HUNTSVILLE, Alabama - Now it's onto the next big competition, the recruiting battles, for the Alabama A&M coaching staff. And despite the Bulldogs' disappointing 4-8 season, the recruiting will be much more to augment than it will be as a quick fix.
Alabama A&M has just wrapped up one of those seasons that "every now and then happens at this level, unfortunately." Replacing two dozen graduated players from 2012 meant a daunting rebuilding chore.
The season ended in a 66-7 loss to Georgia Tech, the worst A&M defeat since 1936, a result and point spread that was not altogether unexpected. Complicating the scenario for the Bulldogs, aside from the mismatch in talent, was the difficulty in stopping Tech's unique option offense, one of the best rushing attacks in the country.
Here are some highs, lows and where the Bulldogs are going:
High point: A 19-18 win at Alcorn State, which led SWAC teams with nine overall victories.
Low point: The 28-9 homecoming loss to Mississippi Valley in which the Bulldogs dominated statistically but committed six turnovers.
Star power: Linebacker Robert Nelson, with 100 tackles, should be a no-brainer All-SWAC pick. Running back Barrington Scott (1,055 yards), defensive backs Lawrence Barnett and Derrick Harris (four interceptions each), receiver Montaurius Smith (64.6 yard per game) and defensive end Tae Keith should also get some recognition.
The replacements: The Bulldogs lose seven defensive starters but only three on offense - Scott, Demario Ross and Jonathan Nelson. Another key, but underappreciated loss, is long snapper Jordan Roman, virtually impeccable for four seasons.
"We'll be a much improved team on offense, and we'll add some people we've put on the shelf as redshirts," Jones said
Jaymason Lee, who will go into spring with a solid hold on the No. 1 QB job, will have three of his top five receivers back.
Secret weapons: Because Scott and Brandon Eldemire, who was sidelined late with an ankle injury, were able to carry the rushing load, A&M was able to redshirt three running backs - Joshua Sandlin, Juaquin Davis and Marcus Sanders.
The recruiting: The coaching staff as already hit the highways to take advantage of an early recruiting period. Mostly because of budget limitations, but partly with an emphasis to build locally, they'll not travel far.
They'll need to lock down the quarterback-of-the-future, with Lee going into his senior season and Brandon Wells his junior year. A punter is also needed.
Some instant help, perhaps from junior colleges, could help at linebacker and in the secondary.
The positive experience with Barrington Scott and Lawrence Barnett as post-grad transfers - the NCAA permits automatic eligibility for players who have earned degrees to transfer if their current institution does not offer the post-grad degree path they desire - will encourage A&M to keep an open mind on that realm and likely have A&M fielding inquiries from potential transfers.
COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
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