Picking up new schemes
Not only will Elko come in with a new scheme for the defense to learn, but Fisher will also completely overhaul the offense with his system. Fisher runs a slower paced, pro-style offense that will differ greatly from Sumlin’s offense.
The tight end will be used in both the run and passing game way more. They will use a zone run-blocking scheme. The passing offense will not have a ton of play variety but will come from a lot of different looks to keep defenses guessing.
Elko’s defense won’t be as much of a drastic change. John Chavis already used mostly a nickel package on defense due to A&M’s struggles in coverage. Hopefully Elko won’t have that problem as most of the young cornerbacks on the roster saw the field last year and can build on that experience.
A&M also returns five of their front seven from a year ago, and both of the defensive linemen they lost have talented players in the waiting.
Both sides of the football will have a learning curve and are playing catchup in practices. Something to watch at camp will definitely be which side of the ball picks up the new system quicker.
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.