SMU enters a transitional year with a new coaching staff and a lot of inexperienced players taking on larger roles this season. There are also veterans taking the next steps in their careers and a new mentality on defense.
With an eye toward the fall, here are five reasons for SMU fans to be pessimistic about the team heading into the 2018 season. If you missed it, here are five reasons to be optimistic about the Mustangs.
1. Transitioning
This is in no means a dig at Sonny Dykes and his new coaching staff, but when a new head coach comes into any program, it can take some time for the team to adjust.