 In the 2004 season, Franchione attempted the rebuilding process as the team improved to a 7–5 record, and a 5–3 record in conference play, including a 35–34 overtime loss to unranked Baylor, ending a 13-game winning streak the Aggies had over Baylor and a 32–25 overtime win over the then #25 Texas Tech at Kyle Field, snapping a 3-game skid to the Red Raiders.The Aggies ended up advancing to the Cotton Bowl Classic to play #17 Tennessee, but lost 38–7.Following the bowl game, A&M officials extended Franchione's contract through 2012 and raised his salary to $2 million.