The 2025 Texas A&M football team is on the field for spring ball, and there is a lot of excitement leading into year two under head coach Mike Elko.
The Texas A&M Aggies experienced a challenging end to the 2024 football season, facing injuries and defensive struggles that led to a three-game losing streak. Despite this setback, their 8-2 start showcased the team's potential when fully healthy and unified under Coach Mike Elko's leadership.
Coach Mike Elko expressed clear frustration over the Texas A&M Aggies' struggles at the end of the 2024 football season, citing issues with the defense and offense. The defense faced challenges in pass coverage, while injuries significantly impacted the offense's ability to execute in short-yardage situations. These setbacks contributed to a disappointing finish after a strong 8-2 start.
To address these concerns, defensive coordinator Jay Bateman and offensive coordinator Collin Klein are tasked with implementing improvements and preparing the team for a competitive season. During the spring press conference, both coordinators highlighted key areas for growth as they worked to ensure the Aggies maintained consistency and performed at a high level throughout the fall.
Jay Bateman addresses Elko's comments at the end of the 2024 season
"I took it as everybody needed to be better. Coaches included. The linebackers were a part of that also. When we got here, we were patching it together a little bit. It was a lot of moving parts. ... I feel really good about our depth right now."
The defensive back room is deeper and more experienced
"There is more depth. There are more guys that can play."
Bateman on what new staff member Lyle Hemphill adds to the team
"Lyle is really knowledgable in Mike's system and how Mike wants to do things. ... It's one more voice in the room. It has been a big help."
The defense will look a little different this season
"We've definitely made some pretty serious schematic adjustments. ... The conference, like the NFL, changes all of the time. I feel really, really good about where we are right now schematically."
"We've worked at it, and I feel like we've come up with a good plan moving forward."
Bateman talks about some of the big run plays given up and how to get better
"Any time you have an explosive run, you can break it down to a mistake or a fundamental error. ... When you play linebacker, your job is to make things right. You're the second level of the defense for a reason."
Mike Elko has a more watchful eye on the defense this spring
"He is more well-aware of what we're doing and has a little bit more of a say in what we're doing. It has been great."
