Back
Texas A&M is likely past the point of no return this season, as third-year coach Mike Elko's talented but underperforming roster now sits at 4-4 and 1-4 in SEC play after falling to Alabama in Tuscaloosa 31-20, despite leading 20-17 heading into the fourth quarter.
Entering the bye week, plenty of questions about the program's future start with the coaching staff, as Mike Elko's offseason decision to elevate Holmon Wiggins and Lyle Hemphil as the team's OC and DC was risky and hasn't paid off.
Quarterbacks coach Joey Lynch has failed to develop and help starting quarterback Marcel Reed fix his issues that led to last season's back-to-back losses to Texas and Miami in the first round of the CFP. If anything, Lynch should be the first coach Mike Elko dismisses because of Reed's regression.
It was reported Sunday afternoon that Mike Elko will not speak to the media during this week's bye, a first, and while I don't expect him to make any drastic staff changes until the season ends, the timing is interesting.
Right now, it's hard to say what changes Elko should make to help the Aggies finish the season on a high note, outside of sophomore QB Brady Hart taking over for the rest of the year.
Around the rest of the SEC, Texas' win over Ole Miss saved the Longhorns' season, but losing left tackle Trevor Goosby for the season and wide receiver Cam Coleman, who could miss extended time, will impact the team's offense. For those who care, Texas A&M dropped seven spots to No. 56 in the latest USA TODAY Re-Rank.
Among SEC teams, Texas A&M is the 13th lowest-ranked program in the conference.