Texas A&M Aggies

Junior quarterback Marcel Reed returns after throwing for 3,169 yards and 25 touchdowns but also 12 interceptions last season. His consistency and decision-making in big games will determine whether the Aggies can reach consecutive 10-win seasons for the first time in over 30 years. New offensive coordinator Holmon Wiggins and quarterbacks coach Joey Lynch are focused on reducing turnovers and improving Reed's performance against top SEC opponents.

All-SEC receiver Mario Craver (917 yards in 2025) leads a deep group that includes emerging deep threat Ashton Bethel-Roman and 6-foot-4 Alabama transfer Isaiah Horton, who provides a reliable target on 50-50 balls. The Aggies have no shortage of big-play ability, but consistency from the passing game will be critical to complement the running attack led by Rueben Owens II.

Center Mark Nabou Jr. is the only returning starter on the offensive line, but the Aggies added four transfers with SEC starting experience, including tackles Wilkin Formby from Alabama and Tyree Adams from LSU. The line's ability to protect Reed and open holes for Owens will be a major factor in the offense's success.

The secondary, led by safeties Marcus Ratcliffe and Dalton Brooks and cornerback Dezz Ricks, was third in the SEC in pass defense last season. However, the Aggies managed only three interceptions and must improve that total. The pass rush loses SEC Defensive Player of the Year Cashius Howell, so sophomore Marco Jones and transfer Anto Saka need to step up to maintain the nation's fourth-best sack rate from 2025.

Illinois transfer kicker David Olano (86% career field goal success) should stabilize a previously erratic kicking game. The Aggies also have explosive return threats in Mario Craver (punts) and Terry Bussey (kickoffs). Head coach Mike Elko has built a physical, competitive culture that handles adversity well, as noted by an opposing SEC assistant, and the team aims to consistently contend for the SEC title and a playoff spot.