If, in your mind, a team is a rival, then so be it. I hate smut with a passion. They have hurt us in more ways than just football. They really have nothing to offer a conference other than an opportunity to recruit the Dallas area. Yet they have been a thorn in our side when we have tried to better ourselves (SWC; CUSA). The fact that they don't acknowledge us as a rival (when we really are ) fuels the fire. So, yes. In my mind they are a huge rival and beating them is very sweet indeed.
Same goes for UTSA. They have been given everything in a very short span of time, while we have had to scratch and claw for everything we have. We should put them in their place every time we have the chance. So yes, beating them is very satisfying. Admittedly, it's more fun when they hate you back, but for me, this is what makes a rival.