NCAAF ‘It’s going to be exciting:’ Ainias Smith speaks on expectations, WR competition, his offensive role and more
Only a few days separate Texas A&M from the start of the 2023 college football season, and one of the veteran leaders took a moment to speak with the media Monday afternoon. Before the Aggies take on New Mexico in Week 1, wide receiver Ainias Smith spoke on the quarterback room, the competition at wide receiver, and the versatility in the running back room.
Texas A&M has no talent shortage at wide receiver, which sets up the Maroon and White to make a case for the best wideout room in the country. Before they can stake their claim, they must produce on the field, which means preparation during practice will be key. As Smith notes below, every player feeds off one another, and that competition will only make the unit stronger as a whole.
The running back room has a significant void to fill following De’Von Achane’s departure to the NFL, but Smith is confident in what they have on the roster. The veteran noted that the trio in the backfield boasts a nice combination of speed and agility that will ultimately provide a boon to the offense overall.
Smith also noted that the offensive line, which faced no shortage of trials a season ago, continues to make strides daily with the “Maroon Goons” clicking on the regular.
Below is Ainias Smith’s press conference video from Monday afternoon and notable highlights from his time at the podium.
Smith and the Aggie WRs feel prepared for college football's new rule changes
“It’s interesting because we were having a conversation about it… In practice, our main emphasis was to get ready, get spotted, get on the ball and get ready to go.”
Smith was tight-lipped on his special teams duties this season
“I don’t know if I’m going to be returning all the kicks this year, whether on punt or kick return, but I expect myself to be back there.”
If anyone knows the importance of special teams, it's Agent Zero
“The most successful teams are successful on special teams. … Special teams is just as important as offense or defense.”
Smith is counting down the days until playing in front of the 12th Man
“It’s going to be exciting. All I know is that it’s definitely going to be rocking.”
The Aggies' RB room boasts a nice combination of speed, agility, and quickness
“They’re all so unique in all their playing styles. We have power. We have speed, agility and quickness. Just give them the rock and let them work.”
Smith admires the leadership from both Conner Weigman and Max Johnson
“The main thing I’ve seen from both of those guys, and what I think is the main thing, is the leadership. They’re not worried who’s going to get the job. They just want to win.”
As the saying goes, "iron sharpens iron" when it comes to the WR room
“I feel like we feed off each other. There are days when it’s tough on guys. It’s hot, and some people might not want to go all the time, but we’ve got so many guys that are talented, and it’s very competitive. You don’t want to be the odd man out.”
Smith notest that the OL continues to take leaps forward every day
“Tremendous steps. Everything is clicking in their room. Those guys are all together. Now, they’re starting to express themselves to the team… We hear them. It’s looking real nice.”
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