Mike Elko Drops Surprising Insights and Bold Predictions in Exclusive SEC Teleconference Reveal

Texas A&M’s gridiron warriors are gearing up for a pivotal clash with Utah State, just a mere three days away. Last Saturday night, the Aggies showcased their prowess by dispatching UTSA 42-24, securing that crucial season-opening victory. Yet, the win was bittersweet—they stumbled defensively, notably in halting the run game, which has me raising an eyebrow. Now, marshalling the offense is redshirt sophomore Marcel Reed, who, alongside transfer wideouts KC Concepcion and Mario Craver, lit up the field with a personal best of 289 yards and four touchdowns. Reed’s growth in the pocket signals a budding dual-threat signal-caller, eager to elevate this Texas A&M squad to new heights. Coach Mike Elko, speaking during the SEC Teleconference, underscored the indispensability of consistency, especially on defense, as the team looks to maintain momentum in hostile territory. The upcoming showdown is not just a test of skill—it’s a statement. Ready to dive into the details? LEARN MORE

Texas A&M’s Week 2 matchup vs. Utah State is just three days away. After defeating UTSA 42-24 last Saturday night, the Aggies accomplished their goal of starting the 2025 season off with a win, but struggled in several areas, including stopping the run.

However, starting quarterback Marcel Reed and transfer wide receivers KC Concepcion and Mario Craver put on a show, as the redshirt sophomore threw for a career high 289 yards and four touchdowns, with 194 yards and three of those touchdowns to Concepcion and Craver. Looking more comfortable in the pocket, Reed has taken the next step towards becoming a true dual-threat.

On Wednesday, coach Mike Elko spoke to the media for the second time this week during the weekly SEC Teleconference, where he continued to discuss the importance of consistency, especially on defense, after allowing over 200 rushing yards against the Roadrunners.

While the Aggies have demonstrated the ability to turn things around in the second half during Elko’s first season, starting fast and maintaining their momentum is equally essential, especially on the road.

Here’s everything Elko had to say during Wednesday’s SEC Teleconference

Elko on what went right and what went wrong against UTSA

“Good to go out and start the season with a win. Obviously, I thought we did a lot of really good things… Defensively, we had one of our better stretches that we’ve played throughout the middle part of the second half.”

Elko on QB Marcel Reed’s improvement in the pocket

I think experience and a lot more comfortability in what we’re doing on offense and what it means to be a quarterback in the conference and to be out there on the big stage.”

“He’s getting more and more comfortable and confident in going out and outleashing that.”

Elko on the importance of consistency on offense and defense as the season resumes

“There were some things that just crept up. Still consistency of how we can play at our best level is something we, as a program, need to continue to strive for.”

Elko on junior linebacker Taurean York’s importance to the team’s success

“It’s hard to put in words how much he does.”

“He’s a leader in a locker room. He’s a leader during the game. He’s also a playmaker. He’s really the complete package for us.”

Texas A&M will host Utah State on Saturday at 11:45 a.m. The game will air on the SEC Network.

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