COLLEGE STATION, TX - September 16, 2023 - Quarterback Conner Weigman #15 of the Texas A&M Aggies during the Football game between the ULM Warhawks and the Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field in College Station, TX. Photo By Craig Bisacre/Texas A&M Athletics
Texas A&M
2023 Results: 7-6, 4-4 SEC
2024 Projection: 7-5, 4-4 SEC
Overview:
The Jimbo Fischer project came to an expensive end in College Station, but Mike Elko seems like a really solid hire after what he achieved at Duke. He will have his work cut out for him as he puts his stamp on the program, but there are pieces in place for him to make noise in his first season with the “12th Man” at his disposal. The resources to build a juggernaut have always been there and Elko will make this a blue-collar team with the talent to win in time.
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- COLLEGE STATION, TX – September 16, 2023 – Defensive lineman Shemar Turner #5 of the Texas A&M Aggies during the game between the ULM Warhawks and the Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field in College Station, TX. Photo By Evan Pilat/Texas A&M Athletics
Offense:
From transfers to injuries, the quarterback position has been a revolving door the past few seasons, and Conner Weigman, who had a strong start to 2023 before a season-ending injury, will look to bring consistency to the most important position on the field. He has a talented group of receivers to throw to, led by Moose Muhammad III, Jahdae Walker, and Noah Thomas. Rueben Owens looks like he will start at running back, and will hopefully provide some consistency at that position. The Aggies return three starters on the offensive line, but that group has to show improvement after a dismal 2023 campaign
Defense:
Even with several players transferring, the front seven should be stout. They are young at linebacker, but Taurean York is going to be a star and got plenty of experience during his freshman season. Shemar Turner is back at tackle to anchor the middle of the line and will be joined by former Purdue Boilermaker and last season’s sack leader in the Big 10, Nic Scourton. Rushing the passer shouldn’t be an issue in Aggieland this season. The secondary has question marks, but that aforementioned pass rush should provide guys like Tyreek Chappel a chance to find their footing.
Special Teams:
Special teams for the Aggies were far from special in 2023. Returning placekicker, Randy Bond must improve on his 74.3 percentage on field goal attempts and the battle for the punting position could bleed into the first few games.
Final Thoughts:
Elko seems to be just what the Aggies need. He will bring an edge to this team, to replace the ego of the former staff. It might not result in more wins this season, but I’ll be surprised if he doesn’t have this program in the mix for conference championships and more by year three. They could make noise this season if the offensive line and secondary overachieve.
