The TCU Horned Frogs (2-0) of the Big 12 and SMU Mustangs (2-1) of the ACC face off in Amon G. Carter Stadium for the 104th and final Battle for the Iron Skillet. The rivalry showdown between Fort Worth and Dallas programs is one of the oldest and most-played college football contests, dating back to 1915.
SMU won the 2024 game in Dallas as part of its best season in nearly 40 years, eventually leading to participation in the ACC Championship game and participation in the first ever 12-team College
Football Playoff. The Mustangs dominated that game, creating an abundance of turnovers and scoring 66 points as the Frogs were unable to maintain its composure, including TCU head coach Sonny Dykes being ejected in the 2nd half. QB Kevin Jennings returns for SMU and has already thrown for 836 yards with 6 TDs and 3 interceptions through three games.
The Horned Frogs are led by quarterback Josh Hoover, completing over 76% of his passes on the season for 621 yards, 6 TDs, and 1 interception. The breakout star on the receiving end of Hoover’s throws has been Jordan Dwyer, the Idaho transfer WR has made the leap to FBS and directly to the top of the depth chart, earning 225 yards and 2 TDs on 14 catches so far this season. The TCU defense has looked improved from the unit that got shredded by the Ponies last season, though it likely has not yet faced an opponent with the skill talent of SMU. The defense scored two touchdowns of its own against UNC and has already accumulated six sacks, led by Washington State Ansel Din-Mbuh. With wins over North Carolina and Abilene Christian, TCU gets one more test before Big 12 play begins on Friday at defending conference champions Arizona State.
Who will get to hold onto the Iron Skillet trophy with a forever “scoreboard” over its metroplex rival? Join the conversation in the comment section below as we ride the game day rollercoaster together. Go Frogs!
