Coach reveals status of SMU QB ahead of top-25 matchup

While Jennings’ injury was undisclosed, he took a big hit in the team’s most recent game against Duke. According to ESPN sources, Jennings required medical clearance to be able to play on Saturday.

Jennings may have struggled against the Blue Devils, completing just 54.2% of his passes and turning the ball over five times (three interceptions and two fumbles). However, his season up to this point has been solid.

The sophomore quarterback has completed 110 of his 171 pass attempts for 1,594 yards and 10 touchdowns and rushed for an additional three scores. Jennings has accounted for five interceptions but has been efficient overall.

No. 20 SMU ranks fourth in the ACC in scoring with 39.1 points per game and fifth with 443.5 yards per game.

The Mustangs got a win over in-state rival TCU before going on the road and knocking off a ranked Louisville team two weeks later. In that game, Jennings had one of his best all-around performances of the season, passing for 281 yards and rushing for 113 yards and a touchdown.

The Mustangs’ only loss of the season was a three-point loss to BYU. The Cougars are currently ranked ninth in the country and undefeated at 8-0.

The Mustangs will be the first ranked opponent Pitt has faced all season. Panthers quarterback Eli Holstein, who has accounted for 1,805 passing yards, 17 touchdowns and five interceptions, also did not have clearance to play on Saturday until head coach Pat Narduzzi made the announcement on Wednesday.

With Jennings cleared to go, SMU will try to become the first team to defeat Pitt this season as the two teams square off in a top-25 showdown.