Despite Scott's annually recurring Lithium-induced predictions, I think most people looking at A&M's team this year would figure that they're headed through some sort of transitional period. An O-line with not a lot of experience or depth, no returning linebackers, no proven receivers or tight-ends, about the only thing A&M seems to have in abundance are running backs. Add to the mix a new coaching staff with very different offensive and defensive philosophies and you know there will be some bumps and bruises.
Most people though would have predicted a win, albiet maybe a close one, against Arkansas State. This was an opponent that is being pegged as middle of the road in the Sun Belt conference and one that Francione beat pretty handilly a few years ago. Realistically, you expect to beat a team like Arkansas State at home.
Over 78,000 fans showed up for the Mike Sherman debut game. The weather was great, starting out a little warm at 90 degrees but steadily cooling throughout the game. There was a nice easterly breeze. Add to this the anticipation of seeing a new head coach, and it's difficult to imagine a better way to start a season.
The offense played well in the first half. They didn't have the ball much, but they scored two touchdowns. Passing was mixed in well with running and Mike Goodson scored both touchdowns for the Ags. The defense, while giving up a lot of yards, held Arkansas State to one field goal. Despite a missed A&M field goal, you could feel comfortable heading into halftime with a 14-3 lead.
However, football is a game of two halves and the A&M offense imploded disastrously in the second half. Arksansas State scored all of its fifteen points in the second half after A&M turnovers; four of them. The Red Rovers (they used to be the Indians), did a good job of slowing down A&M's ground game and going after A&M QB McGee. The Ags missed another field goal. A&M couldn't capitalize on its few opportunities and Arkansas State was able to walk away with a well-deserved 18-14 win against the Ags.
Next week should be interesting. New Mexico, also at home, only managed three points in a loss to TCU. It could be an ugly low-scoring game in Albequerque. My dad and I fly out on Friday and Scott, Mom, Josh and Devin will drive out early Friday morning. Matt is also flying out from DC.
Safe travels and hopefully everyone has a great time. Gig'em
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