SMU Quarterback Preston Stone Excited for New Challenge in ACC
SMU quarterback Preston Stone is gearing up for a new challenge as his team transitions to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) for the 2024 college football season. Speaking at ACC Media Days in Charlotte, Stone expressed his excitement for the opportunity to compete in a power-conference like the ACC.
The Mustangs, led by Stone and coach Rhett Lashlee, are making the move to the ACC along with fellow newcomers Cal and Stanford. Despite the program’s recent lack of success in terms of football tradition, SMU has a storied history in the Southwest Conference, where they competed against powerhouse programs like Texas, Texas A&M, and Arkansas.
Coach Lashlee emphasized the importance of SMU’s return to the national stage, highlighting the program’s rich history and tradition. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete in the ACC and acknowledged the challenges that come with playing against top-tier competition week in and week out.
SMU is coming off a successful 11-3 season in which they won the American Athletic Conference championship. While the team hasn’t won a bowl game since 2012, their recent success has instilled confidence in their ability to compete at a higher level in the ACC.
To prepare for the jump in competition, SMU has bolstered its roster with 20 incoming transfers, 13 of whom play on the offensive or defensive line. Coach Lashlee is aware of the challenges that lie ahead, particularly with tough matchups against Florida State and Louisville early in the season.
Stone, a Dallas native, is eager to lead his team in their new conference. Reflecting on his childhood memories of attending SMU games, Stone is grateful for the opportunity to play quarterback for his hometown school in the ACC.
As SMU embarks on this new chapter in their football program, Stone and his teammates are focused on proving themselves against top competition. With a mix of excitement and determination, the Mustangs are ready to make their mark in the ACC.
–Field Level Media
