Three Takeaways From TCU’s 35-24 Win Over SMU

The Battle for the Iron Skillet never disappoints, and Saturday’s showdown between TCU and SMU was no exception.

The Horned Frogs and Mustangs traded momentum swings, explosive plays, and defensive lapses in a game that felt every bit like a high-intensity rivalry matchup. Beyond the final score, though, there were plenty of lessons to be learned about both teams and where they stand heading into the heart of the season.

Here are three key takeaways from TCU’s 35-24 win over SMU.

Take A Bow, Eric

Eric McAlister was the difference-maker for TCU’s offense against SMU, showing why he is quickly becoming one of the most dangerous receivers in the Big 12. The Horned Frogs leaned on him early and often, and the Mustangs had no answer for his combination of size, speed, and body control. Whenever TCU needed a play, it seemed McAlister was the one making it.

From contested grabs on the sideline to explosive gains down the field, McAlister showcased the complete package. His ability to separate in tight coverage gave Josh Hoover a reliable target, and his yards after the catch consistently turned routine plays into drive-extenders. SMU’s secondary tried multiple looks, including bracket coverage, but McAlister’s physicality at the catch point made those adjustments meaningless.

He finished the day with eight catches for 254 yards and three scores. If this performance is a sign of things to come, McAlister is poised to be one of the league’s breakout stars this season.

An Awesome Rivalry

The Battle for the Iron Skillet remains one of college football’s most underrated rivalries, and Saturday was another reminder of why it is so special. The atmosphere around the game was electric from the opening kickoff, with both fan bases fully invested in every play. TCU and SMU might not share the national profile of some other rivalry pairings, but the energy on the field and in the stands makes this matchup one of the most entertaining in Texas.

Part of what makes it so compelling is the genuine animosity between the two programs. Fans of both schools are not shy about how they feel toward one another, and that edge has only grown in recent years as the series has produced competitive, high-scoring contests. The tension spilled over onto social media throughout the week, where posts and comments from both sides showed just how much this game matters. From trash talk to memes, the buildup reflected the passion that fuels the Iron Skillet each season.

That passion carried into the stadium, where every big play was met with a roar or a groan, depending on which side you were on. The players feed off that energy, and it gives the game an intensity that goes beyond a typical non-conference matchup. In a state packed with football rivalries, TCU-SMU stands out because of its authenticity. The hatred is real, the stakes are always personal, and the result is one of the most fun games of the year.

Undefeated, and Unphased

With the win over SMU, TCU moves to 3-0 and looks every bit the part of a contender in the Big 12. The Horned Frogs have handled their early schedule with confidence, blending offensive explosiveness with a defense that has shown improvement week to week. Through three games, they have proven they can dictate tempo, make plays in critical moments, and find ways to win regardless of the opponent’s style.

What stands out about this start is how balanced TCU looks. The offense has playmakers all over the field, from Eric McAlister on the perimeter to a running game that can control drives when needed. Josh Hoover has grown more comfortable leading the unit, and his chemistry with his receivers gives the Frogs a dangerous downfield element. Defensively, Andy Avalos’ group has limited big plays and forced timely turnovers, the kind of formula that can hold up in conference play.

That combination gives TCU a legitimate chance to reach Arlington. The Big 12 is wide open this season, but the Frogs already look like a team capable of beating anyone on their path. They have the talent to match up with the league’s top contenders and the confidence that comes from stacking wins early. If they continue to develop consistency, there is no reason this group cannot find itself competing for a Big 12 title once again.