Texas A&M’s 33-20 SEC road victory over the Florida Gators should serve as a springboard for future success. With a relatively favorable schedule ahead, the Aggies have the opportunity to build on the physicality and confidence demonstrated in Saturday’s win.
Head coach Mike Elko’s influence was evident on both sides of the ball, with backup quarterback Marcel Reed delivering an impressive performance supported by strong offensive line play. The Aggies’ rushing attack amassed 310 yards, with Reed contributing 84 of those yards.
On defense, starting safety Bryce Anderson secured his first career pick-six from a tipped pass in the second half, sealing the victory and marking Elko’s first conference win, along with the program’s first SEC road victory since 2021.
As discussions about a possible quarterback controversy arise this week, Elko addressed the media and fans regarding redshirt sophomore quarterback Conner Weigman’s injury status while also previewing Texas A&M’s upcoming Week 4 game against Bowling Green. Here’s what he shared.
Mike Elko on the effort his team showed in Saturday’s win
“One of the things I’m most proud of is that this was easily the greatest effort and intensity our team has shown on tape since I arrived.”
Elko on the Aggies’ high conversion rate and penalties:
“We performed very well on conversion downs on both sides of the ball. However, we need to quickly address the penalties, which came in various forms.”
Elko on facing Bowling Green this weekend:
“They have a really experienced offensive unit that can create a lot of challenges. They excel within their system.”
Elko on senior CB Tyreek Chappell’s injury:
“He was having an outstanding year and made significant contributions during spring ball. We’ll definitely miss him.”
“Injuries happen, so it’s the next man up mentality. Jaydon Hill will need to step up in his absence.”
Elko on finishing the game stronger:
“Overall, our finish wasn’t strong enough, particularly on defense and special teams.”
Elko reflecting on his time as Bowling Green’s defensive coordinator:
“That was my first job as a Division I defensive coordinator, and I learned a lot during that time.”
“I have strong connections with many players from my time at Wake Forest and Bowling Green. There will be familiar faces on the sidelines.”
Elko on QB Conner Weigman’s injury status:
“Conner will be listed as day-to-day and week-to-week.”
“We’ll continue to manage the quarterback situation as we have, playing the guy we feel gives us the best chance to win.”
Elko on Texas A&M’s secondary:
“We’re still learning how to execute coverage in this system effectively at this level.”
“Overall, we followed our plan to create various looks for them, but there’s definitely room for improvement.”
Elko on the offensive line’s identity:
“We’ve tasked our offensive line with being the foundation of our program, which is crucial.”
“We had that strong identity in 2020 and 2021, and these players are eager to embody that for us.”
Elko on QB Marcel Reed’s first start:
“We feel very confident in Marcel.”
“We’ve always had faith in him. His consistency reflects his youth, as he experiences the ups and downs of being a quarterback. He has the skills to help us win.”
Elko on preparing for each opponent:
“We prepare for Bowling Green with respect, knowing any team can beat us.”
“Our main focus will always be on ourselves, aiming to play our best football.”
Elko on overcoming adversity against Florida:
“From that game, we learned how to overcome adversity.”
“We faced three penalties on the first drive and then had a lightning delay. It felt like the odds were against us at times.”
More on Conner Weigman’s injury status:
“We plan to re-evaluate it to ensure we’re not missing anything and to establish the right course of action for the week.”
“This evening, we’ll meet with our medical team to discuss the best plan moving forward.”
Will there be a QB competition when Conner Weigman is healthy?
“Oh, you know I’m not going to comment on that.”
Leave a Reply