Texas A&M earned itself a season-defining win over the Florida Gators on Saturday afternoon, with backup quarterback Marcel Reid playing with total poise in his first career start in one of the toughest environments in college football.
With starting quarterback Connor Weigman watching from the sideline with a shoulder injury, the redshirt freshman was efficient from the pocket and impressive on the ground, proving he will be the most dynamic playmaker on the roster until Weigman is fully healthy.
Here are three players who stood out in Saturday’s important win:
DE Rylan Kennedy
Texas A&M defensive line big names like Shemar Stewart and Nick Skorton got the usual recognition, while the solid play of defensive end Rylan Kennedy, one of the rising stars of the Aggie defense, made the most of his snaps.
The sophomore, who recorded three tackles on the day, earned a defensive grade of 78.0 (best on the team) and a run defense grade of 73.5 from Pro Football Focus. Kennedy’s length, strength and athleticism make him one of the emerging defensive stars on a strong defensive line.
QB Marcel Reid
What else is there to say about a redshirt freshman? Marcel Reed found out during the team’s pre-kickoff warmups that he would be making his first career start, and he came into the game with a veteran mindset. From start to finish, Reed stuck to the game plan laid out by OC Collin Klein, using his feet to move the chains efficiently while also making checkdowns when needed.
Would Connor Weigman have won this game if he was healthy? I think so, but having watched Reid play within Coach Klein’s scheme, he seems like a better fit. Ultimately, it’s up to head coach Mike Elko.
Texas A&M offensive line
There isn’t just one player who deserves praise on Texas A&M’s offensive line – running backs Le’Veon Moss and Amari Daniels can also be cited – but the O-line paved the way for both running backs to lead the Aggie rushing attack.
The offensive line, from left tackle Trey Zoon to backup center TJ Shanahan, had complete control of the line of scrimmage, pushing Florida’s big defensive linemen off the ball and opening up running lanes. It was just like A&M’s 2020 offensive line that led the team to nine wins.
If they can keep up this type of play and mindset as SEC play gets underway, Texas A&M’s offense has a chance to live up to preseason expectations.
Texas A&M will host Bowling Green on Saturday, Sept. 21. The game will be streamed on ESPN+ and SEC Network+.
Connect/follow @AggiesWire on Twitter and “Like” our page on Facebook for the latest coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinion. Follow Cameron on Twitter: @CameronOhnysty.
