Texas A&M dropped three spots in ESPN’s College Football Power Rankings to No. 14 after its 50-0 Week 1 victory over Missouri State. The Aggies’ early offensive line struggles and new offensive coordinator Holmon Wiggins being a first-time play-caller contributed to the drop, according to ESPN writer David Hale.
The Aggies’ defense dominated, allowing only 67 total yards, including 30 passing yards. Quarterback Marcel Reed completed 21 of 30 passes for 233 yards and two touchdowns, while the team rushed for 236 yards and three scores. However, the offensive line, featuring four new starters, initially struggled, allowing two sacks and forcing Reed to scramble on multiple occasions. Coaches Mike Elko and Adam Cushing made second-half adjustments that improved the line’s performance, opening running lanes and providing better pass protection.
Hale noted the improvement, stating, “The O-line might be OK. There was a lot of turnover up front for the Aggies this offseason, and when Week 1 kicked off against Missouri State, it appeared early as if there’d be some serious growing pains…A&M ran for 150 yards in the second half, and Missouri State's defense didn't sniff Reed in the backfield again.”
The Aggies will host Arizona State this weekend, marking their first meeting in 11 seasons. The matchup is considered difficult to predict despite A&M being the betting favorite. The team’s passing attack needs to generate more explosive plays, particularly from transfer receiver Isaiah Horton, who will be facing an Arizona State cornerback rotation where no player exceeds 6’0” in height. The source expresses confidence in a 2-0 start for Texas A&M, citing the defense’s ability to prevent explosive plays and tackle effectively.
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