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The physical aspect of sports obviously tends to be the biggest factor in the outcome of a contest, but it would be foolish to underestimate the impact gaining a psychological edge on your opponent can have when everything is said and done.
Most players will do what they can to get into the heads of their foes over the course of a game, but fans can also play a major role in giving their team an advantage when they’re playing at home.
That’s especially true in college football, as crowd noise can have a very real impact on the action by making it difficult for the visiting team to communicate or get a snap off in time. However, that’s not the only way spectators can play a role.
A number of programs across the country do what they can to up the intimidation factor by directing people who attend the game to coordinate their outfits in order to ensure the stands are dominated by a single color.
Penn State’s “White Out” is probably the most iconic example, but Texas A&M also gets in on the action with the “Maroon Out” that is scheduled for a game at Kyle Field each season.
On Tuesday, the fans who comprise the school’s “12th Man” were informed this year’s Maroon Out will be held on November 11, 2023 when the Aggies face off against Mississippi State.
Mark your calendars…on 11/11 the Aggies are going to Maroon Out Kyle Field! pic.twitter.com/Kd3kN2BG1B
— Texas A&M Maroon Out (@MaroonOut) May 23, 2023
However, it didn’t take long for people to point out one minor issue with that decision: Mississippi State also wears maroon uniforms when they play at home, which means they likely won’t be overwhelmed by a sight they’re already a bit used to—a reality plenty of people were quick to highlight.
Well at least we know the visiting fans will also be participating
— MarcAg (@MarcAg_) May 23, 2023
https://twitter.com/UT4x_champs/status/1661187498423222275
We’re going to maroon out a maroon opponent? This is why we can’t have nice things. 🤦🏼♀️
— WrigleyMama (@MamaWrigley) May 23, 2023
So it looks like you have more fans than you actually do? https://t.co/qYRfF9bTHU
— KR (@katieroseoq) May 24, 2023
Texas A&M will be hosting a number of opponents who also incorporate some shade of red into their gear (specifically New Mexico, Alabama, Arkansas, UL-Monroe, and South Carolina); Aubrun seemed like the most obvious choice, but Mississippi State is probably the worst possible option considering everything on the table.
This isn’t the first time Texas A&M has made a questionable decision concerning its upcoming schedule, so I guess we’ll just have to wait and see if it’s the last.