SEC analyst picks Texas A&M to rebound, make CFP in 2027

Texas A&M's prospects for regaining their footing in 2027 depend heavily on head coach Mike Elko's decisions in the upcoming offseason. This includes whether to replace first-year offensive coordinator Holmon Wiggins and move past veteran starting quarterback Marcel Reed. However, it appears Elko has strategically chosen to keep Reed as starter and retain Wiggins for the remaining three games of the season.

This decision has infuriated the passionate Aggie fan base, but prematurely dismissing Elko after three seasons may not be wise, particularly after he led the program to its first College Football Playoff qualification last year. If Elko were to part ways with Wiggins and Reed, hire a proven play-caller, and allocate sufficient funds for a quarterback with NFL potential, the Aggies could realistically rebound in 2027.

The first-year defensive coordinator, Lyle Hemphill, is expected to return for another season after witnessing the defense's improvement, despite the team's recent two-game losing streak. Additionally, the development of several young defenders has also been noteworthy. With Texas A&M's financial edge, the team is well-positioned to bolster its roster through transfers and new recruits.

If the offensive coordinator and quarterback situation is resolved, there's no doubt the team will improve. This analyst's perspective is shared by That SEC Podcast's Cousin Shane, who has picked Texas A&M as his team to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff in 2027. The tournament's expansion to 24 teams next year further increases the Aggies' chances, with a 9-3 record being sufficient to guarantee a playoff berth.

The SEC teams in contention for a 2027 playoff spot are Arkansas, Vanderbilt, Texas A&M, Mississippi State, or Auburn. Shane suggests Texas A&M, while I propose Mississippi State.