1. At SMU – November 22
Louisville’s trip to Dallas could end up being the biggest swing game of the season. Both teams enter 2025 with similar expectations, and this late-November showdown may ultimately decide who earns a spot in Charlotte. Like the Cardinals, SMU has three marquee ACC matchups left—Clemson, Miami, and Louisville. If the Mustangs go 2–1 in those games, they’ll have a clear advantage in the standings. The same can be said for Louisville, making this essentially a head-to-head elimination game.
The difference is that SMU hasn’t looked nearly as explosive as they did last season. In 2024, quarterback Kevin Jennings led an offense that finished seventh nationally in scoring (36+ points per game) and carried the Mustangs to both the ACC Championship and the College Football Playoff. This year, the offense has slipped to 38th, and they already have a non-conference loss to Baylor. The potential is still there, but they no longer look like the unstoppable unit they were a year ago.
The schedule only adds to the challenge. SMU faces Clemson, Miami, and Louisville in just a six-week span with only one bye week to recover. By the time November 22 arrives, both teams may be battered, but the stakes will be higher than ever. For Louisville, this is the definition of a must-win. If the Cardinals want to play for trophies in December, leaving Dallas with a victory is non-negotiable.
Related: Louisville football fans erupt as ACC Title dreams soar after Clemson’s second loss
Louisville and Bowling Green will kick off at noon ET.