The SMU Mustangs, led by quarterback Kevin Jennings, dominated TCU 66-42 and led by as much as 41 points in the fourth quarter. The outcome of this year’s Iron Skillet rivalry shocked fans as TCU was blown out by a team that scored zero offensive points in its week two matchup.

The heartbreaking loss felt all too familiar to TCU fans, many of whom took to Twitter to voice their frustrations over Saturday’s game and concerns about the program’s future.

It seems like TCU football can only improve from here. This week’s opponent, the Kansas Jayhawks, are currently last in the Big 12 with a 1-3 record (0-1 in conference). TCU is not far ahead, sitting at third-to-last in the conference with a 2-2 record (0-1 in conference).

Another lethal run game

The Jayhawks head into Week 5 on a three-game losing streak, with quarterback Jalon Daniels struggling through a tough start to the season.

He has thrown seven interceptions over four games, including three during the matchup against Illinois.

Kansas running back Devin Neal has been a standout for the Jayhawks, leading the team in rushing yards with 448.

The Kansas offense presents a significant deep threat to TCU, bolstered by a strong run game. TCU has already allowed a combined total of 527 rushing yards from UCF and SMU.

UCF and SMU’s running backs share a similar build to Kansas’ Devin Neal, who is 5 feet and 10 inches tall and 200 pounds.  The smaller build gives the running backs an advantage to be more evasive and find gaps in the defense.

Neal has already scored three rushing touchdowns this season and has the potential to tack on more if TCU fails to address its defensive shortcomings.

All eyes are on Dykes, Avalos and Briles

The pressure is on for TCU to turn things around at Arrowhead Stadium this week, as serious questions are circulating about the future of the current coaching staff. The Frogs have not started the season as hoped, and losing by more than 20 points to a team that has struggled for consistency doesn’t bode well, leading to a growing sense of distrust among fans.

Dykes was ejected from the SMU game for the first time in his 15-year career.

Dykes was distraught after the loss to SMU and surprised by the outcome.

“We’ve got to do a better job of stopping the run,” he said. “I think it’s obviously, painfully clear to anybody, you know, we’re giving up too many yards, specifically on early downs.”

In this week’s press conference, Dykes said that the intensity of practice was good and he has seen improvements, but what does that mean?

“Having a good week of practice” is becoming a buzzword for the community, as each successful practice during the week leads to another disappointing performance, exposing more weaknesses in the team.

TCU’s defensive failures are overshadowing the offensive successes.

Wide receiver Jack Bech has been spectacular this season, currently ranking fourth in the nation in receiving yards with 516. Standing 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 215 pounds, his size and physicality make him a prime target for quarterback Josh Hoover.

Up next

Dykes and the TCU football team hope to turn things around at Arrowhead Stadium this Saturday, Sept. 28, against the Kansas Jayhawks.

Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. and the game will be available for streaming on ESPN+.