Fisher excited to return to Arlington despite early team struggles

COLLEGE STATION - The Southwest Classic has been one of college football's favorite weekends since 1903. A battle between Texas A&M and Arkansas is always a must-see spectacle, now in front of the bright lights at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. 

Since 2009, the rivalry has picked up once more. Over the past 10 meetings, the Aggies have found a majority of success, winning seven years straight. On Saturday, the two will meet once more, hoping to rebound following a pair of losses on their record. 

Although some would hope for the spectacle to come to a conclusion, Texas A&M coach Jimbo Fisher is content playing on the big stage away from Kyle Field. 

"I think it's a great thing. I'm not against it," Fisher said. "I think it's great venue to play in. You're in an area where a lot of our players come from. It's great for their families to have access to come there. In recruiting, it's easier for recruits to get to a game. They can come up there and see us."

In recent years, the game has lost its pizazz from prior seasons. The Razorbacks program has declined, failing to make a make bowl game since 2016. The Aggies are beginning their 2019 season off 2-2 following losses to Clemson and Auburn. 

Both teams are under contract until 2025, keeping the game in Arlington for another six seasons. A&M's athletic director Ross Bjork could be on board to transitioning the game back to home versus home affair. 

For now, Fisher relishes in the chance to play at the home of the Dallas Cowboys. He believes playing away from College Station is beneficial in building chemistry internally for the future. 

"Sometimes learning to play in neutral site venues is good for your program because of different scenarios that will occur hopefully in your future" Fisher said.

The Aggies will face Arkansas at 11 A.M. Saturday, September 28. The game will televised on ESPN.