Jason Fox knows about Texas A&M's football traditions.
The Miami Hurricanes left tackle nearly chose the Aggies as his college of choice and grew up in Texas, just a 2.5 hour ride from College Station.
During his high school senior season, Fox watched Aggies fans kiss their dates -- something they do each time Texas A&M scores -- and sway back and forth in the stands, making the Kyle Field stands an intimidating spectacle.
When the Hurricanes visit the Aggies on Saturday, Fox doesn't want to think about lip-locking or "12th man"
traditions.
"We're going on a business trip and we're going to play football,"
said Fox, a native of Fort Worth, Texas.
So far this season, the three-year starter has handled his business.
"He's kept me clean,"
quarterback Robert Marve said. "I don't get hit too much on his side."
Besides a stinging defense, Miami's offensive line has stood out as one of its strengths.
Through the first two games of the season, Marve and backup Jacory Harris have been sacked four times, fourth lowest in the ACC. And Fox has helped grade them above expectations.
"The guys really respect Fox and they really turn to him,"
Miami coach Randy Shannon said. "He keeps improving every year and he's gained weight and he's really done well."
Marve said Fox has made his transition easy by simply being a leader.
"Talking to me, encouraging me, when them guys say, 'Hey Robert I'm going to give you some time, just go back there and do your thing,' it really makes you feel good,"
Marve said.
Marve needed that support against Florida, when he made his first start in front of a hostile crowd of 90,833 at The Swamp. This week should be just as tough.
Besides the crowd, Miami will be without its top running back, Javarris James, who suffered a high ankle sprain against Florida and isn't expected back for another three weeks.
The Hurricanes (1-1) will play an experienced duo in Graig Cooper and Derron Thomas, but behind them, the talent is young.
Last year, the Hurricanes trounced Texas A&M 34-17 at home, with James only gaining 46 yards on the ground.
In the stands, Fox knows how crazy the atmosphere will be. Texas A&M fans refer to themselves as the "12th man"
because they consider themselves a part of the team.
"I know it's crazy,"
Fox said. "A lot of guys have been asking me about it. They got some crazy fans."
Fox thinks his fans will be a bit crazier, though. He has been scrounging tickets for family members since fall camp and is expecting 40 on game day.
As of Tuesday's practice, he was still looking for more handouts.
"I'm really excited to go back,"
said Fox. "Hopefully, their fans won't be doing much kissing."
