We've already examined a few breakout candidates and key storylines for SMU's upcoming season. Now let's go over what the best- and worst-case scenarios for the Mustangs look like heading into 2018.
Best-case scenario
SMU's defense steps up quickly, contains North Texas quarterback Mason Fine and the Mustangs walk out of Denton with a Week 1 victory. Spirited efforts against TCU and Michigan allow SMU to carry momentum into Week 4's game vs. Navy, where the Mustangs do a much better job of defending the triple-option and steal an upset win at home.