It is clear outside the P5 opponent every year up to 2029 that the schedule is open which is interesting.

We had BYU a lot (if not all) of those years until they dropped us (and a bunch of others). We'll almost certainly line up an FCS game each of those years in the non-conference. I would imagine that Hartwell is seeing the holes in our upcoming schedules and is working on filling those slots.

I would love to get some H:H’s with some low - mid-tier PAC-12 and Big 12 teams (ex: Oregon State, ASU, Arizona, Houston, K-State, Texas Tech, etc.). Add some variety instead of an FCS, UCONN/NMSU, and then an SEC money game like schedule.

FromLItoLogan wrote: ↑

August 8th, 2022, 6:24 pm

SwaggieAggie wrote: ↑

August 8th, 2022, 5:48 pm

I would love to get some H:H’s with some low - mid-tier PAC-12 and Big 12 teams (ex: Oregon State, ASU, Arizona, Houston, K-State, Texas Tech, etc.). Add some variety instead of an FCS, UCONN/NMSU, and then an SEC money game like schedule.

I kinda doubt lower tier P5s are gonna schedule with us for the next little bit. We're too dangerous and could beat them.

It’s a double edged sword. I think if we can get a bit more success the risk reward to scheduling us can still be in our favor.

Beating a middle of the road mwc adds little to a P5 resume. Losing to a middle of the road mwc team wrecks them.

Beating a good mwc team is a valuable non conference win that won’t hurt them as much in a loss.

We just need to show consistency. If we are routinely battling for mwc championships going into week 11 or 12 we will be able to schedule many of the desired teams. If we have an 11 win season followed by a 6 win, 4 win 5 win and then another 11 win season we’re just a middle of the road inconsistent team.

AAC and CUSA schools

SMU, UTSA, Memphis, Marshall, ULa, WKU, UNT, No Ill,

FromLItoLogan wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 8:08 am

ViAggie wrote: ↑

August 8th, 2022, 11:18 pm

AAC and CUSA schools

I would love to see Tulsa and UTEP be put on the schedule.

UTEP is about as useless as New Mexico State. I do like adding Tulsa though. I'm pretty sure Steve Farmer, Kendrick Shaver and Luke Wells are there.

ViAggie wrote: ↑

August 8th, 2022, 11:18 pm

AAC and CUSA schools

We should be targeting the top g5 programs regardless of conference. For example I’d rather play app state than Tulane.

With BYU dropping us from future games it seems like a good time to reexamine the scheduling philosophy. I would love to see a move toward reducing these to every other year. The excitement of the season getting washed away annually with a loss, and usually a big loss. In 2019 the 6-42 loss to LSU, in 2018 31-38 loss to Michigan State, in 2017 10-59 loss to Wisconsin, in 2016 7-45 loss to USC, in 2015 17-31 loss to Washington, and in 2014 7-38 loss to Tennessee. Most of these games killed excitement in fringe fans. I’m not sure how beneficial these games have been, although I understand they helped pay the bills. I see all MW teams except San Diego State are playing some, so it looks like it’s required for the arms race. Last season didn’t have one and I didn’t miss it. As far as I can see it’s been about 5% of annual revenue, but it appears guarantees are getting smaller while other revenue has increased. I see Iowa in 2023, Mississippi State in 2024, Texas A&M in 2025, and in 2027 the first away game of the Oregon’s 2-1. With the separation between the SEC and Big Ten with the other “P5” schools maybe there is a case for finding a ACC, Big 12 or PAC-10 team. Go Aggies!

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 12:36 pm

With BYU dropping us from future games it seems like a good time to reexamine the scheduling philosophy. I would love to see a move toward reducing these to every other year. The excitement of the season getting washed away annually with a loss, and usually a big loss. In 2019 the 6-42 loss to LSU, in 2018 31-38 loss to Michigan State, in 2017 10-59 loss to Wisconsin, in 2016 7-45 loss to USC, in 2015 17-31 loss to Washington, and in 2014 7-38 loss to Tennessee. Most of these games killed excitement in fringe fans. I’m not sure how beneficial these games have been, although I understand they helped pay the bills. I see all MW teams except San Diego State are playing some, so it looks like it’s required for the arms race. Last season didn’t have one and I didn’t miss it. As far as I can see it’s been about 5% of annual revenue, but it appears guarantees are getting smaller while other revenue has increased. I see Iowa in 2023, Mississippi State in 2024, Texas A&M in 2025, and in 2027 the first away game of the Oregon’s 2-1. With the separation between the SEC and Big Ten with the other “P5” schools maybe there is a case for finding a ACC, Big 12 or PAC-10 team. Go Aggies!

One of these is not like the others.

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:53 pm

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

If we don't want to play guarantee games, more season tickets need to be sold and total donations have to go WAY up.

Do the players look forward to playing the big time opponents in the storied venues? Does this factor in recruiting at all? I would guess they enjoy the opportunity to compete against top collegiate talent in the venues they see on TV growing up.

Yossarian wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:01 pm

Do the players look forward to playing the big time opponents in the storied venues? Does this factor in recruiting at all? I would guess they enjoy the opportunity to compete against top collegiate talent in the venues they see on TV growing up.

I don't think it factors into recruiting much. BUT I know the players look forward to playing the big boys. You aren't a true competitor if you don't.

aggies22 wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 3:42 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:53 pm

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

If we don't want to play guarantee games, then more season tickets need to be sold and total donations have to go WAY up.

This is the answer, we play big money games because the athletic department needs the money to stay afloat. I guarantee Hartwell would much rather not schedule them, but for now it is necessary.

aggies22 wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 3:42 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:53 pm

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

If we don't want to play guarantee games, then more season tickets need to be sold and total donations have to go WAY up.

I wasn’t suggesting going from annual guarantee games to zero, but reducing the number. Possibly change to every third year don’t play one. Colorado State, Wyoming, Fresno, and Hawaii don’t play them every year. Further for the 2009-2010 season USU had $1.4 million in Ticket Sales compared to $2.6 in 2019-2020 (not much effect from Covid). Total revenues went from $19 million to $39 million. I read media rights are expected to go from $1.1 million to $4 million. I know my post on a message board won’t change anything, but it seems like conditions changed enough to look at the possibility. Also, 2021 was a season without a guarantee game. It must be possible.

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:31 pm

aggies22 wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 3:42 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:53 pm

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

If we don't want to play guarantee games, then more season tickets need to be sold and total donations have to go WAY up.

I wasn’t suggesting going from annual guarantee games to zero, but reducing the number. Possibly change to every third year don’t play one. Colorado State, Wyoming, Fresno, and Hawaii don’t play them every year. Further for the 2009-2010 season USU had $1.4 million in Ticket Sales compared to $2.6 in 2019-2020 (not much effect from Covid). Total revenues went from $19 million to $39 million. I read media rights are expected to go from $1.1 million to $4 million. I know my post on a message board won’t change anything, but it seems like conditions changed enough to look at the possibility. Also, 2021 was a season without a guarantee game. It must be possible.

I'm not 100% certain but I would imagine we scored some cash from Washington State.

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:31 pm

aggies22 wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 3:42 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:53 pm

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

If we don't want to play guarantee games, then more season tickets need to be sold and total donations have to go WAY up.

I wasn’t suggesting going from annual guarantee games to zero, but reducing the number. Possibly change to every third year don’t play one. Colorado State, Wyoming, Fresno, and Hawaii don’t play them every year. Further for the 2009-2010 season USU had $1.4 million in Ticket Sales compared to $2.6 in 2019-2020 (not much effect from Covid). Total revenues went from $19 million to $39 million. I read media rights are expected to go from $1.1 million to $4 million. I know my post on a message board won’t change anything, but it seems like conditions changed enough to look at the possibility. Also, 2021 was a season without a guarantee game. It must be possible.

It isn't possible to balance the budget and not play the guarantee. Every year we balance close to zero WITH a guarantee game. Washington State better have paid us, but they may not have since COVID was out of their control. Even with that costs are going up and our revenues don't put us ahead. We are catching up.

I think the guarantee games are a must. The one change I would like to see is more against the middle and lower tier teams instead of the likes of LSU and Alabama. I like Michigan State and look forward to Iowa next year. No problem with playing those at all.

Yossarian wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:01 pm

Do the players look forward to playing the big time opponents in the storied venues? Does this factor in recruiting at all? I would guess they enjoy the opportunity to compete against top collegiate talent in the venues they see on TV growing up.

When my cousin was playing for USU in the early 1990s, he said the players loved those games. He was there in 1991, when the Aggies played at both Nebraska and Oklahoma back to back, and considered that a big highlight of his football days.

We've always played money games as long as I can remember; this didn't just start in 2009. As Swordsman mentioned, we played OU and Nebraska back-to-back in '91 and that was when they were both elite schools. In prior years, we played USC when they had Junior Seau, Illinois with Jeff George, Nebraska again. We played and beat Kansas State in '92.

In fact, I'd argue our show against OU in 2010, Auburn 2011 and Wisconsin 2012, was the perfect barometer of measuring our improvement as a team because we were in a position to win all three late in the game. They were no longer simple body bag games for the $1m payout to keep the program solvent. The 2018 MSU game was similar. Coming off three consecutive poor seasons, it gave fans hope the program had turned around again when we went on the road and played them tight to the final drive.

FloridaAggie13 wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 8:00 am

We've always played money games as long as I can remember; this didn't just start in 2009. As Swordsman mentioned, we played OU and Nebraska back-to-back in '91 and that was when they were both elite schools. In prior years, we played USC when they had Junior Seau, Illinois with Jeff George, Nebraska again. We played and beat Kansas State in '92.

In fact, I'd argue our show against OU in 2010, Auburn 2011 and Wisconsin 2012, was the perfect barometer of measuring our improvement as a team because we were in a position to win all three late in the game. They were no longer simple body bag games for the $1m payout to keep the program solvent. The 2018 MSU game was similar. Coming off three consecutive poor seasons, it gave fans hope the program had turned around again when we went on the road and played them tight to the final drive.

We routinely played 2 money games a year prior to joining the WAC. I like having 1 a year. I hope it continues.

GeoAg wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 8:19 am

FloridaAggie13 wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 8:00 am

We've always played money games as long as I can remember; this didn't just start in 2009. As Swordsman mentioned, we played OU and Nebraska back-to-back in '91 and that was when they were both elite schools. In prior years, we played USC when they had Junior Seau, Illinois with Jeff George, Nebraska again. We played and beat Kansas State in '92.

In fact, I'd argue our show against OU in 2010, Auburn 2011 and Wisconsin 2012, was the perfect barometer of measuring our improvement as a team because we were in a position to win all three late in the game. They were no longer simple body bag games for the $1m payout to keep the program solvent. The 2018 MSU game was similar. Coming off three consecutive poor seasons, it gave fans hope the program had turned around again when we went on the road and played them tight to the final drive.

We routinely played 2 money games a year prior to joining the WAC. I like having 1 a year. I hope it continues.

I agree. I don't see the need for two. I really enjoy playing the big boys, especially when we have a good team. I like to see how we compare when we are at our best.

FloridaAggie13 wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 8:00 am

We've always played money games as long as I can remember; this didn't just start in 2009. As Swordsman mentioned, we played OU and Nebraska back-to-back in '91 and that was when they were both elite schools. In prior years, we played USC when they had Junior Seau, Illinois with Jeff George, Nebraska again. We played and beat Kansas State in '92.

In fact, I'd argue our show against OU in 2010, Auburn 2011 and Wisconsin 2012, was the perfect barometer of measuring our improvement as a team because we were in a position to win all three late in the game. They were no longer simple body bag games for the $1m payout to keep the program solvent. The 2018 MSU game was similar. Coming off three consecutive poor seasons, it gave fans hope the program had turned around again when we went on the road and played them tight to the final drive.

We did well against Texas A&M in 2009 as well.

aggies22 wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 9:04 am

FloridaAggie13 wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 8:00 am

We've always played money games as long as I can remember; this didn't just start in 2009. As Swordsman mentioned, we played OU and Nebraska back-to-back in '91 and that was when they were both elite schools. In prior years, we played USC when they had Junior Seau, Illinois with Jeff George, Nebraska again. We played and beat Kansas State in '92.

In fact, I'd argue our show against OU in 2010, Auburn 2011 and Wisconsin 2012, was the perfect barometer of measuring our improvement as a team because we were in a position to win all three late in the game. They were no longer simple body bag games for the $1m payout to keep the program solvent. The 2018 MSU game was similar. Coming off three consecutive poor seasons, it gave fans hope the program had turned around again when we went on the road and played them tight to the final drive.

We did well against Texas A&M in 2009 as well.

That's right, we only lost by seven. That was the beginning of the trend upward where GA 1.0 was teaching the players it wasn't enough just to show up.

aggies22 wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 3:42 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:53 pm

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

If we don't want to play guarantee games, more season tickets need to be sold and total donations have to go WAY up.

The method for increasing donations, ticket sales, private and corporate revenue (Donations) has always been available. Seems to me the obvious solution is to methodically and professionally work the Wasatch Front. Money and people, graduates and alumni with means and influence [ /b]

Intermeddler wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:20 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 12:36 pm

With BYU dropping us from future games it seems like a good time to reexamine the scheduling philosophy. I would love to see a move toward reducing these to every other year. The excitement of the season getting washed away annually with a loss, and usually a big loss. In 2019 the 6-42 loss to LSU, in 2018 31-38 loss to Michigan State, in 2017 10-59 loss to Wisconsin, in 2016 7-45 loss to USC, in 2015 17-31 loss to Washington, and in 2014 7-38 loss to Tennessee. Most of these games killed excitement in fringe fans. I’m not sure how beneficial these games have been, although I understand they helped pay the bills. I see all MW teams except San Diego State are playing some, so it looks like it’s required for the arms race. Last season didn’t have one and I didn’t miss it. As far as I can see it’s been about 5% of annual revenue, but it appears guarantees are getting smaller while other revenue has increased. I see Iowa in 2023, Mississippi State in 2024, Texas A&M in 2025, and in 2027 the first away game of the Oregon’s 2-1. With the separation between the SEC and Big Ten with the other “P5” schools maybe there is a case for finding a ACC, Big 12 or PAC-10 team. Go Aggies!

One of these is not like the others.

Oh yes. Not trying to celebrate a moral victory by any means, but Michigan State was an exciting game from start to finish. It was pretty clear from one week one that this team was going to be a conference contender.

GeoAg wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:40 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:31 pm

aggies22 wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 3:42 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:53 pm

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

If we don't want to play guarantee games, then more season tickets need to be sold and total donations have to go WAY up.

I wasn’t suggesting going from annual guarantee games to zero, but reducing the number. Possibly change to every third year don’t play one. Colorado State, Wyoming, Fresno, and Hawaii don’t play them every year. Further for the 2009-2010 season USU had $1.4 million in Ticket Sales compared to $2.6 in 2019-2020 (not much effect from Covid). Total revenues went from $19 million to $39 million. I read media rights are expected to go from $1.1 million to $4 million. I know my post on a message board won’t change anything, but it seems like conditions changed enough to look at the possibility. Also, 2021 was a season without a guarantee game. It must be possible.

It isn't possible to balance the budget and not play the guarantee. Every year we balance close to zero WITH a guarantee game. Washington State better have paid us, but they may not have since COVID was out of their control. Even with that costs are going up and our revenues don't put us ahead. We are catching up.

I think the guarantee games are a must. The one change I would like to see is more against the middle and lower tier teams instead of the likes of LSU and Alabama. I like Michigan State and look forward to Iowa next year. No problem with playing those at all.

THIS. Exactly how I feel. I do enjoy the P5 games in September, just wish it was more matchups like that. Preferably Pac-12 and Big 12 teams, but I'm cool with teams like Iowa.

Alabama wins it's playoff games by 30+ points. And those are top 4 teams.. This Aggie team could very well be a 10-win and top 25 team again and repeat as conference champions, but yet we have to see them lose by 45 on week 1. That kinda sucks as a fan. But hey, $1.9 million is $1.9 million. I'd take that check too if I was Hartwell so I get it.

SwaggieAggie wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 3:42 pm

GeoAg wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:40 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:31 pm

aggies22 wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 3:42 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:53 pm

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

If we don't want to play guarantee games, then more season tickets need to be sold and total donations have to go WAY up.

I wasn’t suggesting going from annual guarantee games to zero, but reducing the number. Possibly change to every third year don’t play one. Colorado State, Wyoming, Fresno, and Hawaii don’t play them every year. Further for the 2009-2010 season USU had $1.4 million in Ticket Sales compared to $2.6 in 2019-2020 (not much effect from Covid). Total revenues went from $19 million to $39 million. I read media rights are expected to go from $1.1 million to $4 million. I know my post on a message board won’t change anything, but it seems like conditions changed enough to look at the possibility. Also, 2021 was a season without a guarantee game. It must be possible.

It isn't possible to balance the budget and not play the guarantee. Every year we balance close to zero WITH a guarantee game. Washington State better have paid us, but they may not have since COVID was out of their control. Even with that costs are going up and our revenues don't put us ahead. We are catching up.

I think the guarantee games are a must. The one change I would like to see is more against the middle and lower tier teams instead of the likes of LSU and Alabama. I like Michigan State and look forward to Iowa next year. No problem with playing those at all.

THIS. Exactly how I feel. I do enjoy the P5 games in September, just wish it was more matchups like that. Preferably Pac-12 and Big 12 teams, but I'm cool with teams like Iowa.

Alabama wins it's playoff games by 30+ points. And those are top 4 teams.. This Aggie team could very well be a 10-win and top 25 team again and repeat as conference champions, but yet we have to see them lose by 45 on week 1. That kinda sucks as a fan. But hey, $1.9 million is $1.9 million. I'd take that check too if I was Hartwell so I get it.

Yeah, that's been my complaint. Alabama beats other SEC teams by 30-40 points. Schedule anybody but Alabama.

2004AG wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 3:52 pm

SwaggieAggie wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 3:42 pm

GeoAg wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:40 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:31 pm

aggies22 wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 3:42 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:53 pm

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

If we don't want to play guarantee games, then more season tickets need to be sold and total donations have to go WAY up.

I wasn’t suggesting going from annual guarantee games to zero, but reducing the number. Possibly change to every third year don’t play one. Colorado State, Wyoming, Fresno, and Hawaii don’t play them every year. Further for the 2009-2010 season USU had $1.4 million in Ticket Sales compared to $2.6 in 2019-2020 (not much effect from Covid). Total revenues went from $19 million to $39 million. I read media rights are expected to go from $1.1 million to $4 million. I know my post on a message board won’t change anything, but it seems like conditions changed enough to look at the possibility. Also, 2021 was a season without a guarantee game. It must be possible.

It isn't possible to balance the budget and not play the guarantee. Every year we balance close to zero WITH a guarantee game. Washington State better have paid us, but they may not have since COVID was out of their control. Even with that costs are going up and our revenues don't put us ahead. We are catching up.

I think the guarantee games are a must. The one change I would like to see is more against the middle and lower tier teams instead of the likes of LSU and Alabama. I like Michigan State and look forward to Iowa next year. No problem with playing those at all.

THIS. Exactly how I feel. I do enjoy the P5 games in September, just wish it was more matchups like that. Preferably Pac-12 and Big 12 teams, but I'm cool with teams like Iowa.

Alabama wins it's playoff games by 30+ points. And those are top 4 teams.. This Aggie team could very well be a 10-win and top 25 team again and repeat as conference champions, but yet we have to see them lose by 45 on week 1. That kinda sucks as a fan. But hey, $1.9 million is $1.9 million. I'd take that check too if I was Hartwell so I get it.

Yeah, that's been my complaint. Alabama beats other SEC teams by 30-40 points. Schedule anybody but Alabama.

Well said by my fellow president of the Nick saban fan club

slcagg wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 4:48 pm

2004AG wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 3:52 pm

SwaggieAggie wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 3:42 pm

GeoAg wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:40 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:31 pm

aggies22 wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 3:42 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:53 pm

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

If we don't want to play guarantee games, then more season tickets need to be sold and total donations have to go WAY up.

I wasn’t suggesting going from annual guarantee games to zero, but reducing the number. Possibly change to every third year don’t play one. Colorado State, Wyoming, Fresno, and Hawaii don’t play them every year. Further for the 2009-2010 season USU had $1.4 million in Ticket Sales compared to $2.6 in 2019-2020 (not much effect from Covid). Total revenues went from $19 million to $39 million. I read media rights are expected to go from $1.1 million to $4 million. I know my post on a message board won’t change anything, but it seems like conditions changed enough to look at the possibility. Also, 2021 was a season without a guarantee game. It must be possible.

It isn't possible to balance the budget and not play the guarantee. Every year we balance close to zero WITH a guarantee game. Washington State better have paid us, but they may not have since COVID was out of their control. Even with that costs are going up and our revenues don't put us ahead. We are catching up.

I think the guarantee games are a must. The one change I would like to see is more against the middle and lower tier teams instead of the likes of LSU and Alabama. I like Michigan State and look forward to Iowa next year. No problem with playing those at all.

THIS. Exactly how I feel. I do enjoy the P5 games in September, just wish it was more matchups like that. Preferably Pac-12 and Big 12 teams, but I'm cool with teams like Iowa.

Alabama wins it's playoff games by 30+ points. And those are top 4 teams.. This Aggie team could very well be a 10-win and top 25 team again and repeat as conference champions, but yet we have to see them lose by 45 on week 1. That kinda sucks as a fan. But hey, $1.9 million is $1.9 million. I'd take that check too if I was Hartwell so I get it.

Yeah, that's been my complaint. Alabama beats other SEC teams by 30-40 points. Schedule anybody but Alabama.

Well said by my fellow president of the Nick saban fan club

You'll be happy to know I will be in attendance at the Alabama game. My arm was twisted, and I'm not happy about it, but I will be there.

2004AG wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 4:56 pm

slcagg wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 4:48 pm

2004AG wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 3:52 pm

SwaggieAggie wrote: ↑

August 10th, 2022, 3:42 pm

GeoAg wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:40 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 4:31 pm

aggies22 wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 3:42 pm

Full wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 2:53 pm

Coloraggie wrote: ↑

August 9th, 2022, 1:33 pm

I'm not sure the Michigan State game killed excitement, i think it built excitement to say we competed with a top tier BIG team on the road. The blowouts probably killed excitement.

Unfortunately, these games are money games to pay the bills, not because we think we are competitive. Losing BYU on the schedule only makes the money situation worse so I don't see any way that we drop the money games anytime in the near future.

Ok, even if it was a moral victory, a win over Northern Illinois instead of a loss to Michigan State and an 11-0 start vs 10-1 start is a lot more exciting. I’m not saying I don’t recognize the money, but only New Mexico, San Jose, Nevada and UNLV play guarantee games every year. It was 2009 when we began with the current philosophy, and things have changed since then.

If we don't want to play guarantee games, then more season tickets need to be sold and total donations have to go WAY up.

I wasn’t suggesting going from annual guarantee games to zero, but reducing the number. Possibly change to every third year don’t play one. Colorado State, Wyoming, Fresno, and Hawaii don’t play them every year. Further for the 2009-2010 season USU had $1.4 million in Ticket Sales compared to $2.6 in 2019-2020 (not much effect from Covid). Total revenues went from $19 million to $39 million. I read media rights are expected to go from $1.1 million to $4 million. I know my post on a message board won’t change anything, but it seems like conditions changed enough to look at the possibility. Also, 2021 was a season without a guarantee game. It must be possible.

It isn't possible to balance the budget and not play the guarantee. Every year we balance close to zero WITH a guarantee game. Washington State better have paid us, but they may not have since COVID was out of their control. Even with that costs are going up and our revenues don't put us ahead. We are catching up.

I think the guarantee games are a must. The one change I would like to see is more against the middle and lower tier teams instead of the likes of LSU and Alabama. I like Michigan State and look forward to Iowa next year. No problem with playing those at all.

THIS. Exactly how I feel. I do enjoy the P5 games in September, just wish it was more matchups like that. Preferably Pac-12 and Big 12 teams, but I'm cool with teams like Iowa.

Alabama wins it's playoff games by 30+ points. And those are top 4 teams.. This Aggie team could very well be a 10-win and top 25 team again and repeat as conference champions, but yet we have to see them lose by 45 on week 1. That kinda sucks as a fan. But hey, $1.9 million is $1.9 million. I'd take that check too if I was Hartwell so I get it.

Yeah, that's been my complaint. Alabama beats other SEC teams by 30-40 points. Schedule anybody but Alabama.

Well said by my fellow president of the Nick saban fan club

You'll be happy to know I will be in attendance at the Alabama game. My arm was twisted, and I'm not happy about it, but I will be there.

Why would you not be happy?

Btw make sure to get some dreamland bbq. You’ll thank me later.