It’s very rare that the college football program which happens to be dominating media headlines also gets featured in the 77 in 77. But that’s coincidence coupled with fact that maybe I’m underrating the Texas A&M Aggies.
Ok, so here’s what we know- the SEC did not officially extend an offer to A&M. However, the University did meet and officially vote to explore leaving the Big 12. Right now they’re a decent size fish in a medium pond. But if they get what they want, they could become fish food in the ocean.
Anyways, here’s the latest:
the outcome of the meeting signaled the A&M-to-the-SEC talk will not die anytime in the near future.
According to multiple media outlets, the regents unanimously voted this afternoon to give President R. Loftin Bowen permission to “take action on conference alignment.” Translated into English, that means Loftin has been given official permission to pursue a move from the Big 12 to the SEC. The next step in the process — provided there are no legal obstacles that still need to be navigated — will likely be for Loftin to officially approach the SEC regarding A&M’s interest in becoming a member of the conference.
2010 was: a solid season that may not be as fondly remembered as it should; given the Cotton Bowl loss. 9-4, 6-2 in conference. After ranking 114th nationally in defense in ’08 and then 105th in ’09, they grew up big time- reaching 55th last season. They also had the #1 run defense in the conference. The offense was very explosive- averaging almost 4 C-Notes and a half of yardage per contest. It could be even better this season.
BMOCs: CB Coryell Judie could make the all-name team, and the NFL Draft first round. WR Jeff Fuller could join him on draft day. Backup tailback Christine Michael could join him on the name team. QB Ryan Tannehill and RB Cyrus Gray are as good as they have had in College Station in quite awhile.
2011 will be fruitful if: Everyone stays focused, and doesn’t look ahead to 2012 on beyond. If they can find some LB depth; they’ll be solid all around.
2011 will be awful if: The off-the-field stuff: conference realignment and such distracts them. Also, the front seven needs to compensate for the loss of Von Miller, a top three pick in the NFL Draft. Looks like they’ll start over in the punting game too- which needs an overhaul.
Bottom Line: With a ridiculous amount of skill position stars, anything short of a Big 12 title game appearance would be a major disappointment.
A&M Rankings: #11 Athlon, #13 Lindy’s, #9 Phil Steele
Paul M. Banks is CEO of The Sports Bank.net, an official Google News site that generates millions of unique visitors. He’s also a regular contributor to Chicago Now, Walter Football.com, Yardbarker, and Fox Sports
He does regular weekly radio spots in Chicago and Cleveland and has appeared on live shows all across the world from Houston to New Zealand. You can follow him on Twitter
CHECK OUT ALL THE 77 IN 77s
#25 Mississippi State Bulldogs
#32 Texas Tech Red Raiders
#49 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
#50 Southern Miss Golden Eagles
#55 Iowa State Cyclones
#71 Ole Miss Rebels