Uplifting experience underway at SMU

It appeared head coach June Jones had a major rebuilding effort on his hands after SMU went 1-11 in his first season at the helm. However, the Mustangs have surprised observers by opening the 2009 campaign with a 3-2 record that included an uplifting upset of East Carolina last Saturday.

Jones agreed the program has made significant progress in just one year, but is too savvy and experienced to think the job is close to completion.

"We've come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. I think our players are buying into what we're trying to do and it's nice to win some games so they can see some positive...