Texas A&M’s season-opening 23-13 loss to Notre Dame was a mixed bag for fans wanting to see improvement under new head coach Mike Elko. Outside of the Aggie offense failing to find its footing, A&M’s defense was mightily impressive outside of stopping the run late.
One of the defenders who stood out in his Aggie debut, former Florida linebacker Scooby Williams, looked like a new man just a season after struggling in his final season with the Gators. He showed off the athleticism, length, and closing speed that made him a 4-star recruiting prospect.
On the field for 51 defensive snaps, just second to fellow starting linebacker Taurean York (59) on Saturday night, Williams recorded five tackles, three solo tackles, and a tackle for loss while being near the ball carrier or receiver on nearly every play.
Since transferring to Texas A&M, questions regarding Williams’ defensive instincts have slowly been put to rest. Aggie defensive coordinator Jay Bateman served as Florida linebacker coach last season, providing Williams continuity during his first season in College Station.
Even more impressive, Williams was reportedly the second highest-rated defensive player (74.1) for the Aggies against Notre Dame, which is a positive sign for the junior backer.
Texas A&M will host McNeese on Saturday, Sept. 7, for an early kickoff at 11:45 a.m. The game will air on the SEC Network.
Florida transfer and current new Texas A&M linebacker Scooby Williams had the Aggies’ second-highest PFF grade defensively with 74.1 🔥
Despite poorly graded seasons previously, Jay Bateman has his longtime player poised for a big season in College Station. pic.twitter.com/HmWLR3HfFl
— Jaxson Callaway (AT) (@AggiesToday) September 2, 2024
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