California vs SMU head-to-head: position-by-position star ratings, experience, and composite grades on CFB Matchup. They meet Week 8, Saturday, October 24, 2026.
The Breakdown
#20 SMU edges California 67-64, powered by a 4.2★ offensive line California's 3.5★ D-line must handle.
When California has the ball: Adam Mohammed, 4★, attacks SMU's 3.0★ linebackers; 3.7★ receivers also outrate the 3.0★ secondary.
When SMU has the ball: Kendrick Raphael's 4★ against California's 2.7★ linebackers is the game's widest gap. Feed him.
Swing factor: QB duel: Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, 4★ but one year, versus Kevin Jennings, 3★ with four seasons.
X-factor: Late-October Saturday in Dallas, SMU at home with the ranking and the crowd.