Here is a breakdown of SMU's 2017 football schedule as the season opener approaches:
Three games to circle on the calendar
1. TCU. If SMU wants to prove that it can play with the big boys in Texas, it needs to beat its oldest rival. A win in the Battle for the Iron Skillet would propel SMU forward for the rest of the season.
2. Houston. SMU shocked many last season by beating the Cougars at Ford Stadium. It was Chad Morris' first trademark win as the SMU head coach.