SMU coach Rhett Lashlee lands another contract extension

Field Level Media|published: Fri 22nd November, 14:13 2024

Oct 19, 2024; Stanford, California, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs head coach Rhett Lashlee (center) during the fourth quarter against the Stanford Cardinal at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

SMU and head football coach Rhett Lashlee are in agreement on a contract extension.

The school announced the extension on Friday but, as a private university, is not required to disclose any terms. He previously received a contract extension last November.

Lashlee is in his third season at SMU and the Mustangs are 9-1 (6-0 Atlantic Coast Conference). They are No. 13 in the College Football Playoff rankings and have two games remaining on the regular season -- Saturday at Virginia and Nov. 30 at home against Cal -- before a potential appearance in the ACC championship game on Dec. 7.

This is the Mustangs' first season in the ACC.

In 2023, he led SMU to an 11-3 record as a member of the American Athletic Conference and to its first league title since 1984.

"Rhett was the clear choice when we conducted our head-coaching search in 2021, and everything he and his staff have accomplished only validates our decision," athletic director Rick Hart said. "He has operated in alignment with our values and represents SMU with class and integrity. As we go through a time of significant change in college athletics and the college athletics model, Rhett has been an invaluable partner and leader."

Lashlee, 41, has a 27-10 record with the Mustangs. He previously worked as the offensive coordinator at SMU as well as at Miami, UConn, Auburn, Arkansas State and Samford.

--Field Level Media