POSTGAME THOUGHTS: Aggies Anemic Offense Dooms Efforts Against Tennessee

Well, that happened.

Texas A&M’s defeat to the Tennessee Volunteers marked a fourth straight SEC loss of the season. After taking a 7-6 lead into the half, the Aggies surrendered 16 unanswered points to lose 22-7.

Texas A&M’s defense turned in a decent performance. The Aggies surrendered almost 200 yards on the ground to the Volunteers, but at 3.5 yards per carry, I don’t really fault the unit. The Aggie defense allowed only one touchdown but got absolutely zero help from the offense, as Marcel Reed and company had just 157 yards prior to the final drive of the game.

Reed was 9/22 for 71 yards and one interception. He simply isn’t able to use his arm as a positive asset for this team. Reed’s legs are supposed to be a big part of his game. Reed rushed zero times. I understand that Tennessee spied Reed, but I still can’t fathom having zero designed runs.

The rushing attack wasn’t great, but Texas A&M’s lone scoring drive at least showed flashes from Rueben Owens and KJ Edwards. The Aggies averaged 4.5 yards on the ground on 19 carries. The rushing attack will be the focus of the offense moving forward, but with this offense being basically one-dimensional, teams will be able to key on the Aggies without issue.

I can’t envision a world where Marcel Reed is the quarterback for Texas A&M in 2027. I think at this stage of the season, you absolutely have to let Brady Hart have the reins. Especially if Marcel Reed isn’t going to use his legs. Now, Hart’s drive in Saturday’s game ended in a horrendous interception, and I frankly don’t believe he will be the starting QB in ‘27 either. But what do you have to lose? Give him a full game to try and prove something and hope for the best. Maybe he’ll at least hit the short throws that Reed now regularly struggles with.

It gives me no joy to call for jobs, but changes simply have to be made across the board on this offense. I don’t know that I’ve ever seen an effort as disheartening as what this offense turned in today. The offense didn’t notch a first down in the second half until deep into the fourth quarter. I don’t care how good Tennessee’s defense is. That was inexcusable.

I’ll close with some positive notes because I hate being this negative:

Chance Collins is absolutely electric as a blitzer. Great performance from him today.

Tyler White is a weapon as a punter.

Daymion Sanford had a solid day, and I enjoy seeing him back out there.

The Aggies head to Norman next week. Mercifully, only two games remain in the season.

Good night.