No. 8 Texas A&M eyes a bigger playoff finish with QB Marcel Reed back behind a rebuilt line

Texas A&M, led by quarterback Marcel Reed, aims for a higher playoff ranking as the team returns a revamped offensive line. Last season, Texas A&M achieved an 11-2 record and claimed their first College Football Playoff appearance under coach Mike Elko, but fell short in the first round against Miami. Reed, a three-year starter, returns for his third season with the Aggies and is expected to bolster the offense along with receiver Mario Craver and running back Rueben Owens II.

The addition of transfer Isaiah Horton as a big receiver is anticipated to compensate for the departure of K.C. Concepcion to the NFL. Reed, who threw for 3,169 yards and 25 touchdowns last season, will need to minimize turnovers after a career-high 12 interceptions, including two in Texas A&M's last two games. The defense lost consensus All-American defensive end Cashius Howell but now boasts veteran safety Dalton Brooks, defensive tackle DJ Hicks, and pass rusher Anto Saka, who had 12 sacks during his time at Northwestern.

Elko has introduced new coordinators on offense (Holmon Wiggins) and defense (Lyle Hemphill), both of whom have extensive experience within the program. Reed's leadership is crucial for the team as it faces a roster filled with new players. Owens, who rushed for 639 yards and five touchdowns in 2025, is set to return along with Jamarion Morrow, who demonstrated promise in limited play last season.

Craver, the team's second-leading receiver with 919 yards in the previous year, is expected to repeat his strong performance. Coach Elko anticipates another stellar season from Craver. Receiver Ashton Bethel-Roman, who had 503 yards and five scores on just 24 catches last year, will pair up with Craver again. The 6-foot-4, 208-pound Horton, who brought in 511 yards and eight scores for Alabama the previous season, joins the team after a successful stint at Alabama.

The biggest uncertainty for the Aggies lies in their offensive line, as four starters from last year's unit have departed. However, Elko has bolstered the position with a strong cast of experienced transfers, including center Mark Nabou Jr., left tackle Tyree Adams, right guard Trovon Baugh, and left guard Coen Echols. The team also returns highly-rated defensive talent like defensive end Anto Saka, who had 12 sacks at Northwestern, and cornerback Brandon Arrington, who is a freshman.

The Aggies will face their first game against No. 11 LSU on September 26, followed by a matchup against No. 13 Alabama on October 24, and conclude their season against No. 5 Texas on November 27.