Kevin Jennings explains how he, Preston Stone have learned from each other in QB room

Two SMU quarterbacks attended ACC Media Days on Monday with Preston Stone and Kevin Jennings both taking questions from reporters. Although Stone is set to assume the starting role for the Mustangs next season, coach Rhett Lashlee has said that Jennings will also have a role.

Jennings, a redshirt sophomore, showed his potential with starts in the AAC Championship Game as well as the Fenway Bowl this past season. He led the Mustangs to a win in the conference title against Tulane while finishing 19-of-33 passing for 203 yards, one touchdowns and two interceptions.

Stone started all 12 regular season games in 2023 before suffering a broken fibula in the finale against Navy. He will be fully healthy to start this season after throwing for 3,197 yards and 28 touchdowns while leading SMU to a 10-2 record.

With Jennings set to spell Stone in certain packages this season, it creates a unique dynamic in the quarterback room. Jennings is still the backup in theory, however, and spoke on lessons he has learned from Stone, who is entering his fourth college season.

“I mean, honestly, I learn a lot from him, like the leadership accountability, all that kind of stuff,” Jennings said. “He’s a great leader. Day by day he teaches me different things, how to communicate with this player, how to communicate with him and all of that.

“Honestly, what he learns from me? I can’t think of much he learns from me,” he added.

SMU is set to enter its first season as a member of the ACC as a result of conference realignment. That means a tougher schedule with the Mustangs set to face teams such as Florida State, Louisville and even fellow newcomer Stanford.

Jennings poses a rushing threat, which suggests he may be used in the red zone or in short yardage situations. He averaged 3.8 yards per carry last season and score one touchdown on the ground.

There’s also the scenario where he may be asked to come in more permanently should Stone go down. Whatever the case, he knows he’ll be ready.

“Honestly I want to say it’s a hard preparation because of the great coaches I have alongside with me,” Jennings said. “They prepare me week in, week out to be prepared to come in. You never know what’s going to happen. Just always be ready when your number is called, prepare like a starter all throughout the year.”

SMU kicks off the 2024 season on Aug. 24 against Nevada.