I've read several articles that have reviewed A&M's 41-6 rout of New Mexico, and all of them contain a similar theme coming from Sherman: the team chemistry has really helped so far.

From the DMN:

A total of 18 freshmen played for A&M and the Aggies produced their most complete victory since Mike Sherman became the head coach in November 2007. Sherman said the veterans deserve credit for embracing the newcomers in August camp and developing strong team chemistry.

 "It could easily be an environment of hierarchy around here, where the kids have to wait to feel accepted," Sherman said. "We have an unselfish group and they really help the freshmen along."

From the AAS:

"The story's really not about them as much as it is the older guys who embraced the freshmen and brought them into the fold," Sherman said. "They've made them feel a part of things."

Several "veterans" — if you consider sophomores as veterans — also played well. Receiver Jeff Fuller caught 10 passes for 111 yards, both career highs, and a touchdown.

From the FWST:

"I think the story is not about the freshmen as much as it is about the older guys that have embraced the freshmen and brought them into the fold," Sherman said after watching 15 members of his 2009 signing class make their college debuts. "They have really helped the freshmen along."

What Sherman's quotes on current team chemistry has left unsaid is that this obviously wasn't always the case, and we're talking about issues with last year. What I am really impressed with is the fact that the underclassmen like Trent Hunter and Jeff Fuller are taking a leadership role on this team, and doing everything they can to embrace their fellow underclassment to help the tea win. Sherma has created an inclusive environment where the best players can play immediately if they will help the team win games, and playing 18 freshmen on Saturday underscores that fact.

What I like about Sherman's "all hands on deck, everyone in the boat" approach is that it is similar to what we've seen from Pete Carroll at USC, where he lets the best players play, regardless of class year or experience. Carroll starting true freshman Matt Barkeley to open the season against San Jose State is just another example of this approach to team-building. Thankfully, we don't have to start a true freshman at QB this season, and I am not saying we're going to become the next USC, but for models to follow, the USC program isn't a bad one to look at.

I'm not sure some realize the sacrifices some of these players are making, all in the name of winning. It takes a very unselfish person to say, "I have put in 2 (or 3 or 4) more years of off-season conditioning and in-season work than this true freshman coming in, but he is more talented and can become a better player than I am, so I am going to help him become the best player he can be, even if it means he might eventually  take my starting spot."

To get all of the players to buy-in and embrace the youngsters is a credit to Sherman and the rest of the coaching staff.