The anticipation is building as Texas A&M football gears up for its season opener against Missouri State at Kyle Field, marking the beginning of the 2026 campaign. Under the leadership of head coach Mike Elko, now in his third year, the Aggies are eager to identify areas of strength and improvement as they strive for success this season.
The Aggies will take on the Missouri State Bears, who recently completed their inaugural season at the FBS level in 2025, finishing with a record of 7-6 and competing in the Xbox Bowl against Arkansas State. The Bears are under new management with Casey Woods, the former offensive coordinator at SMU, stepping in as head coach. Woods faces the challenge of leading a restructured team, with UTEP transfer Skyler Locklear named the starting quarterback, looking to continue the legacy left by Jacob Clark.
As the teams prepare for kickoff, here are five crucial elements to keep an eye on during the Texas A&M versus Missouri State matchup:
1. The Performance of Texas A&M's Offensive Line
Texas A&M's offensive line has undergone significant changes since the end of the 2025 season, losing key players. The only returning starter is center Mark Nabou Jr., who has been recognized as a preseason All-SEC selection. To bolster the line, Elko has brought in three transfers with SEC experience: Wilkin Formby from Alabama, Trovon Baugh from South Carolina, and Tyree Adams from LSU, along with Coen Echols, also from LSU. This game will provide the first opportunity to assess how well the new line can protect quarterback Marcel Reed and support the running game.
2. Marcel Reed's Development
Marcel Reed enters the season as the only returning starting quarterback in the SEC who ranked among the top three in multiple statistical categories, including passing yards and total touchdowns. Despite his impressive performance that helped Texas A&M reach its first College Football Playoff, Reed has been labeled inconsistent. Reports from fall camp suggest that Reed has made significant strides, showcasing his abilities as a leader and playmaker. Although he may not play the entire game, it is crucial for him to demonstrate his growth against Missouri State.
3. Evolving Defensive Line
The Aggies' defensive line will also be a focal point, especially with the departure of standout players like Cashius Howell and Tyler Onyedim. However, Elko has retained some promising returners and added a highly regarded transfer edge rusher, Anto Saka, who has drawn attention for his physical prowess during fall camp. With Missouri State's offensive line featuring three new starters and having struggled with sacks last season, Texas A&M's defensive line has the potential to dominate this matchup.
4. Holmon Wiggins' Transition as Playcaller
Holmon Wiggins, who previously served as the co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach, is stepping into the role of primary playcaller for Texas A&M. Last season, the Aggies' offense ranked 23rd nationally in total offense under Collin Klein. While returning players have indicated that the overall offensive scheme will remain similar, it will be interesting to see how Wiggins' coaching style influences game strategy against a Missouri State defense that struggled last year.
5. Rueben Owens II's Role in the Offense
Running back Rueben Owens II is expected to be a key player for Texas A&M this season. After a productive 2025 campaign, where he accumulated over 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns, Owens will look to establish himself as the primary starter. The matchup against Missouri State, which allowed an average of 153.31 rushing yards per game last season, presents a favorable opportunity for Owens to set the tone for the year ahead.
As the Aggies prepare for this season opener against Missouri State, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these critical factors unfold on the field. The outcome of this game could set the stage for Texas A&M's ambitions in the 2026 season.
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