Rapid Reaction: Texas A&M pushes Alabama to the edge, loses by four to Tide

This game did not go how anyone thought it would. Entering as a three touchdown underdog, the Texas A&M Aggies pushed the Alabama Crimson Tide all the way to the end, losing 24-20, having a chance to win as the clock ran out. The Texas A&M defense mostly had their way with the Alabama offense, holding them below 49 points for only the second time this season and forcing four turnovers. The Aggies offense hit a stride at times but came up short in crucial situations, eventually leading to the loss.

Haynes King Looked… Better?

After it was announced King would be forced to be the starter in this game, there were some who thought it could be an ugly result. After some poor performances early in the season, leading to him getting benched, there was not much to be optimistic for. But, credit to King, he handled the offense fairly well tonight, throwing for 253 yards and two touchdowns. He did have some rocky moments throughout the game, including a costly interception, but he played a cleaner game than expected.

Finally Forcing Turnovers

For the first time this season, the Texas A&M defense produced turnovers at a high rate. The Aggies defense took advantage of the inexperience of quarterback Jalen Milroe, forcing two fumbles and one interception in the game. It was because of these turnovers that the Aggies offense were consistently in strong field position, directly leading to two touchdowns and a field goal.

Evan Stewart Showed Up

Five-star freshman Evan Stewart has been fairly consistent to the start of his career but had not yet taken over games. Today was that day with some big time catches in big time moments. He did find the endzone but he gave the offense several chances to extend drives and get closer to the endzone. He had eight receptions for 106 yards. It is clear that Stewart is going to be a big time playmaker for the Aggies the rest of this season and moving forward in his career.

Aggies Need A True OC

If there was one real reason the Aggies did not win this game, it was the play calling. It is apparent that Jimbo Fisher will need to make a change this offseason and find someone who is an elite play caller. The biggest reason might be the final play of the game, in which the Aggies needed a touchdown. The play was a designed throw to Evan Stewart in the front corner of the endzone, but the timing and execution of the play were not favorable for even having a chance at success. There were several other moments throughout the game that Fisher had some questionable calls in crucial situations.

Reason To Have Optimism

While a loss was not what the Aggies wanted, they certainly played much better than almost everyone expected them to. This defense is built for the future and the young playmakers on offense have very bright futures. I really think the Aggies are only missing a true play caller and a quarterback who can be “The Guy”, which might be the five-star freshman currently in the backup role, Conner Weigman. There are plenty of issues the Aggies need to address, both immediately and long term, but it is almost undeniable, the Aggies can compete on any given Saturday .