For most students, the end of the first day of classes meant a snack, maybe a nap, and beginning to think about plans for the night. For football player Bobby Chase, the end of class everyday means one thing – practice.

“Life’s great,” Chase said. “I have an easy schedule which means I can focus a lot on football. I only have like one class a day, so I have a lot of time to watch tape.”

Chase, a senior film major, is ready to take a leadership role as a captain of the SMU team this year. He’s already convinced that the Mustangs have a bowl game “in hand.”

“We’re going for the conference championship this year,” said Chase. “We haven’t been to a bowl game in 27 years. As captain, I want to be able to lead the team to something special for them and for SMU.” Although Chase acknowledges his talents and his significance on the field, he is not willing to take all the credit.

“Jesus Christ is my foundation; everything I do is for His glory,” he said.

While Chase is humble about the origins of his successes, he does have his own personal goals for the season. In 2005, Chase was named the SMU offensive MVP and had 39 catches for more than 625 yards. This year, he hopes not only to have his second 600-yard season, but he also wants to become a better asset to the team.

“I really need to get my blocks down. I need to be more of a team player,” he said. Chase, like the rest of his Mustang teammates, is gearing up for what could be SMU’s best season in more than 20 years. SMU football kicks off Sept. 2 at Texas Tech.