Greg McElroy picks Notre Dame over Texas A&M

A loaded Week 1 slate will conclude with what might be the game on the weekend. Texas A&M is playing host to Notre Dame in what should be an incredible atmosphere from College Station. Kyle Field should be as loud as it’s ever been, with Aggie fans wanting to kick the Mike Elko era off the right way.

Predictions for the game have begun to roll in, with ESPN’s Greg McElroy being the latest. He is going with Notre Dame on Saturday, citing a few issues he sees with Texas A&M on the offensive line. Pair that with what Riley Leonard might be able to do with his legs, a slight edge is going to the Fighting Irish from McElroy.

CLICK HERE to go to PrizePicks and use code ON3 to receive a guaranteed $50 once you play $5 in lineups!

“I’m taking the Irish in this game,” McElroy said. “If you look at A&M, if I felt better about Texas A&M’s receivers and if I felt better about Texas A&M’s offensive line, I think it would be a much more challenging choice. But I believe, with what they’re going to see against a mobile quarterback in Riley Leonard — I think Notre Dame wins the game in what should be a low-scoring brawl.”

Watch College Football Games Live -Try for Free Fubo! Click HERE NOW

Low-scoring brawl means defenses are going to shine. Both programs pride themselves on their units, especially with who the head coaches are. Elko has a defensive background after having success at Texas A&M as the defensive coordinator. Marcus Freeman took over the head coach role at Notre Dame after being the DC for a year.

McElroy just has a little more trust in Notre Dame’s defense, seeing better talent at all three levels. Texas A&M may disagree, mainly on the defensive line, where the Aggies hope to have one of the SEC’s top units.

“I like Notre Dame’s defense a little more,” McElroy said. “At all three levels. But I do think A&M’s defensive line is capable of taking over the game. However, still rolling with the Irish.”

Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday night, with ABC having the broadcast. ESPN College GameDay will also be in town, where a few more predictions will take place. McElroy got his out of the way early, liking what Notre Dame can present against Texas A&M.