The 7 most important offensive players for SMU Football in 2024

As SMU embarks on its inaugural season in the ACC, the Mustangs will be relying on a core group of offensive players to make a splash in their new conference. These seven players stand out as the most crucial to SMU's offensive success in 2024:

Preston Stone, QB

Sep 23, 2023; Fort Worth, Texas, USA; SMU Mustangs quarterback Preston Stone (2) in action during the game between the TCU Horned Frogs and the SMU Mustangs at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports | Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Stone is the undisputed leader of the offense. After recovering from an injury last season, the dual-threat quarterback is expected to showcase his full potential as a passer and a runner. His ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground will be instrumental in SMU's offensive scheme.

Justin Osborne, OT

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33: "@osborne_justin1 is at center because of the position's leadership requirements."#PonyUpDallas @SMUFB @rhettlashlee

✍️ @Carter_Yates16 https://t.co/NFQaH6vNEC
— Dave Campbell's Texas Football — TexasFootball.com (@dctf) July 27, 2024

The offensive line's success will hinge on Osborne's performance at left tackle. His ability to protect Stone's blindside and create running lanes for running back Jaylan Knighton will be crucial for the entire offense to function effectively.

Jaylan Knighton, RB

SMU — Dec 28, 2023; Boston, MA, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs running back Jaylan Knighton (4) makes a catch against the Boston College Eagles during the first half at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports | Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

Speaking of Knighton, the dynamic running back is poised for a breakout season. Knighton possesses a rare blend of speed, agility, and power, making him a threat to score every time he touches the ball. With an increased workload, he could become one of the top running backs in the conference.

RJ Maryland, TE

Oct 20, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; SMU Mustangs tight end RJ Maryland (82) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Temple Owls during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports | Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

Maryland is a versatile tight end who can line up in various positions and create mismatches for opposing defenses. His reliable hands and ability to block make him a valuable asset in both the passing and running game.

Jordan Hudson, WR

Oct 20, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Temple Owls safety Brenyen Scott (14) tackles SMU Mustangs wide receiver Jordan Hudson (8) after making a catch during the second half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports | Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

Hudson is a big-play receiver with the potential to be a game-changer. His speed and route-running skills make him a difficult matchup for any cornerback. Expect him to be Stone's primary target in the passing game.

Moochie Dixon, WR

SMU — Sep 9, 2023; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs wide receiver Moochie Dixon (5) is tackled by Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Danny Stutsman (28) and Oklahoma Sooners defensive back Gentry Williams (9) during the first quarter at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports | Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Dixon is another explosive receiver who can stretch the field and open up opportunities for the offense. His ability to make contested catches and gain yards after the catch adds another dimension to SMU's passing attack.

Brashard Smith, RB

SMU — Nov 18, 2023; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Hurricanes wide receiver Brashard Smith (0) runs with the football against the Louisville Cardinals during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports | Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Brashard Smith is expected to be a significant contributor to SMU Football in 2024. He is a versatile player with experience as a receiver, running back, and return specialist. His speed and quickness are expected to make him a threat in multiple areas of the game.

Brashard Smith’s kick off return was art. Poetry in motion. Football in its purest form. What a thing of beauty. pic.twitter.com/S5JKsiJmgr
— UinMiami (@UinMiami) September 12, 2023

With this talented group of players, SMU's offense has the potential to be one of the most explosive in the ACC. If they can stay healthy and execute their game plan, the Mustangs could surprise a lot of people in their new conference.

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