It's a big weekend, with lots of rivals going at it, but for me the biggest match-up was the Texas A&M--Texas game. I am a proud graduate of the former (for their school commercial during the game A&M used video clips to chronicle how many degree programs they offer--the last was a tornado with "meteorology" in the bottom corner).

I do a grid iron forecast each weekend highlighting regional teams. But--once a year--I venture outside state lines and highlight this game. I did so this morning with the knowledge that I was probably forecasting conditions in which the Aggies would lose. I mean, I have school pride, but I'm also realistic. Still, I got decked out in my maroon wear and settled in to watch the game. No matter what happened on the field I knew I'd see beauty shots of the campus and a spirited Kyle Field. Then a funny thing happened: A&M started smoking the Longhorns.

This is such a big game in Texas. And the spirit for an Aggie home game is unlike anything I have ever experienced. There is such a camaraderie and energy in the crowd, a phenomenon that extends to everyday life on campus. I know everyone feels like this about their school, but I really believe Aggieland is different. I spent many a fun sports day in the Carrier Dome at Syracuse and that wasn't the same.

So A&M pulled the upset and now attention will shift to what this means for the national championship and bowl picture. (Admittedly, LSU is the team that made this conversation much more interesting.) But even though A&M may only make it to one of those marginal, weirdly named bowls (if that), it is still a great day. I re-connected with old friends (subject line of one email: "Are you watching the game?!?!) and had a lot fun remembering good times in College Station.

Maroon Out!