SMU is not a "small brand." It's a big brand, in waiting.
Prior to the "Death Penalty," SMU was one of the biggest names in the old SWC. It was SMU's punishment that served as the catalyst for the conference's demise. When it finally comes to the BE, it will be the one school in the conference with the "tradition" we're always discussing. 11 SWC championships, 10 members of the College Hall Of Fame, 6 members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, 14 Bowls including the original "Big 4,"and over 30 All-Americans including names like Don Meredith, Forest Gregg, Tobin Rote, Kyle Rote, Jerry Levias, Louie Kelcher, and many more. SMU also has, in total, one of the wealthiest alumni bases in the country. Hopefully they use their money correctly this time.
If SMU starts winning every year, and with their coach it's not a pipe dream, they will, once again, be judged as a national power. Even the dismissive talking heads will support SMU SMU they know. They can relate to SMU. SMU sings for these turkeys.
SMU's fans have been waiting, since the "Punishment'." They'll come back.