Texas A&M has defeated Arkansas after a game that included everything you could ask for— a two-hour weather delay, huge plays— save a strong defensive performance. In several games already this year, Texas A&M has had one unit or the other playing far below their potential— but every single time, the other side of the ball has been as sure-handed as you can be in response.
This game was decided, in a way, in the first three drives that the Razorbacks had. Though Texas A&M allowed a good bit of yardage to the Hogs, they stopped them twice in the red zone. It would be two of the only stops that the Aggies would get all day, as the legs of Taylen Green proved lethal time and time again for Texas A&M.
Because of those two early stops, Texas A&M was able to hold onto the lead for the entire rest of the game. Arkansas drew close— but never closer than three points. And every single time, the offense answered the bell.
Texas A&M responds times innumerable to Arkansas' offensive barrage, remains undefeated
Texas A&M scored a touchdown on every single drive but two, all the way into the fourth quarter. On one of those two non-touchdown drives, they made a field goal— that's a whopping 5.62 points per drive, which is a mark that would be impressive if it were reached against a Group of Five opponent.
There are obvious things that need to be dealt with, especially defensively, but you can't help but feel like this team's clutch gene is simply different. Those early red zone stops were massive, as was the late offensive possession by Arkansas where the pressure finally got home, taking Taylen Green down for a 20-yard sack.
That all but cemented the victory for the Aggies, as Arkansas had been barely able to hang on and stay connected throughout the game. A&M got the ball back, leading by 10 with minutes left in the fourth quarter, and though a long touchdown run by Reed got called back, the Aggies were eventually able to salt it away— even though fans had to weather another offensive possession by the Razorbacks and what looked like a possible injury to star receiver Mario Craver.
Texas A&M is now 7-0 for the first time since 1994, as Mike Elko's program continues their ascent. The real work still lies ahead, though, as the Aggies still have to venture to LSU, Missouri, and Texas this season. Win just one of those, and you are well in the playoff. Win two, and you're likely in Atlanta. Win all three, and you may just be the number one overall seed.