Coming into the 2024 season, the SMU Mustangs found themselves in a thrilling quarterback battle between Preston Stone and Kevin Jennings. This competition was not just about who would take the first snap; it was a clash of talent, determination, and the future of the program. Ultimately, Jennings emerged victorious, earning the full-time starting position, while Stone transitioned into the backup role.
Preston Stone’s Journey at SMU
Preston Stone arrived at SMU as a highly-touted four-star recruit in the Class of 2021, ranked as the 14th-best quarterback in his recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. His recruitment was spearheaded by Rhett Lashlee, who was the offensive coordinator at the time. Stone’s college career was marked by impressive statistics; he played in 28 games, completing 59.3 percent of his passes for 4,030 yards, 35 touchdowns, and only eight interceptions. Additionally, he showcased his athleticism by rushing for 287 yards and six touchdowns.
The Impact of Injuries
However, the road was not always smooth for Stone. An unfortunate injury in 2023 sidelined him during the crucial AAC Championship Game, which opened the door for Jennings to seize his opportunity. This injury not only changed the dynamics of the team but also set the stage for the intense competition that would unfold in 2024. Both quarterbacks returned, and the battle for the starting position was fierce, ultimately leading to Jennings being named the starter.
Stone’s Departure and New Beginnings
As the Transfer Portal opened up, Stone made the decision to leave SMU, seeking new opportunities in the Big Ten with the Northwestern Wildcats. His announcement on social media was met with an outpouring of support from fans and coaches alike. Lashlee took to social media to express his gratitude for Stone’s contributions to the program.
“Thank you for your leadership and giving everything you have to SMU and SMU Football over the past four years. Forever a Mustang! Go be great @_prestonstone,” Lashlee posted, highlighting the bond and respect that had developed over the years.
SMU’s Playoff Journey
Despite the quarterback shuffle, SMU made a significant run to the College Football Playoff. However, the playoff game did not go as planned. Jennings struggled on the field, and even with Stone still part of the program, Lashlee opted not to switch back to him. Instead, he brought in Keldric Luster for some playing time, a decision that raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
“After Kevin threw the last touchdown? Felt like that was a good way to finish, as good a way to finish the day as we could the way it went,” Lashlee explained postgame. “We talked to Preston. It was his option and, look, I get it. Just like, at that point, we didn’t want Kevin to go back in and get hurt. You know, we don’t want him to go into the offseason hurt. Preston’s about to have an opportunity to go play somewhere else, and in fairness to him, it would be a shame to roll him out there for a drive or two that doesn’t have an impact on the game and him get hurt.”
A New Chapter for Preston Stone
With the conclusion of the playoff game, SMU’s season came to an end, marking the end of an era for Stone at the university. His time with the Mustangs was filled with highs and lows, but he leaves with a legacy of resilience and talent. Now, as he transitions to Northwestern, Stone has the chance to make a significant impact in the Big Ten, a conference known for its competitive nature and storied programs.
What does the future hold for Preston Stone? With a fresh start and a new team, he has the opportunity to showcase his skills on a bigger stage. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how he adapts to his new environment and whether he can lead Northwestern to success.
The Future of SMU Football
As for SMU, the program is at a crossroads. With Jennings stepping into the starting role, the Mustangs will look to build on their playoff experience and continue to develop as a competitive force in college football. The coaching staff, led by Lashlee, faces the challenge of maintaining momentum while integrating new talent and refining their strategy.
In this ever-evolving landscape of college football, one thing is certain: the passion for the game remains unwavering. Whether it’s the thrill of a quarterback battle, the excitement of a playoff run, or the anticipation of new beginnings, college football continues to captivate fans across the nation. As we look ahead, the stories of players like Preston Stone and teams like SMU will undoubtedly shape the future of the sport we all love.
