than the likes of NC State, UNC, Duke, etc.

the hype around Enter Sandman. From 2012-2023, in conference games A&M has gone 21-19 at home.

The game will bring with it some challenges. It's entirely possible that it's the toughest game on the schedule this year. But it's not going to be some sort of program defining moment, or career defining game for Freeman. If we beat them, we're likely to be one of several teams to do so this year.

at Kyle in 2021. It matched anything I've been to at ND. In fact, after my first game at Kyle, I commented that it reminded me of how ND used to be, albeit twice the size.

They sure were in that hot game vs ND in ND Stadium in 2000.

All of the A&M fans were a class act.

the Aggies are the gold standard for hospitality toward the visiting team’s fans.

I am thinking of going, but not if it is some sort of urine-filled, couch-burning Orange Bowl or Horseshoe experience.

upset by A&M were treated fine. In fact, and while I think this particularly tradition is a little corny, Aggies don't boo. That's the kind of place it is.
And FWIW, they also have a large and very vibrant Catholic student community. Brand new $28 million church.

Can probably name 10 better crowds venues in the SEC.
Now, it’ll be a tough game, but I think CK is right, doubtful anyone will think of 2024 aTm as world beaters. But it won’t take Elko long to improve them, just not immediately.

They caught fire in a bottle for a few years. They'll continue to compete with Mississippi State and the SEC's other Big 12 imports for the title of most mediocre SEC team. (Or, heck, maybe they'll buy a great team off the shelf, since we're doing that these days.)

Alabama is not one of them.

Jordan-Hare, Daryll Royal, OK Memorial, and yes, Tuscaloosa for a top matchup.

Hell South Carolina can be a damn loud, intense, and intimidating place for the right games.
Just like a dozen+ more non-SEC venues.

The fanbase at A&M is special, in a Special Uncle Butch sort of way. I get uncomfortable if there’s more than 2 of them at a social event. Please don’t talk about the yells. Ever.

I’d be more worried about SE Texas heat in early September than “The 12th Man” but, if we’re not prepared (see Louisville 2023), it’ll be rough. Once again, I expect it to be a tough game against a hyped up opponent in a rowdy road stadium. We should expect those types of games. We can evaluate the quality of the win in December.

stadium is louder and more exuberant. DKR is a wine and cheese crowd, similar to ND.

My ribbing of A&M fans is merely for fun.

I’ve been to many different stadia over the years and they’re all (for the most part) unique and fun in their own ways.

you lose.

Winning there, on the other hand, only means you hope to get out Ann Arbor alive.

and roster of guys who haven't accomplished anything of real consequence so we should be an extremely motivated and determined team ready to handle a challenge, especially since our schedule isn't packed with them.