Since his arrival at Texas A&M as its new coach, Mike Sherman has spent time showing his amiable side.

He has frequently attempted to connect with the Aggies' fan base, realizing that was perceived as one of the weaknesses that eventually cost his predecessor, Dennis Franchione.

But Sherman, who spent the last 11 seasons in the NFL after previously serving as an A&M assistant under R.C. Slocum, also commanded the attention of the players he inherited.

By installing digital clocks throughout the A&M football complex, Sherman emphasized the need for players to be on time to meetings and practices.

"They have to be accountable," Sherman said. "And to me, being on time is a matter of respect, respecting your teammates and your coaches. You don't walk in late."

The strict scheduling includes 6 a.m. workouts for 10 days prior to the start of spring practice. Sherman immediately demonstrated his business-like approach and gained credibility as more than just someone who once coached Brett Favre in the NFL.

"Just the way he takes care of business, he gets everybody to buy in and make sure they are doing what they are supposed to do," quarterback Stephen McGee told the Houston Chronicle. "He did that from day one."

Of course, that's only a start. Rebuilding the Aggies following a disappointing 7-6 finish, which included a loss in the Alamo Bowl following Franchione's forced resignation, is not going to be easy. Especially when A&M returns the fewest starters (four offense, five defense and two special teams) of any program in the Big 12.

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