5. Erik McCoy
One of the most important and underrated players on Texas A&M is starting center Erik McCoy. McCoy got banged up and had to leave the last game against Louisiana-Monroe. Fisher said they didn’t think it was serious and expects him to play against Alabama.
McCoy’s health will be a major factor in this game. He would have his hands full as it is even if he were healthy. Raekwon Davis is one of the best defensive ends in the country. He could be a first-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. For this reason, teams have felt the need to double-team Davis.
This has opened things up for nose tackle Quinnen Williams. When we asked Bama Hammer who is one defensive player the Aggies should fear, Williams was the guy Ron Evans identified. He will be matched up with McCoy during most of this game.
McCoy has to win this matchup to open up holes for Trayveon Williams and keep the pocket clean for Kellen Mond. The offense depends on McCoy anchoring the offensive line. He’d better be 100 percent or close to it.