Texas A&M (8-3, 5-2 SEC) may have left Alabama with a disappointing overtime loss to Auburn. Still, after Alabama’s shocking defeat against Oklahoma, the Aggies are just a win away from facing Georgia in the SEC Championship game.
However, facing No. 3 Texas in the revival of the Lone Star Showdown is a very tall task given the Longhorn’s elite playmakers on offense and the Aggies’ issues in the secondary. Still, the fact that this game will be played inside a sold-out Kyle Field looks like an advantage on paper for the Maroon & White.
This week’s preparation is vital, especially for OC Collin Klein, whose late play calls deserve scrutiny, including an option run to the short side of the field on 3rd & 6 in overtime with a chance to win the game with a touchdown.
After the game, Pro Football Focus released the latest grades from the matchup. Here are the most notable grades on both sides of the ball for every Texas A&M contributor:
Offense:
Texas A&M’s offensive line posted collectively impressive pass protection grades, as right guard Ar’maj Reed-Adams (85.7), left guard TJ Shanahan (87.1), and left guard Chase Bisontis (80.8) led the way.
Receiving more than enough time in the pocket, starting quarterback Marcel Reed, who accounted for 360 yards and three touchdowns, earned the second-highest offensive grade (70.4) and a 73.9 passing grade in one of his best performances of the year.
Defense:
The much-maligned CB Jaydon Hill left the game early after seven snaps due to a mild injury. Still, it earned the highest defensive grade (79.0). Still, the play of linebacker Scooby Williams, who avoided what looked like a brutal lower-body injury, earned a 77.9 defensive grade and an impressive 82.0 run defense grade.
Overall, 17 Aggie defenders earned a 60 defensive grade or better, but tackling was an issue once again. 14 missed tackles were recorded, while just three sacks were recorded on the night.
No. 19 Texas A&M will host No. 3 Texas on Saturday, Nov. 30 at 6:30 pm. CT. The game will air on ABC.
Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.