
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Brandon Wade/AP/Shutterstock (13417994ag) Texas A&M running back Devon Achane (6) carries the ball during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas, in Arlington, Texas. A&M won 23-21 Arkansas Texas A M Football, Arlington, United States – 24 Sep 2022
Can Jimbo stop the bleeding? Game preview: Texas A&M vs. No. 15 Ole Miss
THE MATCHUP
Texas A&M (3-4) vs. Ole Miss (7-1)
Game time: 6:30 p.m. CT
TV/radio: SEC Network/SiriusXM 191
What’s at stake: DEFCON 1 in Aggieland
When the Aggies have the ball:
Right or wrong, head coaches of college football programs are often categorized into one of two groups- offensive or defensive-minded. Jimbo Fisher falls into the category of an “offensive-minded” head coach. This is no secret. Aggie fans everywhere are in a panic, and for multiple reasons. However, the primary reason for such a panic is over Aggie head coach Jimbo Fisher!
Texas A&M has scored more than 30 points one time this season. Once. Against who? Sam Houston State. The Aggie offense (and arguably the program as a whole in its current state) has been a complete dumpster fire in 2022, and the smoke is rising.
The Aggies return to Kyle Field for the first time in four weeks. Viewers have no reason to expect a revamped Texas A&M offense against Lane Kiffin’s Rebels, regardless of who might be playing quarterback for Texas A&M.
When the Rebels have the ball:
The Aggie defense has done its damndest to keep Texas A&M competitive in each game this year and ultimately has been unsuccessful.
Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart could very well be the x-factor on Saturday in College Station. The USC transfer is a true dual threat under center, at times ready to attack on the ground as a first option.
Key Aggies to watch:
RB Devon Achane
Achane remains to this point, the lone bright spot for the A&M offense. The junior running back has made the most of his limited touches amid a disappointing season for Texas A&M. Achane has rushed for 627 yards on the season and will need to be a vital element of the A&M offense if the Aggies want to steal a win and cling to their chances of remaining bowl eligible.
S Demani Richardson
Ole Miss thrives on moving the ball via the ground attack. Richardson will need to play a vital role in the efforts to stop the run. However- the A&M secondary cannot underestimate the ability of Ole Miss QB Dart to find the open man with the long ball. Ultimately- the 12th Man should be hoping to see a disciplined secondary.
The bottom line:
The Aggies will be looking to end their three-game losing streak as they take on the Ole Miss Rebels, holding on to hope that they can beat a top-15 opponent for the third time this season (Miami, Arkansas).
Don’t bet on it.
Ole Miss comes into College Station on Saturday fresh off of their first loss this football season. There will be there for blood- and that blood will show shades of maroon and white.