Three risers and one faller in Texas A&M's second half defensive avalanche

This is now back-to-back weeks where the Aggies have had to depend on defense to finish off their opponent. While the Aggies are now the No. 4 team in the land for the first time since 2020, every fan would agree that the Aggies need a little bit of work before taking on LSU and Missouri.

The offense came out piping hot to start the game, with a bomb from Marcel Reed to Mario Craver to eventually cap off their first drive with a touchdown in just two plays. A back-and-forth offensive contest led to the Aggies putting up 21 points in the first half, but depended on their defense to make plays when the offense slowed down for the remainder of the game.

We have your weekly three risers and one faller in another defensive battle.

Riser: Daymion Sanford

Back-to-back weeks as a riser? You bet.

Sanford has straight up earned everything. He's the prime example of working hard and having it finally pay off. His forced fumble was probably the best play of the night, but it seems like Sanford is doing everything out there.

Riser: Cashius Howell

We need the SEC leader in sacks up here.

Cashius is playing out of his mind every week, and it's clear he's got something to prove. Howell is not just becoming a team star, he's becoming one of those rare game wreckers that any team would love.

Faller: Dezz Ricks

Not the end of the world, but Dezz Ricks wasn't his usual self last night. DJ Lagway didn't hesitate to test Ricks in coverage, and Dallas Wilson scored on a touchdown on him in the first quarter.

There will be better days for him, obviously. He looked a lot better outside of the first two drives.

Riser: Rueben Owens II

Owens was the answer after Le'Veon Moss went down to injury. Elko told reporters that he was hopeful Moss would be OK, but they have to learn how to play without him if necessary.

Owens ran for 17 carries, 51 yards and a touchdown. Nothing eye-popping by any means, but it shows how Texas A&M is in a good place with Owens as the lead back.

Texas A&M needs the top back to return as soon as possible with Le'Veon Moss, but Owens has done some nice work thus far. He needs to slow down a little bit and be more patient with his blockers, but if he doesn, he has explosive ability.