TCU @ SMU

Scouting Report for TCU Horned Frogs(3-0) vs. SMU Mustangs (1-2)
September 29, 2012- Gerald Ford Stadium, University Park,TX

TCU: The Horned Frogs have had some quality wins to start against struggling offenses this season. There was Grambling State of the FCS. Then came Kansas and their chemistry issues. And then there's the QB situation with Virginia last week. They'll have a shot at another struggling quarterback when they head across the Metroplex.

Last week against the Cavaliers (27-7 win), the Frogs had a great game across the board. Casey Pachall was his usual self (21-32, 305 YDS, 3 TD and 1 INT) and Josh Boykin became TCU's all time receiving TD leader with 18 in the second quarter. Brandon Carter was also a factor when he caught 5 passes for 128 YDS and a touchdown. Kenny Cain had a great game on the defensive end with 2 INTs. The Cavalier offense didn't look confident all game long under QB Mike Rocco. The defense allowed their 1st touchddown of the season when Philip Sims spelled Rocco in the 4th quarter.

SMU: With the bye coming last week, the Mustangs should be prepared to face the high powered Horned Frogs. Especially since they've had time to digest their ugly 48-3 loss to Texas A&M back in week 3.

The good news was that the Ponies held the Aggies scoreless in the first quarter. Margus Hunt blocked an extra point and recorded his first sack of the season. But Garrett Gilbert (23-49, 203 YDS 1 INT) wasn't able to put together any scoring drives. Zach Line rushed for 104 yards on 16 carries. The SMU defense was nowhere to be found as Johnny Manziell had 418 all purpose yards and 6 TDS (4 passing).

What to watch for: The only way for SMU to keep this game close is for Gilbert to showcase his running ability. In the games against Baylor and Texas A&M, those defenses were able to get pressure on him when he was in the pocket. Especially with TCU's high power defense coming to town. The Horned Frogs allowed 169 yards on the ground last week and Line shouldn't be the only one handling the load.

Conclusion: Last year, the Ponies beat the Frogs 40-33 for the Iron Skillet. Two things to remember in that one. First, TCU came from behind to force overtime. And second, had Carter made that catch, then who knows. But this is a different season and both teams are going in different directions. This game has potential of being another thriller from last year, but that's all going to depend on Gilbert's decision making.

Prediction: TCU by 21.

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