Brashard Smith SMU RB: Rising Star Making Waves in College Football
Brashard Smith, the SMU running back, transferred from Miami and set the single-season program record for all-purpose yards with 1,977. Smith’s speed and playmaking ability transformed the Mustangs’ offense and positioned him as a legitimate NFL prospect for the upcoming draft.
Born on April 11, 2003, Smith brought his talents to Dallas after a stint with the Miami Hurricanes. Despite not having ideal height, the senior has compensated with explosive speed, reportedly owning a sub-4.5 40-yard dash time. His 2024 campaign saw him appear in all 14 games, starting in 10 of them, while consistently delivering game-changing performances that helped elevate SMU’s national profile.
Smith’s highlight reel showcases his versatility – taking handoffs between the tackles, catching passes out of the backfield, and returning kicks with electric ability. NFL scouts have taken notice of his multi-dimensional skill set, though they’ll need to determine how his physical attributes translate to the professional level. What can’t be questioned is Smith’s production against quality competition, making him one of the more intriguing offensive weapons in college football.
Contents
Early Life and High School Career
Brashard Smith’s journey to becoming a standout running back at SMU began in his hometown of Miami, Florida, where his explosive speed and versatility first caught the attention of college recruiters.
High School Accolades
Smith emerged as a dynamic playmaker at Miami Palmetto High School in Miami-Dade County. During his junior season, he showcased his receiving talents with 36 receptions for 628 yards and 13 touchdowns. His blazing speed and elusiveness made him a constant threat with the ball in his hands.
Ranked as a four-star prospect by several recruiting services, Smith was considered among the top athletes in Florida’s 33156 zip code. His versatility was evident as he excelled at multiple positions, though he primarily played as a slot receiver.
The Miami native earned All-County honors and was invited to participate in prestigious regional all-star games, cementing his status as one of south Florida’s premier offensive weapons.
Commitment to SMU
Smith’s path to SMU wasn’t direct. He initially committed to the University of Miami, staying in his home country and close to his roots. After spending three seasons with the Hurricanes, where he appeared in 35 games primarily as a slot receiver, Smith made the decision to transfer.
The connection with SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee proved crucial in Smith’s decision. Despite having played receiver in high school and his first 34 college games, Smith embraced a position change to running back upon arriving at SMU.
This bold move would ultimately transform his career trajectory and showcase his adaptability as an athlete, setting the stage for his remarkable success with the Mustangs.
Collegiate Career at SMU
Brashard Smith’s journey at SMU has been marked by remarkable growth and record-breaking performances that transformed him from a promising talent to one of the program’s most dynamic offensive weapons.
Freshman Season Impact
Smith began his collegiate career primarily as a receiver and special teams contributor. While his statistics weren’t eye-popping during this initial campaign, his explosive speed and playmaking ability offered glimpses of his potential.
The coaching staff recognized his versatility early, occasionally utilizing him in the backfield on jet sweeps and designed runs to take advantage of his 4.39 speed. Though touches were limited, Smith averaged over 5 yards per carry when given opportunities.
His most notable freshman contribution came on special teams, where his return abilities gave the Mustangs favorable field position multiple times throughout the season.
Sophomore Year Development
Smith’s sophomore campaign showed significant development as he began transitioning toward a more hybrid role in the offense. The coaching staff expanded his responsibilities, incorporating him more frequently in both the passing and rushing attack.
His ability to create mismatches became increasingly evident as the season progressed. Whether lined up in the slot or motioning into the backfield, Smith’s explosiveness in space created headaches for opposing defensive coordinators.
By mid-season, he had established himself as a legitimate dual-threat option, recording multiple games with both rushing and receiving touchdowns. His development as a route-runner also took noticeable strides forward.
Junior Year Breakthrough
Smith’s junior year marked his complete transition to running back, a move that would prove transformative for both him and the SMU offense. The position change unlocked his full potential as an every-down playmaker.
Despite being relatively new to the position, Smith demonstrated remarkable vision and instinct between the tackles while maintaining his game-breaking speed in the open field.
His production soared as he accumulated over 1,000 all-purpose yards and established himself as one of the American Athletic Conference’s most dangerous offensive weapons. Smith’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield added another dimension to his game.
The Mustangs’ offense found new life with Smith as their featured back, helping push the team toward conference contention.
Senior Season and Legacy
Smith’s senior season cemented his legacy as one of SMU’s all-time great offensive players. He ran for a team-high 1,332 yards, the fourth most in school history, while appearing in all 14 games for the Mustangs.
His production wasn’t limited to just rushing, as he added 39 receptions for 327 yards to his impressive stat line. Smith’s dual-threat capabilities resulted in 18 total touchdowns and nearly 2,000 all-purpose yards.
2023-24 Season Statistics
| Category | Stats | Conference Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 1,332 | 2nd |
| Rushing TDs | 14 | 3rd |
| Yards Per Carry | 5.7 | 4th |
| All-Purpose Yards | ~2,000 | 2nd |
| Total TDs | 18 | 2nd |
NFL scouts have taken notice of Smith’s explosiveness and versatility. His 4.39 40-yard dash at the Combine showcased elite speed that translates perfectly to today’s NFL offenses seeking multi-dimensional backs.
Statistical Overview
Brashard Smith has emerged as one of college football’s most productive running backs during the 2024 season at SMU. His versatility shows in his impressive rushing numbers, receiving abilities, and impact in the return game.
Rushing Statistics
Smith has established himself as SMU’s workhorse back in 2024, accumulating 1,332 rushing yards on 235 carries while averaging a robust 5.7 yards per attempt. His 14 rushing touchdowns demonstrate his nose for the end zone and ability to finish drives.
The efficiency metrics stand out when evaluating Smith’s ground game. His consistent production has been crucial to SMU’s offensive success this season.
| Season | Carries | Yards | TD | Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 235 | 1,332 | 14 | 5.7 |
Smith’s ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact has NFL scouts taking notice. His combination of vision and acceleration through holes makes him particularly effective in zone-running schemes.
Receiving Contributions
Throughout his college career, Smith has proven himself a reliable target out of the backfield. He has accumulated 1,097 receiving yards on 108 catches across his time at both Miami and SMU.
This dual-threat capability adds significant value to his draft profile, as NFL teams increasingly seek running backs who can contribute in the passing game. Smith’s hands and route-running ability from the backfield create matchup problems for linebackers.
His receiving skills trace back to his recruitment as a consensus four-star prospect who originally played wide receiver. This background gives him natural pass-catching abilities uncommon among running backs.
Special Teams and All-Purpose Yards
Smith’s impact extends beyond just offense, as he’s contributed in the return game throughout his career. This versatility increases his all-purpose yardage and makes him a valuable three-phase player.
Standing at 5’10” and 194 pounds, Smith possesses the ideal build for return duties – compact enough to hide behind blockers yet sturdy enough to break tackles in the open field.
His all-purpose yards tell the complete story of his contributions, combining rushing, receiving, and return yardage. This versatility projects well to the next level, where roster spots are at a premium and multi-dimensional players hold greater value.
NFL teams looking for a day-two draft selection will appreciate Smith’s ability to contribute immediately on special teams while developing into a potential three-down back.
Playing Style and Strengths
Brashard Smith has emerged as one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in college football. His combination of explosive acceleration, natural pass-catching ability, and versatility makes him a promising NFL prospect as teams increasingly value multi-dimensional running backs.
Running Back Skills
Smith’s rushing talent is built on exceptional quickness and decision-making. He’s quick-twitch and explosive, capable of turning the smallest crease into a big play. His 1,332 rushing yards in 2023 ranked fourth in SMU history and second in the ACC.
What stands out most is his patience combined with decisiveness. Smith doesn’t just rely on speed – he sets up blocks effectively, showing maturity beyond his years. His silky smooth feet and conviction as a runner allow him to maximize each carry.
His lateral cutting ability deserves special mention. Smith gains solid ground on redirects and shifts between gaps with remarkable efficiency. These traits make him particularly effective in zone-running schemes where vision and one-cut ability are premium skills.
| Rushing Stats | Total |
|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 1,332 |
| Rank in School History | 4th |
| Conference Ranking | 2nd in ACC |
Pass Catching Abilities
Smith’s receiving skills elevate his draft stock considerably. In 2023, he posted career highs with 39 receptions for 327 yards, demonstrating his development as a true dual-threat.
His natural pass-catching traits have scouts projecting him as a potential Day 2 selection in the NFL Draft. Smith shows soft hands and the ability to adjust to throws outside his frame – unusual skills for many running backs.
What makes Smith special is how seamlessly he transitions from runner to receiver. He runs crisp routes from both the backfield and when split wide, creating matchup problems for linebackers and safeties alike.
Versatility and Athleticism
Smith’s athletic profile jumps off the page, starting with his impressive 4.39 forty time. This elite speed combined with his burst and acceleration translates directly to game-breaking plays.
His stutter-and-go abilities are excellent, allowing him to freeze defenders before exploding past them. This skill is particularly valuable in both rushing and receiving situations.
Smith currently ranks as the #10 running back prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft with an 82.9 rating. He projects as an ideal fit for spread-based offensive systems at the next level. His diverse skill set offers offensive coordinators multiple ways to deploy him.
The modern NFL values versatility in its skill positions, and Smith fits perfectly into that evolution. His ability to contribute meaningfully in the running game, passing attack, and potentially on special teams makes him a three-down weapon.
Coaching and Influence
The coaching staff and offensive philosophy at SMU have significantly shaped Brashard Smith’s development. His transition from wide receiver to running back showcases how proper guidance can unlock a player’s true potential.
Impact of Coach Rhett Lashlee
Rhett Lashlee deserves substantial credit for Smith’s meteoric rise at SMU. The head coach recognized Smith’s unique skill set when he transferred from Miami and made the pivotal decision to convert him to a full-time running back.
Lashlee’s background as an innovative offensive coordinator prepared him perfectly to maximize Smith’s abilities. He installed specific packages to leverage Smith’s 4.39 speed while teaching him running back fundamentals.
“Coach Lashlee saw what nobody else did,” Smith mentioned during spring practices. “He taught me how to read blocks and influence defenders.”
The statistics tell the story of Lashlee’s influence:
| Season | Rushing Yards | TDs | Receiving Yards | TDs | Total Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 1,178 | 11 | 342 | 3 | 1,520 |
Offensive Scheme Adaptation
The SMU Mustangs tailored their offensive scheme to maximize Smith’s versatility. Offensive coordinator Casey Woods incorporated elements specifically designed to create mismatches for the former wide receiver.
Smith’s role evolved to include:
- Zone runs leveraging his one-cut ability
- Trap plays against aggressive defensive tackles
- Motion concepts creating defensive confusion
- Wheel routes against linebackers
His influence/trap blocking techniques have become a signature element of SMU’s rushing attack. These specialized concepts allow Smith to use his quickness rather than power when dealing with interior defenders.
NFL scouts have taken notice, with Smith now projected as a mid-round selection in the upcoming draft. His scheme versatility makes him particularly valuable to teams employing multiple offensive packages.
Performance in Key Games
Brashard Smith has shown exceptional talent in critical matchups throughout his SMU career, demonstrating his versatility and big-play ability when it matters most.
College Football Playoff Appearances
Smith elevated his game during SMU’s historic path to the College Football Playoff. Against Texas A&M in the quarterfinals, he rushed for 143 yards on just 16 carries and added two touchdowns that proved decisive in the Mustangs’ upset victory.
His burst and acceleration were on full display when he broke free for a 72-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, showcasing why NFL scouts are paying close attention.
In the semifinal matchup versus Ohio State, Smith contributed 187 all-purpose yards (112 rushing, 75 receiving) despite the eventual loss. His performance against elite competition solidified his draft stock.
| Game | Rush Yards | Rec Yards | TDs | Highlight Play |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas A&M | 143 | 28 | 2 | 72-yd TD run |
| Ohio State | 112 | 75 | 1 | 41-yd screen pass |
Rivalry with Penn State
The SMU-Penn State series has become an unexpected modern rivalry, with Smith playing a central role in these intense matchups. In their 2024 showdown, Smith ran for a team-high 121 yards and scored the game-winning touchdown with just 37 seconds remaining.
His elusiveness was particularly evident against Penn State’s typically stout defense, as he forced eight missed tackles and gained 76 yards after contact.
In their previous meeting (2023), Smith recorded his first career 200+ all-purpose yard game, with 118 rushing yards and 89 receiving yards. His versatility created matchup problems that even Penn State’s NFL-caliber defenders struggled to contain.
Smith’s 4.39 speed in the 40-yard dash has been especially evident in these rivalry games, where his big-play ability has consistently changed momentum.
Projection and Draft Prospects
Brashard Smith has positioned himself as an intriguing NFL prospect with his explosive playmaking ability and versatility. His draft stock continues to rise as teams evaluate his unique skill set that bridges the gap between running back and receiver.
NFL Draft Stock
Smith currently projects as a 4th round selection in the upcoming NFL Draft, ranking #133 overall and #10 at his position. This placement reflects both his impressive collegiate production and the questions about his ideal role at the next level.
Teams are increasingly drawn to Smith’s game-breaking speed and versatility. His ability to contribute in multiple phases of the offense has several franchises viewing him as a potential day-two selection if he performs well in pre-draft workouts.
The trend of hybrid RB/WR players finding success in the NFL works in Smith’s favor. Creative offensive coordinators will see Smith as a chess piece rather than a traditional positional player.
Skill Set Evaluation
Smith’s most marketable skill is his explosiveness in space. Despite his smaller stature at 5’9″ and 194 pounds, he demonstrates remarkable contact balance and elusiveness.
His production at SMU showcases his versatility:
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Rushing Yards | 1,142 |
| Receiving Yards | 863 |
| Total TDs | 19 |
| All-Purpose Yards | 2,218 |
Smith excels in creating explosive plays both from the backfield and as a receiver. His route-running from the slot position frequently creates mismatches against linebackers.
Where Smith needs improvement is in pass protection. At his size, teams question if he can hold up against NFL-caliber pass rushers.
Comparison with Peers
Smith stands out in this running back class due to his dual-threat capabilities. While he doesn’t possess the between-the-tackles power of some contemporaries, his receiving skills outpace nearly all running backs in this draft class.
His closest NFL comparison might be Alvin Kamara or Deebo Samuel – players who thrive in hybrid roles. Smith’s thin build raises durability concerns, but his limited collegiate workload (only 1,117 college snaps across 46 games) suggests he has plenty of tread left on his tires.
Teams with creative offensive coordinators like San Francisco, Kansas City, and Miami will likely value Smith more highly than traditional offenses. His NFL success will largely depend on landing with a team willing to design specific packages to maximize his unique skill set.
Off-Field Impact
Brashard Smith’s influence extends well beyond his explosive plays on the field. His commitment to service and growing personal brand showcase the complete package that NFL scouts are evaluating ahead of the 2025 draft.
Community Engagement
Smith has quickly become a fixture in the Dallas community since transferring to SMU. During the 2024 fall semester, he logged over 50 hours at local youth centers, primarily working with kids from underserved neighborhoods.
His most notable initiative was the “Speed & Read” program, where he visited elementary schools throughout the Dallas zip code 75205, encouraging young students to embrace both athletics and academics.
“What impresses me most about Brashard is how naturally he connects with children,” said SMU’s community outreach coordinator. “He doesn’t just show up – he invests.”
Smith has also participated in three hospital visits and two football camps for underprivileged youth across the country during school breaks.
Personal Brand and Media
Smith’s media presence has grown significantly following his position switch from receiver to running back. His Instagram following jumped 87% during the 2024 season, now boasting over 125,000 followers.
| Media Metric | Before Position Switch | Current (April 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 67,000 followers | 125,000+ followers | |
| 34,000 followers | 91,000+ followers | |
| NIL Value | $175,000 (est.) | $410,000 (est.) |
Unlike many prospects who shy away from cameras, Smith has embraced the spotlight with a natural charisma that NFL scouts have noticed. His post-game interviews often go viral for his articulate analysis and refreshing candor.
Smith has secured partnerships with three national brands and two Dallas-area businesses, demonstrating marketing appeal that transcends his on-field talents.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite his impressive performances, Brashard Smith’s journey at SMU hasn’t been without obstacles. The talented running back has faced disciplinary issues and struggled with ball security at crucial moments.
Handling of Turnovers
Smith’s explosive playing style occasionally leads to risky ball-handling decisions. In the October matchup against Stanford, he not only missed the first half due to violating team rules, but returned to fumble on a crucial drive in the third quarter.
His turnover issues have raised red flags for NFL scouts. While his speed and elusiveness are elite-level traits, his ball security remains a work in progress.
Smith’s Turnover Statistics 2024-25 Season:
| Opponent | Fumbles | Interceptions | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stanford | 1 | 0 | Loss |
| Oklahoma | 2 | 0 | Win |
| Arizona | 1 | 0 | Win |
| TCU | 0 | 0 | Win |
Smith’s transition from wide receiver to running back at SMU has contributed to these challenges. His inexperience at the position shows up most notably in ball security situations.
Injury Management
NFL teams evaluating Smith’s draft potential have become concerned about his durability. He’s considered undersized for an every-down back at the professional level, standing at just 5’10” and weighing 194 pounds.
His playing style puts significant strain on his lower body. This is because he relies heavily on explosive cuts and acceleration. He missed two games mid-season with a hamstring issue that limited his effectiveness upon return.
NFL scouts have noted that Smith’s inexperience at running back is “painfully evident in his size and play style.” They describe him as “more of an athlete than a polished runner.”
This injury vulnerability, combined with his disciplinary suspension against Stanford, has dropped him from a potential day two selection to a likely fourth or fifth-round pick in the upcoming NFL draft.
