The SMU Mustangs set a school record for points as they thrashed the Houston Cougars, 72-42. The Mustangs were able to score 45 points off of nine Houston turnovers. SMU's defense had four interceptions that were returned for touchdowns, and there was a fumbled kickoff that SMU also was able to return for a score.
Houston vs. SMU 2012 final score: Mustangs score school-record 72 points in win
The SMU Mustangs scored 72 points, a school record, as they easily defeated Houston on Thursday.
Cooper Neill
The difference in this game was the third quarter. Houston was scheduled to receive the ball to start the second half, but Ryan Jackson fumbled the ball and linebacker Kevin Pope returned it 20 yards for a SMU touchdown. Houston then turned the ball over on its next two possessions. SMU was able to get a field goal, and then Darrian Wright returned an interception for a touchdown. That was 17 straight unanswered points within three minutes, which pretty much wrapped up the game for the Mustangs.
Houston would go onto score two more touchdowns in the third quarter, but SMU quarterback Garrett Gilbert was able to match both of those to keep the Cougars at arm’s length.
While the SMU defense had a great night, their offense was able to put up some points on its own. Gilbert had a good night by completing 23-of-38 passes for 265 yards, plus he found the end zone four times. Running back Zach Line scored two touchdown while rushing for 113 yards.
Box Score Hero: The SMU defense for its nine forced turnovers, with four interceptions returned for touchdowns.
Rankings Ramifications: Neither team will have an effect on the rankings.
But Did They Cover? SMU easily covered the 2.5 points
Next Week’s Schedule: Houston will host UTEP on Oct. 27, and SMU will host Memphis on Oct. 27.
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