(Photo: The Dallas Morning News)
Campus Clash
(3) Texas A&M at (16) Texas Longhorns
Texas A&M (11-0):
People can say what they want about the Aggies, but they’ve handled their business and won games. I didn’t know what to expect from them early on, but Mike Elko deserves all the credit in the world for bringing this team together and getting the best out of them. I’ve been paying more attention to them ever since they stormed into South Bend and came away with a one-point victory over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Since then, they’ve been rolling and clicking on all cylinders. As great as Elko has been this year, he’s found the right formula, and it starts with Offensive Coordinator Collin Klein. In turn, Klein has developed Marcel Reed, who has grown into a strong, confident passer. Like many of you, I paid close attention to their Week 12 game against South Carolina. Believe me, I was shocked they came back—and then again, I wasn’t, because no lead is safe in this sport. This Texas A&M team is battle-tested and appears capable of handling anything thrown their way. Offensively, they’re balanced and versatile, able to attack defenses through a punishing ground game or the passing attack featuring star wide receiver Mario Craver. I’d go as far as saying Marcel Reed could receive an invite to New York for the Heisman Trophy presentation—he’s been that solid. And where would this Aggies team be without his play? This Friday night, they close their regular season in Austin against a rather disappointing Texas team.
Texas (8-3):
Considering they were one game away from reaching the national title in consecutive seasons, their performance this year makes them, in my opinion, the biggest disappointment in college football. They’ve frustrated me because I know for a fact they’re much better than what we’ve seen from them in 2025. Last season, their offense had its moments, but it was nowhere near as inconsistent as it has been this year with Arch Manning—just as it was with Quinn Ewers at times. The struggles aren’t on the Texas defense; in fact, that unit has been the backbone of the entire team. The issues stem from their offense: they’ve struggled to run the ball, and Arch has been up-and-down all season. Just imagine if he played all year the way he did against Arkansas—he’d be at the top of everyone’s rankings, and this team would be in a much better spot. Too often, they’ve played down to their competition (the Kentucky game is a perfect example), and they’ve repeatedly gotten in their own way. If the offensive line had been better, things might have turned out differently. To end the regular season, they’ll welcome Texas A&M to Austin.
Texas A&M X-Factor: LT Overton
I often say rivalry games come down to the trenches, and whoever applies pressure more consistently usually comes out on top. LT Overton is an absolute game-wrecker for an Aggies defense that’s been one of the best in the country. He will be key in pursuing Arch Manning and attacking a pair of Longhorns tackles that have been inconsistent in protection this season. LT can disrupt the backfield and plays with versatility on the edge. He can set the edge against the run or crash inside when rushing the passer. He’s the type of player who can record a sack or a TFL that completely flips a drive.
Texas X-Factor: Anthony Hill Jr.
The heart and soul not only of this defense, but of the entire football team. Anthony has been one of the best linebackers in the country and is an instant tone-setter. He has elite speed and reaches the football quicker than most expect. I expect him to play a major role in limiting the A&M running game. He’ll also be key as a spy against Reed, and Texas will use him as a blitzer and in coverage. His versatility stands out. For Texas to have a chance, the entire defense must be on the same page, and it starts with Anthony making sure everyone is where they need to be.
Final Thoughts:
This rivalry returned last season after their first meeting since 2011. The game was in College Station, Texas won, and they clinched a spot in the SEC title game. This time, they meet in Austin, and the Longhorns would love nothing more than to spoil a perfect season for one of their fiercest rivals. With a win, the Aggies will punch their ticket to the SEC Championship Game. For Texas A&M, the first key is disrupting Arch Manning early and often—they have the defensive line to do it. The Longhorns offense is rhythm-based, and young quarterbacks tend to struggle against consistent pressure, which often leads to turnovers when the pocket collapses. A&M must also control the clock with their running game, wearing down the Texas defense and keeping them on the field. Lastly, they must win third-down and red-zone situations: force Texas into field goals, create long-yardage downs, and stay ahead of the chains on offense. For Texas, limiting turnovers is non-negotiable. This is a disciplined A&M defense, and every extra possession likely turns into points. Protect the football—especially in the red zone. The Texas defense will be tested by A&M’s balanced offense, but they’ve been elite all year against both the run and the pass. The front seven must get home and contain Reed. Lastly: stay disciplined and avoid mental errors. If Texas keeps this game clean and controlled, they can dictate the tempo. This should be a fun one on Friday night.
