on X
- @FOX4 (November 22, 2025, 6:00 PM) – Dallas police said one person was killed and another was wounded in an early Saturday morning shooting. View on X
- @FOX4 (November 23, 2025, 2:30 AM) – Dallas police said one person was killed and another was wounded in an early Saturday morning shooting. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Dallas Mavericks Prepare for December Basketball Season
Dallas Wings Initiate Organizational Changes After Poor Season
Fore The 24 Golf Tournament Raises Over $200,000 for Recovery Services
Dallas Area High School Football Prospects Shine
Alberca Olimpica Cancun Dominates at Dallas Mustangs Meet
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
