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Rhett Lashlee news
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The gist
SMU coach Rhett Lashlee says he's shocked his team is favored by 3.5 points over Florida State. He believes the Mustangs should be a 7-10 point underdog on the road.
Background
SMU and Florida State are set to open their seasons against each other on Labor Day in an ACC matchup. SMU enters as a 3.5-point favorite, but head coach Rhett Lashlee is surprised by the line, citing Florida State's talent and the challenge of playing on the road in a hostile environment. Lashlee's comments come as SMU aims to avoid another slow start, having previously struggled in early-season road games.
How it unfolded
- Sep 3, 2026Rhett Lashlee expresses shock that SMU is favored over Florida State, saying he doesn't know how they aren't a 7-10 point underdog.
- Sep 4, 2026Lashlee reveals that safety Ahmaad Moses has not yet been medically cleared for the season opener.
- Sep 6, 2026Dallas News publishes an article explaining Lashlee's reasoning for why SMU should be underdogs, citing their daunting early schedule and past slow starts.
Who’s saying what
- Coach
- Rhett Lashlee believes SMU should be a 7-10 point underdog, not a 3.5-point favorite, due to Florida State's talent and the hostile road environment.
- Analysts
- Some analysts question why SMU is only a 3.5-point favorite over a Florida State team that didn't look convincing against New Mexico State.