Texas A&M’s 2024 season didn’t live up to the mid-season expectations after the Aggies stood at 7-1 and 5-0 in SEC play, but after the loss of star running back Le’Veon Moss, the offense sputtered and never looked the same.
Despite the late-season quarterback transition to redshirt freshman Marcel Reed, progress was evident. Reed led the Aggies to a perfect 3-0 record, concluding his inaugural season with a 4-3 overall record.
Statistically, Reed completed 61% of his passes for 1,572 yards and 12 touchdowns while running for 501 yards and six touchdowns, living up to his dual-threat billing in several games. While OC Collin Klein endured scrutiny for poor playcalling toward the end of the year, it’s assumed that he will fit the offense to Reed’s skillset even more so in 2025.
However, Reed’s struggles in the passing game were evident in the season finale loss to Texas, throwing for just 146 yards and an interception against the Longhorn’s elite secondary. Still, Reed’s first entire season was just the start of what’s to come for a player with all the traits to turn into a star signal caller.
Gaining healthy mass is crucial for Reed to maximize his potential this offseason. However, Coach Mike Elko needs to bring in playmakers at wide receiver and tight end from the transfer portal to complement the returning and incoming players, especially five-star WR Jerome Myles.
Suppose we’re discussing Reed as a Heisman Trophy candidate. In that case, he’ll need borderline elite blocking and a true No. 1 wide receiver, which could be Myles as soon as the youngster steps on campus. However, the realistic option looks like former Texas Tech wideout Micah Hudson, who committed to the Aggies on Sunday night.
Reed’s confidence and work ethic match on-field talent, which should garner preseason praise. However, expect the media to recognize Reed as something other than the 2025 starter after the Aggies landed veteran QB Jacob Zeno from the portal.
Zeno’s commitment only benefits Reed and the young Aggie quarterback room, providing insurance and barring future injuries. However, if Marcel Reed is going to reach new heights, having a worthy opponent to push him toward his goals and challenge him throughout fall camp is the best path to success.
The bottom line is that Marcel Reed’s speed, elusiveness, and ability to make plays out of structure are why he should at least be considered a Heisman candidate.
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