‘We’ve got a chip on our shoulder’: Jimbo Fisher emphatic that a rebound is imminent in 2023
August is upon us, which only means one thing: Texas A&M’s 2023 football is nearly a month away, and fall football practice is set to begin on Wednesday, Aug. 2.
TexAgs recently held their 2023 Preseason Kickoff Event this weekend, which benefits the Kidz 1st Fund. The fund was established by Coach Jimbo Fisher & Candi Fisher after their son was diagnosed with Fanconi anemia. The Kidz1stFund raises awareness & funds for FA research.
Fisher was joined by basketball Head Coach Buzz Williams and baseball Assistant Coach Nolan Cain took the stage to field questions about their teams’ respective offseasons and the expectations for each program heading into the fall.
Entering his sixth season with the program, Fisher’s coaching seat isn’t quite hot just yet; the Aggies’ 5-7 (2-6 SEC) 2022 season will continue to cast a dark shadow until wins are tallied at a consistent rate and with a talented and experienced roster coupled with a highly competent coaching staff, failure simply isn’t an option in 2023.
Keeping with his straightforward, business-like tone, Fisher still expressed his steadfast passion, noting just how much-unfinished business lies ahead as soon as Texas A&M opens the season on Saturday, Sept. 2, against New Mexico.
Here is every Jimbo Fisher had to say at the TexAgs 2023 Preseason Kickoff Event:
Jimbo Fisher notes just how eager the Aggies are to get back on the field, and further prove that 2022 was simply a fluke
“I’m still pissed off… We’ve got a chip on our shoulder. That’s the dynamic of our football team. I am very, very excited about the temperament of our football team.”
Fisher notes how in order to utilize natural talent, experience on the field is pivotal to development
“I know we have a talented football team. Guys have developed their talent well. But you can be talented and not be a good football player… Great players and great teams do the ordinary things better than anyone.”
Jimbo Fisher: remembering the struggles during the 2022 season will further prevent them from happening again
“You have a chip on your shoulder. You want to prove that is not who we are… You don’t forget. You learn from it, and then you don’t let it happen again.”
Jimbo Fisher notes that the 2022 recruiting class's "baptism by fire" campaign will only aid in their development in 2023
We played so many young players a year ago. They understand that playing is one thing. Winning is another.”
Jimbo Fisher on the impending quarterback battle between Conner Weigman and Max Johnson
“Conner (Weigman), I think, has really grown. He can make all the plays and throws and runs.”
“He can do those things, and Max (Johnson) can too.”
Jimbo Fisher on new offensive coordinator, Bobby Petrino
“He and I have gotten along better than anybody I’ve ever coached with because we understand each other.”
Jimbo Fisher notes the competion at nearly every position during fall camp
“The competition at all positions is great, and that’s going to allow us to keep rotations across the board.”
Jimbo Fisher on how the Aggies have utilized the transfer portal this offseason
“The portal has been excellent for us this offseason. There are going to be some guys that make a difference.”
Jimbo Fisher on the changing landscape of NIL
“I don’t think it’s a bad thing. I think it needs to be regulated and controlled so that all the rules are the same.”
“NIL is here to stay, and I think it’s great. But if that’s the only reason you play, you’re not going to play in pro ball, and you’re not going to be as great. As long as you keep the main thing the main thing, you’ll be OK.”
Jimbo Fisher on the vast importance of The Kidz1stFund, and the progress his son Ethan has continued to make
“He’s doing great. The progress we’re making with Kidz1st is off the charts… What you’re doing is funding life-changing research.”
“My why is my son and all the families we are fighting for.”
