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The Texas A&M Aggies left the Big 12 and the Texas Longhorns behind in 2012, hoping to forge a new path and a new identity along the way. 

After all, for the previous 118 years, the Aggies had, at least partially, built their persona around their hate for their Lonestar State rivals. 

Unfortunately for Texas A&M (or fortunately depending on how you look at it), the Aggies were not able to escape the shadow of the Longhorns for long.

However, despite much consternation and battling against the decision from the Aggies, Texas is now set to join them in the SEC in the summer of 2024, with the first matchup between the two teams reportedly set for College Station later that year. 

And now, ESPN's Greg McElroy is coming after the Aggies for the apprehensions about reuniting with their in-state rivals.

“Stop playing this inferiority complex," McElroy said. "Stop. Here’s what I would say if I were Texas A&M: I would say anytime, any place, anywhere we’ll play the Longhorns, we’re just glad to have the rivalry back. And we’ll stomp on them when we get our opportunity.”

McElroy's point is valid too. The Aggies should have no reason to fear or debate the Longhorns coming into the SEC as things stand now. 

The additions of the Texas and Oklahoma will only serve to make the SEC stronger, which in turn, should help the Aggies improve as well. 

After all, a rising tide lifts all boats, even in the stormy seas of the SEC. 

You can follow Matt Galatzan on Twitter @MattGalatzan

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