Looking at the matchups that matter, the offensive and defensive lines
After a long offseason full of change for the Texas A&M Aggies, we’ve finally arrived at the first game week of the season. It’s a chance for the defensive line we’ve heard so much about to prove their worth and for the offensive line to hopefully show improvement.
The Aggies don’t have the fortune of easing into the season in 2024 as they open with a top ten opponent right out of the gate. Let’s take a look at the matchups in the trenches and see what needs to happen for the Aggies to come out on top.
Texas A&M OL vs. Notre Dame DL
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The good news for the Texas A&M offensive line? They should be better than they were last year. Unfortunately, that bar is not a high one to clear. The bad news? Texas A&M draws an extensively experienced Notre Dame defensive front anchored across the board by 5th-year seniors.
A difficult challenge is laid out in front of this unit come Saturday at Kyle Field but I do believe that this position group will get a boost from some savvy playcalling. As a fan, keep an eye out for more pulling linemen with Collin Klein now at the offensive coordinator position. Creative concepts in the run and heavy play action will be the keys for this offensive line in trying to gain traction against the Fighting Irish.
As for who will be manning Texas A&M’s offensive line, we know for a certainty that Trey Zuhn at left tackle and Chase Bisontis at left guard have locked down the left side. The dreaded “or” on the depth chart tells a bit of a different picture on the right side. While Ar’maj Reed-Adams seems to be locked in at right guard while both center and right tackle will likely feature multiple players.
At center, Kolinu’u Faaiu and Mark Nabou will likely both see playing time. Meanwhile, at right tackle both Dametrious Crownover and Reuben Fatheree will see the field at times.
One final piece I don’t want to discount in this matchup?
Look for the tight ends to play a role. Tre Watson has been named starter at the position but I’m expecting every member of that depth chart to contribute.
I’m still not quite sure what to expect out of this Texas A&M offensive line in the first year in the Elko era, but I do know we’ll find out in a hurry when they face Notre Dame.
Texas A&M DL vs. Notre Dame OL
Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images
With the addition of defensive end Nic Scourton from Purdue, Texas A&M has one of the best defensive lines in the country. At least on paper. With Shemar Stewart on the other defensive end and Shemar Turner and DJ Hicks occupying the interior, this Aggie defensive front is fearsome.
I expect them to be stout against both run and pass, especially against a relatively inexperienced Notre Dame offensive line. While the Irish have a history of producing talented offensive lines, losing a projected starter at left tackle early in camp doesn’t bode well for the Irish against this A&M defensive unit.
I expect the Aggies to be in the backfield early and often.
If Texas A&M gets to obvious passing downs, keep an eye out for Cashius Howell as well – the former Bowling Green Falcon is too productive as a pass rusher to keep off the field.
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With that, we set the stage for the first game of Texas A&M’s 2024 campaign and the first game of the Mike Elko era. A massive tilt against Notre Dame looms large on Saturday night. I believe that the offensive and defensive lines for the Aggies will rise to the challenge but we shall see.