SMU's chances of spoiling their old Southwest Conference rival Houston's undefeated season took a devastating blow today when it was announced that Zach Line, their star RB, will be out of the season with a toe injury.
Line, a 6'1 230 RB, had averaged 5.9 yards per carry while rushing for 1,224 yards and 17 TD's this season.
Using Line to control the clock and keep Case Keenum off the field would have been crucial for the Mustangs, as they have struggled against spread offenses similar to Kevin Sumlin's this season. They gave up 46 points to Texas A&M and 38 to Tulsa.
Now their offense will be in the hands of senior transfer QB J.J. McDermott, whose thrown 14 TD's and 13 INT's this season.
If the Cougars can force McDermott into some early mistakes and give Case Keenum a short field, an SMU defense that's given up 27.4 points per game this season, 63rd in the country, could be in for a long day.