Week 9 Texas A&M Football Report Card: Defense Continues Dominance

Grading the Defensive Positions for Texas A&M Football

Defensive Line: This was one of the poorer offensive lines Texas A&M football would face all year, and this defensive line for the Aggies made sure to capitalize off of that mismatch in talent. The Aggies recorded 4 sacks and 10 TFLs in the game, and it might have been more if not for quick throws, rollouts, and general ability to evade pressure by Spencer Rattler. They also held the Gamecocks to 1.18 YPC, the third time they’ve held an opponent to fewer than 1.20 YPC in the last four games. GRADE: A

Linebacker: The shift in linebacker play this year is way too under-discussed, likely due to the disappointing offensive showing post-Weigman injury.  This is one of the starkest differences from last year to this year, and though it does have a fair amount to do with the fact that the defensive line is beginning to grow up, you can also see the difference in how a veteran like Chris Russell is playing in this scheme. And of course, as even national guys are beginning to note, Edgerrin Cooper is having a Butkus Award-level season, and just keeps getting better every week. The linebacking corps once again acquitted themselves well in this one, whether through blowing up screens, filling gaps, rushing the passer, or anything else they’ve been asked to do. GRADE: A+

Defensive Backs: Don’t look now, but the Aggies may have found something in the secondary that cures the ills they’ve had back there. After being burned deep against Miami and Alabama (and once against Arkansas), the Ags have put together back to back games against impressive QB-receiver combos where they’ve risen to the challenge against the downfield attack. Twice the Gamecocks thought they had a mismatch against Deuce Harmon, and twice he played the ball perfectly. They’ll be tested next week, but I’ve been encouraged at the increased discipline back there. GRADE: A