DALLAS, TEXAS — SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee has been named a finalist for the prestigious Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Year Award for the second consecutive year. The award, presented annually by the American Heart Association and the Bryant family, honors excellence in coaching while raising awareness and funds for cardiovascular research.
In his third season, Lashlee led SMU to unprecedented success, including the program’s first College Football Playoff berth, an ACC Championship appearance, and back-to-back 11-win seasons. The Mustangs finished 2024 ranked in the top 10 nationally in categories such as scoring offense and rushing defense.
The award ceremony will take place on January 22, 2025, at Houston’s Post Oak Hotel and will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network. Lashlee has also been recognized as a finalist for the Eddie Robinson National Coach of the Year Award and a semifinalist for the George Munger Award, cementing his status as one of college football’s top coaches.
