Changes in Culture
You need only look at the 2019 recruiting class rankings to see the effect winning a national title does for the respect a coach earns. #GigEmGang19 is currently ranked No. 3 according to 247Sports, trailing perennial recruiting powerhouses Alabama and Oklahoma. It’s clear the hype surrounding his hire is real, and not just for the fans.
Sometimes a team just needs a new voice leading the way to get a jolt. You could see that in Sumlin’s first season as the Aggies head coach. He had the daunting task of transitioning Texas A&M into the SEC, college football’s best and deepest conference, and responded by taking Mike Sherman’s players to an 11-2 record and a win over Oklahoma in the Cotton Bowl.
Fisher’s voice has been heard, and the changes he has already made speak wonders. While Sumlin was undoubtedly fun to play for, “fun” isn’t always the best recipe for success. Just look at the two most successful coaches at the college and pro levels, Nick Saban and Bill Belichick. Both have business-like approaches and are very stern.
Jimbo has continued to express that the expectation for this program is greatness. Today after a few mess ups he shouted "It's not gonna be how it used to be!" #ShiftingTheMindset
— Aggieland Illustrated (@aggiemag) April 4, 2018
No longer are DJs and loud music part of Texas A&M’s practices, and it’s for the most practical reason ever: Fisher simply wanted his players to hear him teach.
Jimbo is also paying massive attention to detail. After one of the spring practices, he talked about how he puts his players in all situations in practice so their instincts take over when those moments happen in the game.
Next: 5 Aggies who could have breakout seasons in 2018
There are already distinct differences in the ways Fisher approaching coaching from the previous regime. From the outside looking in, they all seem positive. This is likely the most important factor in the Aggies contending for a national championship in year one.
Jeff Shull is the Site Expert for the Gig Em Gazette on FanSided. Follow him on Twitter, and be sure to follow the Gig Em Gazette on Facebook and Twitter.