OFFENSE DEFENSE

Over the last two seasons, the Aggies have been at or near the bottom of the SEC in many offensive categories, namely passing offense. Conner Weigman threw eight touchdown passes in his five games with no picks, but maybe it was the loss of top receiver Ainias Smith, maybe it was the play calling, or maybe it was Weigman, but the passing attack drifted from conservative into oblivion during the season. New offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino is determined to jolt the passing game, and he certainly has the receivers to do that. Smith returns after just four games last season. Evan Stewart led the team with 53 catches for 649 yards. Moose Muhammad III added 38 for 610. Five-star running back Rueben Owens will be in the rotation and is likely to end up with the most carries. He’s big and fast. The offensive line has underperformed based on their supposed talent.

The Aggies’ defense was decent, but certainly not excellent last season. All those big fellas with lots of stars in front of their names during recruiting haven’t exactly panned out for the Aggies, if they’re still around, that is. Walter Nolen has been the most productive and he must continue to step up. A&M coaches believe that Shemar Turner and Fadil Diggs will blossom. But this team gave up big rushing totals last season and was torched by Ole Miss for 390 rushing yards. Without a solid front four, the safeties will continue to have high tackle numbers. Edgerrin Cooper is a sound linebacker who can make plays behind the line, but he needs help. The secondary was remade through the portal with top notch corners Tony Grimes (North Carolina) and Josh DeBerry (Boston College) joining the squad. Sam McCall (Florida State) is a rising star.

Special Teams

Special Teams

2023 Schedule Newcomers

Rueben Owens, RB — The five-star runner (No. 2 running back) has the talent to emerge as the feature back. He was slow to come around in the spring, but the light bulb came on just before the summer. He’ll be a part of a rotation until he finds his groove.

Chase Bisontis, OL — Ranked as the No. 2 interior offensive lineman in high school, Bisontis spent much of the spring at tackle, where he impressed coaches.

Tony Grimes, CB — Grimes will draw No. 1 receiver assignments.