Seconds before the clock ran out, the Mustang defense held the Green Wave from scoring a potential game-winning touchdown on Saturday in Ford Stadium. Tulane’s quarterback Jonathan Banks fell inches short of the end zone, and the referee’s controversial play call secured the Mustangs’ victory and future bowl eligibility.

Sophomore running back Ke’Mon Freeman opened up scoring for the Mustangs within the first five minutes of play. Tulane quickly responded, tying the score with a 53-yard touchdown run off a pass from Banks.

Later in the first quarter, in a critical fourth down and two situation, All-American Courtland Sutton grabbed an incredible one-handed catch to bring the Mustangs a first down on Tulane’s 7-yard line. Overall, Sutton recorded six passes for 107 yards in his last game in Ford Stadium. Ke’Mon Freeman used Sutton’s third down conversion to run into the end zone for his second touchdown of the day.

Both teams added two touchdowns in the second quarter, but the Mustangs led 27-21 going into the locker-room at halftime.

After the half, the Green Wave came in strong, scoring twice within the ninth minute of the quarter. SMU responded with a touchdown pass to James Proche, but the Green Wave added a field goal in the final seconds of the quarter.

The Mustangs trailed by four for most of the fourth quarter until Hicks connected with Trey Quinn to find the end zone for the eventual game-winning touchdown. Quinn caught six passes throughout the game for 139 yards and two touchdowns.

“This program is definitely headed in the right direction. We’ve overcome a lot of obstacles over the last three years,” said head coach Chad Morris. “But make no mistake, today is about the seniors. I’m very proud of them, and I’m looking forward to getting into bowl practice in the next week.”

The Mustangs are boasting their best home record since 1982 and are headed into post-season play for the first time since 2012.

SMU awaits their bowl destination, to be announced on December 3.