What we learned from the Kentucky game as the Longhorns eye a matchup with Texas A&M

The Kentucky game is behind us, and now it’s late November hate week. Texas faced some challenges—particularly in the third quarter—but they got the job done when it mattered most. Meanwhile, the Aggies fell short yet again, losing in triple overtime, a familiar theme for their season.

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Does the Kentucky game carry over into this week? Yes and no. It showed that Texas can rely on its defense and physical run game to close out tough matchups, but at this point, teams are defined by their identity. Texas has proven to be an elite defensive team with an offense still working to find consistency. Against Kentucky, the Longhorns leaned on their physicality late to wear them down, and they’ll need a similar approach in College Station. Cleaning up mistakes and keeping Quinn Ewers healthy and protected are critical. If Texas can manage those areas, they’ll be in a strong position to keep control of this rivalry.

The 2011 Game: A Quick Reminder

The last time Texas and A&M faced off was in 2011, and it ended with one of the most iconic moments in the rivalry. Justin Tucker’s 40-yard field goal as time expired gave Texas a 27-25 win in College Station. It was a fitting farewell before the Aggies left for the SEC, a clear reminder of who owns the Lone Star State.

Now, more than a decade later, the rivalry is back, and Texas has a chance to remind A&M that nothing has changed. This isn’t just another game; it’s an opportunity to reestablish dominance in one of college football’s most heated matchups.

The Mental Edge

Texas holds a clear mental edge heading into this game. This is a veteran-led team with players like Jahdae Barron, Andrew Mukuba, and Isaiah Bond, who have risen to the occasion all season. They’ve been tested in hostile environments and know how to perform when it matters most.

A&M, on the other hand, has consistently faltered in big moments. Whenever the Aggies have had a chance to take control of their season, they’ve fallen short. Turnovers, mistakes, and missed opportunities have defined their year. Texas needs to exploit those weaknesses by playing physical, executing with precision, and forcing A&M into the errors that have plagued them all season.

Things to Work On This Week

1. Quinn Ewers and the Offensive Line

Ewers needs to stay calm under pressure, step into the pocket, and avoid taking unnecessary sacks. If healthy, his mobility could be a factor in key situations. A&M’s defensive front will bring pressure, so the offensive line must communicate effectively and prepare for stunts, blitzes, and disguised looks. This week’s practice should emphasize blitz recognition and sharpening communication to counter A&M’s aggressive schemes.

2. Special Teams and Situational Awareness

Special teams need to be sharp. Texas must clean up mistakes, field punts cleanly, avoid penalties, and stay focused in high-pressure situations. Practice should include situational drills like kick coverage, angle pursuit, and avoiding over-pursuit. A&M has a strong special teams unit, and Texas can’t afford to be outplayed in this phase.

3. Ball Security Across the Board

Ball security is non-negotiable. Every player—not just the running backs—must prioritize protecting the ball, especially in a hostile environment where turnovers could swing momentum. Practice should include “fall camp” style ball security drills, with staff constantly trying to knock the ball loose to simulate game pressure.

4. Simulating College Station’s Atmosphere

Kyle Field will be loud and chaotic—like being on the Oklahoma side of the Cotton Bowl, but even more intense. Over 100,000 Aggie fans will be screaming to disrupt Texas, and the Longhorns must be prepared for the noise.

To simulate this, practice should include loudspeakers blasting crowd noise and music. Offensive drills should focus on silent counts, pre-snap communication, and maintaining discipline. Avoiding penalties and miscommunication will be critical to keeping the Aggie crowd out of the game.

5. Leaning on the Run Game

The Aggies have struggled to stop the run, and Texas has the personnel to exploit that weakness. Tre Wisner, Jaydon Blue, and Jerrick Gibson should be used to wear down A&M’s defense, complemented by play-action passes to keep their aggressive front honest. Establishing the run game early will set the tone and create opportunities for big plays downfield.

Time to Put Little Brother Back in Their Place

This game is about more than just this season—it’s about reclaiming control of the rivalry. The Aggies have spent over a decade boasting about their move to the SEC, but they’ve forgotten how things ended the last time they played Texas.

Winning this game would mean more than bragging rights—it would also secure Texas’ spot in the SEC Championship in their first year, making the victory sting even more for the Aggies.

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Saturday can’t come fast enough. It’s time to put little brother back in their place and remind them who runs this state. Let’s go!