Jimbo Fisher says Ainias Smith injury 'hurts my heart'

On3 imageby:Sam Gillenwater09/29/22

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The loss of Ainias Smith will have a major impact on Texas A&M the rest of the way. The senior wide receiver was a big part of an offense that has already had its struggles this season. Jimbo Fisher hates it for the player but also realizes what it means for his team as well.

Fisher spoke about Smith’s injury during his radio show on Wednesday. First and foremost, he expressed sadness for Smith that the special player and person that he is won’t be back on the field in 2022.

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“He is (special). Just the leadership, how much experience he has, how he’s with those young receivers out on the field and gets them straight in doing things. He has a versatility in the way he plays. A punt returner, playing in the backfield, playing out of the backfield. He’s just a complete football player,” said Fisher. “I hate it. It hurts my heart for him because of how special a young man is and how hard he competes.”

Smith had caught 15 passes for 291 yards and two touchdowns so far this season. All three are the best of the Aggie’s wide receiving corps. That’s a major loss, but Fisher wants his young players to realize the opportunity that comes with it. It may have cost Smith his season, but it will give at least one of them a chance to fill his role in the offense.

“The other guys have to look at this now as it’s an opportunity for me to step up. So hopefully they’ve been preparing to play,” said Fisher.

The Aggies will have to adjust quickly with a game against Mississippi State up next. Points will be a premium in that one as A&M’s defense will have to slow the Bulldogs down enough to keep their offense alive. Smith’s season being lost is unfortunate but Texas A&M has no time to waste. It’s up to one of their other receivers to make a name for themselves to end this week and be ready for kickoff in Starkville.