Pony up — Southern Methodist University and the University of Pittsburgh football teams are set to play each other at the 2024 homecoming game, recreating a historic Cotton Bowl Classic match-up from 1982. Let’s dive into the history of the game and why its stands out.
A blast from the past
If you’re unfamiliar with the 1982 game, the Mustangs went head-to-head against the Panthers and won the game 7-3. The game was a uniquely low-scoring game, and both teams focused heavily on defense. The key players on the SMU football team were running backs Eric Dickerson and Craig James, while Pitt was headed up by quarterback icon Dan Marino.
The origin of the “Pony Express”
Running backs Dickerson and James set a new standard with their running game and the dynamic duo became known as the “Pony Express.”
What’s the big deal?
This year’s game in Dallas recreates the scene from 1982 when SMU’s football team dominated the scene. The match-up is a close one — both teams have won their last five games, and SMU (No. 22) is sitting at 7-1 with seven wins and one loss, while Pitt (No. 19) is 7-0. Plus, the Mustangs were inducted into the Atlantic Coast Conference in July 2024, joining the national conference’s lineup of distinguished collegiate athletic programs, which includes Pitt.
Where to watch the game
This year’s homecoming game will take place Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. at SMU’s Gerald J. Ford Stadium. According to a tweet from SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee, student tickets for the game sold out in 19 minutes.
To get tickets, check out the SMU website. If you don’t have a ticket, don’t worry — the game will be broadcast on ACC Network. You can also stream the game live on Fubo.
