On the eve of SMU’s first true bowl game under Sonny Dykes’ tutelage, Athletic Director Rick Hart and SMU’s top brass announced a contract extension for the second year head coach.
After two years on the Hilltop, Dykes and his staff have orchestrated a comeback some of even the most loyal SMU football fans did not know was possible. With SMU in the midst of their best season since the before the Death Penalty, the program posted double-digit wins for the first time since 1984. Chasing an elusive 11th win on the season at the Boca Raton Bowl, SMU had just its sixth season in program history with ten or more wins.
“Sonny and Kate have proven to be a perfect fit for SMU. Coach Dykes has assembled a quality staff and built a winning culture within our football program. As a result, we are experiencing record results on the field and in the classroom,” Hart released in a statement. “Our connection to the community has never been stronger. We look forward to building upon this success with Sonny at the helm for years to come.”
With Power Five schools giving Dykes a look with the coaching carousel in full swing, the long-time head coach reaffirmed his commitment to SMU and the city of Dallas. Reiterating his belief that SMU is just getting started, Dykes asserted his core message since his first day on the job.
“I am humbled and honored that SMU has made this strong commitment to me, my family and our talented staff. We are proud of what has been accomplished but look forward to incredible things ahead. President Turner, Rick Hart and I are aligned in our passion and vision for SMU Football. I am thankful for their continued support and leadership. SMU is a special place with special people. Kate and I are blessed to be a part of the SMU community,” Dykes released in a statement. “Rest assured that we will continue to work tirelessly to make the SMU family and the entire city of Dallas proud.”
As far as the rest of the coaching staff goes, most of the pieces have stayed in place. Ra’Shaad Samples, the former Texas wide receivers coach turned SMU assistant and recruiting standout, just recently signed an extension. It has been reported that SMU has granted more money for assistant coach’s salaries.
The lone casualty of the historic season thus far has been quality control coach Casey Petree. He announced he will leave after the bowl game on Friday for Cal Poly to be the tight ends coach.
Dykes was a finalist for the Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year award this season, that ultimately went to Ed Oregon of the number one ranked LSU Tigers. He is 15-10 as SMU’s head coach.
