DALLAS (SMU) - Mustang junior tight end Jeremiah Gaines has been awarded the number "23" for the 2015 season, Head Coach Chad Morris announced Saturday, August 22.

Since 2009, a deserving student-athlete on the SMU football team has been chosen to wear the number "23" on his jersey to honor Jerry LeVias for his contributions to America, the sport of football and SMU.

When LeVias started as an end for SMU in a September 24, 1966, game against Illinois, he forever changed the Southwest Conference. LeVias was the first African-American to receive an athletic scholarship in the SWC. Born in Beaumont, Texas, Jerry had played quarterback for Hebert High School. He was small (5-9, 177 lbs.), but made up for it with his great speed, as evidenced in three touchdown runs of over 70 yards each in a 21-8 victory over rival Booker T. Washington. At SMU, LeVias made athletic and academic All-America teams and contributed to the Mustangs' first SWC title in 18 years. He was a consensus All-American in 1968 and was chosen All-SWC in 1966, 1967, and 1968. He went on to play in the NFL.

Gaines, a native of Red Oak, Texas, played in nine games, starting three, in 2014, totaling four catches for 97 yards, including a 67-yard touchdown reception against Houston.

Chris Banjo, now of the Green Bay Packers, was the first "23" recipient in 2009 and wore the number for the three seasons. Linebacker Stephon Sanders was the second recipient and wore the number 2012-14.

Gaines and his Mustang teammates open the season by hosting No. 4 Baylor in an ESPN-televised matchup at Ford Stadium on Friday, Sept. 4 at 6 p.m. CT. For tickets, call 214-768-4263 (214-SMU-GAME) or visit SMUMustangs.com/tickets