Ainias Smith ready to set the tone in Texas A&M season opener

Every team wants to start a season off on the right foot. Opening a year with a win can carry over to the next game and snowball into a successful season. For Texas A&M wide receiver Ainias Smith, he wants to see that effect happen for the Aggies this weekend.

Smith spoke about the Aggies upcoming opener in a press conference Monday. He said the first game is all about setting the tone and that he wants to see Texas A&M take it as seriously as if this game were for a national title.

CLICK HERE to subscribe for FREE to the On3 YouTube channel

“The first game of the season is always gonna set the tone for the rest of the season. This game here is a big one just like any other game,” said Smith. “We’re definitely gonna take this game just like we’re playing the national championship.”

The Aggies open this season as the No. 6 team in the country in the preseason AP Poll. That distinction comes with a lot of hype for what A&M could be in 2022. It’s a long time between now and the CFP, though. The first challenge for Smith and his teammates in College Station on their way to that goal will be the Sam Houston State Bearkats.

Even so, it doesn’t matter that they’re an FCS team. Smith says the opener matters just as much in their run at the postseason overall as the final game of the year.

“Along with every other game, there’s not going to be a play where we can take off and make sure that we’re doing everything right. (We’re) really just trying to be great,” Smith said.

Texas A&M being 1-0 following their opener won’t be a shocker by any means. When trying to make a case to the playoff committee though, every game matters. Four of their next seven games being against ranked opponents makes it even more important to get off to better start. It’s all about tone and Smith and his teammates are ready to set it starting this weekend.