Texas A&M’s passing game should have a clear edge when it lines up against Missouri State’s defense, even if the Aggies’ attack could look a little different in 2026.
The biggest pieces are still in place for Texas A&M. Marcel Reed is back at quarterback, and slot Mario Craver returns as well.
But the way the Aggies create chunk plays may shift. The source points to more vertical shots instead of so much damage after the catch, and the biggest question hanging over that change is Reed’s protection.
On the other side, Missouri State defensive coordinator Jack Curtis brings a long coaching résumé to the job. He began coaching in 1987 and most recently worked at Auburn as a defensive analyst under former A&M assistant DJ Durkin. Curtis is expected to use a 4-2-5, the same basic look plenty of teams are leaning on now, and that should come with man coverage and an aggressive approach similar to what Auburn played.
The problem for the Bears is that the pass rush didn’t show much bite a year ago, and the outlook doesn’t sound much better now. Missouri State does have upperclassmen on the line, but there isn’t much proven production anywhere up front from 2025.
Tim Brantley is listed as an undersized three-tech at 275 pounds and had only 13 pressures last season. Edge rusher Caden Wiest brings effort and motor, but at 265 pounds he is not expected to consistently win off the edge.
That sets up a tough night for Missouri State if Texas A&M can hold up long enough for Reed to work downfield.
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