NCAAF · Final

Louisville Cardinals Triumph Over SMU Mustangs 41-31

Saturday, September 19, 2026, 3:30 PM ET · L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium

Louisville Cardinals 41, SMU Mustangs 31, final. Our NCAAF picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.

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Quick answers

Who won SMU Mustangs vs Louisville Cardinals?

Louisville Cardinals beat SMU Mustangs 41-31 at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium on September 19, 2026.

Who was favored in SMU Mustangs vs Louisville Cardinals?

Louisville Cardinals were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -155 (about 61% implied). The favorite won.

In a thrilling matchup at the L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, the Louisville Cardinals secured a decisive victory over the SMU Mustangs with a final score of 41-31. This game was particularly significant as it marked a turnaround for Louisville after a previous loss to SMU in the 2025 season, where they were defeated 6-38. The Cardinals, now with a home record of 3-3, improved their overall record to 3-1, while the Mustangs fell to 2-2 on the road.

Both teams entered the game with a record of 2-1, making this contest a pivotal early-season clash. Louisville's recent form showed a mixed bag, with a record of 5-5 in their last ten games and a current winning streak of one. They had averaged 30.6 points scored and allowed 23.2 points per game in this stretch. Their last five games indicated a slight improvement, with an average of 32.6 points scored and 22.4 points allowed.

Conversely, SMU had been on a stronger run, boasting an 8-2 record in their last ten outings and a two-game winning streak leading into this match. The Mustangs averaged 33.9 points scored and only 17.6 points allowed during this stretch, showcasing their potent offense and solid defense. Their recent form included a convincing 56-10 win against UC Davis and a close 27-24 victory over Florida State.

In terms of home versus away performance, Louisville had a balanced record at home, while SMU had been particularly strong on the road with a 3-2 away record. The Cardinals had previously struggled against top-tier opponents, but their recent victory against Villanova, where they won 59-13, provided a much-needed boost in confidence.

The injury report showed both teams relatively healthy, which is always crucial at this stage of the season. The absence of key players can significantly impact game dynamics, but both squads were ready to field their best lineups.

The betting lines from DraftKings indicated that Louisville was favored by 3 points, with a total set at 57.5. The odds reflected the competitive nature of the matchup, with Louisville's money line at -155 and SMU's at +130. This pricing suggested that while Louisville was expected to win, the game was anticipated to be closely contested.

Conditions for the game were favorable, with clear skies and a comfortable temperature, allowing both teams to execute their game plans without the hindrance of adverse weather.

As the game unfolded, viewers were treated to a display of offensive prowess from both sides. Louisville's ability to score 41 points highlighted their offensive capabilities, while SMU's 31 points demonstrated their resilience and competitive spirit. This matchup not only provided entertainment but also set the stage for both teams as they continue their seasons, with Louisville looking to build on this momentum and SMU aiming to rebound from the loss.

What we said beforehand

The upcoming matchup between the Louisville Cardinals and the SMU Mustangs is set to take place at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium on September 19, 2026, at 19:30 UTC. This game is particularly intriguing as it features two teams with contrasting early-season performances: Louisville holds a home record of 1-1, while SMU has started strong with a 2-0 record. The Mustangs have already triumphed over Louisville in their last meeting, which ended in a decisive 38-6 victory for SMU on November 22, 2025.

In their recent form, Louisville has shown some resilience, winning two of their last five games. Their most recent outing was a convincing 59-13 win against the Villanova Wildcats on September 11, 2026. Prior to that, they suffered a narrow loss to the Ole Miss Rebels, finishing 38-41, and lost to SMU in their previous encounter. Overall, the Cardinals have averaged 32.6 points scored and allowed 22.4 points in their last five games. Their home performance has been mixed, with a record of 3-3 over their last ten home games, where they have averaged 30.6 points scored and 23.2 points allowed.

On the other hand, the SMU Mustangs come into this game riding a two-game winning streak, having won four of their last five contests. Their most recent victory was a dominant 56-10 win against UC Davis on September 12, 2026. SMU’s offense has been potent, averaging 40.2 points scored and allowing just 18.2 points in their last five games. Notably, they have maintained an impressive away record of 3-2, and their overall performance has seen them average 33.9 points scored and 17.6 points allowed in their last ten games.

In terms of individual performances, Louisville's Lincoln Kienholz has been a standout player, leading the team with 639 passing yards and four touchdowns, as well as contributing significantly on the ground with 111 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Tre Richardson has also been a key receiver, tallying 181 receiving yards and one touchdown. For SMU, quarterback Kevin Jennings has been exceptional, throwing for 767 yards and eight touchdowns, while Kendrick Raphael has added a rushing touchdown and 78 rushing yards. Yannick Smith has been a reliable target, recording 151 receiving yards and two touchdowns.

The injury picture appears to be stable for both teams ahead of this matchup, which could play a crucial role in determining the outcome. The weather forecast indicates a temperature of 95°F with a 25% chance of precipitation and gusts up to 15 mph, which may affect gameplay conditions.

From a betting perspective, DraftKings has set the odds with Louisville as a 3-point favorite, with a total points line of 57.5. The moneyline odds are -142 for Louisville and +120 for SMU, reflecting the competitive nature of this contest.

As both teams prepare for this critical clash, viewers should watch for Louisville's ability to rebound from their previous defeat against SMU and how they can leverage their home-field advantage. Meanwhile, SMU will look to continue their winning momentum and capitalize on their recent success against the Cardinals. This matchup promises to be an exciting encounter, showcasing two teams eager to assert themselves in the early stages of the season.

Odds

Book	Spread	Total	Moneyline
DraftKings	LOU -3	57.5 o -112 / u -108	SMU Mustangs +130 · Louisville Cardinals -155

What these prices pay on $100 · What these numbers mean

Leaders

Passing yardsLincoln Kienholz14/23, 177 YDS, 2 TDLouisville Cardinals
Rushing yardsKeyjuan Brown10 CAR, 163 YDS, 2 TDLouisville Cardinals
Receiving yardsLawayne McCoy4 REC, 62 YDS, 1 TDLouisville Cardinals
Passing yardsKevin Jennings24/35, 222 YDS, 1 TD, 2 INTSMU Mustangs
Rushing yardsKendrick Raphael24 CAR, 197 YDS, 3 TDSMU Mustangs
Receiving yardsYamir Knight7 REC, 70 YDS, 1 TDSMU Mustangs

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