The Mustangs (9-1, 6-0) fell into a deficit early in the second half, but strong performances from quarterback Kevin Jennings and running back Brashard Smith as well as a key defensive stop lifted SMU to a 38-28 victory over the Eagles (5-5, 2-4).

SMU won’t get any credit for style points. But the 14th-ranked Mustangs did score enough points to hold off Boston College on Saturday and remain alone atop the ACC standings. It was a struggle. After taking an early 10-point lead,