Arkansas State safety Brandon Barnes believes championships are built long before kickoff.
For the veteran defensive leader, that process has centered on developing relationships, strengthening the team’s culture and ensuring one of the Sun Belt Conference’s most experienced rosters is connected before the Red Wolves take the field this fall.
Speaking Wednesday during Sun Belt Conference Football Media Days, Barnes said Arkansas State has emphasized leadership and team chemistry throughout the offseason as the program prepares for what many expect to be a championship-caliber season.
“I think this is one of the closest teams we’ve had since I’ve been here,” Barnes said. “Everybody’s connected, everybody’s bought in, and we’re all working toward the same goal.”
Barnes said that connection has been intentional.