COLLEGE STATION — Looking back over his extensive coaching career, Mike Sherman fondly recalls a defining moment from a memorable contest against the University of Texas in 2010. At that time, Sherman was at the helm of the Texas A&M football team, and the game was pivotal; not only did the Aggies secure a 24-17 victory to claim a share of the Big 12 South title and achieve their sixth consecutive win, but they also dealt a significant blow to the Longhorns, marking their first losing season since 1997.
Adding to the day’s joy, Sherman’s family celebrated the arrival of his grandson, Brook, born just a day later. However, the game wasn’t without its challenges, as Sherman reminisced about having the flu on the night before the match. “I’ve only missed one meeting in my entire life since I’ve been coaching,” he remarked with a laugh, recalling how he was ill yet determined to lead his team to victory.
Sherman’s coaching journey spans several decades, beginning at the University of Pittsburgh as a graduate assistant in 1981 and extending to various roles, including being the offensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins and the head coach of the Green Bay Packers for six seasons. His win against Texas is one of the highlights, particularly since it remains his only triumph in four attempts against the longstanding rival.
For running back Cyrus Gray, who rushed for a career-high 223 yards that evening, the significance of the win was deeply personal. Gray had a standout performance, including two touchdowns, and wasn’t shy about sharing how proud he was to help end Texas’s chance at a bowl game that season. Memories from that game continue to resonate with both players and coaches alike.
Former A&M kicker Randy Bullock also reflects on that day with pride, particularly recalling his crucial 50-yard field goal that shifted the momentum in favor of the Aggies. This moment stands out even amidst a successful career that included winning the Lou Groza Award and being drafted by the Houston Texans.
The rivalry between Texas A&M and Texas dates back to 1894, once a staple of Thanksgiving traditions for college football fans. However, with the teams recently separated into different conferences, the rivalry had taken a backseat for over a decade. Yet the importance of this matchup remains as potent as ever, according to Sherman, who believes players begin to grasp its significance once they step onto the field.
As the 2024 season approaches, the Aggies find themselves in a promising position, aiming to make their mark in the SEC with a chance to assert their dominance once again. Currently ranked No. 3 in the nation, the team’s success has rekindled excitement in College Station. Sherman has words of encouragement for current head coach Mike Elko, urging him to maintain the momentum and push the team toward victory.
The Aggies are currently favored by 2½ points in the upcoming matchup against Texas. With an impressive performance leading to the No. 4 offense in the SEC and a strong defense, the anticipation for this rivalry rekindled is palpable. While the Texas-A&M rivalry may not garner the national limelight of others, Sherman firmly believes in its significance, emphasizing that young fans look up to the players and dream of achieving greatness in such a storied game.