Sumlin signs six-year deal with AM

Calling it a "sincere, long-term commitment" to the leader of its football program, Texas A&M officially signed coach Kevin Sumlin to a 6 year, $30 million contract extension Thursday night. The deal, which was agreed upon earlier this month, was formally approved by the Texas A&M System Board of Regents earlier in the day.

According to a press release from the university, Sumlin's average salary -- which was boosted to $3.1 million after last year's 11-2 season -- will now reach $5 million a year.

After attempts by Auburn, USC and the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles to pry Sumlin away over the last calendar year, the university included "specific language" on a buyout clause. Should Sumlin attempt to leave for another job between now and the end of the 2016 season -- including a bowl game -- he would be required to pay a $5 million buyout. After the 2016 season, however, the buyout drops to zero.

Should A&M decide to terminate Sumlin without cause during the length of the contract, the university would pay him $5 million.

After going 8-4 during the 2013 regular season, Sumlin is 19-6 (10-6 SEC) during his two seasons at A&M. The Aggies play Duke in the Chick-fil-a Bowl New Year's Eve.