As Texas A&M gears up for its first-round College Football Playoff showdown against Miami, head coach Mike Elko took to the podium Monday with a clear-eyed focus on what’s ahead-and a few insights into how the Aggies are preparing for their biggest game of the season.
Despite a 27-17 loss to Texas that ended their hopes of a perfect regular season, the Aggies still secured a playoff berth and will host the Hurricanes at Kyle Field. And if Elko’s tone is any indication, the team isn’t dwelling on what went wrong in Austin-they’re locked in on what needs to go right in the postseason.
A New Voice, A Familiar Vision
One of the biggest takeaways from Elko’s press conference was the decision to promote Holmon Wiggins from within, rather than bringing in an outside hire for the offensive coordinator role. Elko said he spoke with five different candidates, but ultimately felt Wiggins was the right fit to elevate from within the program.
That continuity matters, especially with Collin Klein set to continue calling plays throughout the playoff run. Klein’s voice in the headset has been a steadying force all season, and keeping that rhythm intact could prove crucial as the Aggies face a fast, physical Miami defense.
On the other side of the ball, Lyle Hemphill will take over as defensive coordinator. While his name hasn’t been front and center this season, Elko made it clear Hemphill’s fingerprints have been all over the Aggies’ defensive success. Now, he gets the official nod in a high-stakes moment.
Tempo, Timing, and the Challenge of the Layoff
With some time off between the regular season finale and the playoff opener, Elko acknowledged the challenge of regaining game speed and rhythm. The team is in good health overall-always a win at this point in the year-but getting back to peak tempo after a break is easier said than done.
“We want to get into the playoffs fresh and ready to go,” Elko said, noting that balancing rest and readiness is one of the trickiest parts of postseason prep.
No Need for Bulletin Board Material
When asked about offensive lineman Trey Zuhn’s recent comments regarding Miami’s defensive front, Elko downplayed any potential for added motivation on the Hurricanes’ side. “I don’t think bulletin board material is necessary for the playoffs,” he said. And he’s right-at this level, with a national title on the line, motivation doesn’t need to be manufactured.
That said, Miami’s defensive line will be a real test. The Hurricanes bring speed and power up front, and Elko knows his offense will need to be sharp in protection and decisive in execution.
Miami’s Offense: Win Early, Win Often
One area Elko zeroed in on was Miami’s success on third down. But instead of focusing solely on those money downs, he emphasized the importance of winning on first and second down to set the tone.
It’s a classic football truth: if you can force third-and-long, your odds of getting off the field go way up. And against a Miami team that thrives on staying ahead of the sticks, that early-down discipline will be key.
Disrupting Beck, Disguising Coverages
Elko also spoke about the challenge of facing Miami quarterback Tyler Beck, who’s been efficient in the quick passing game all season. The goal?
Make him uncomfortable. That means disguising coverages, forcing hesitation, and creating just enough disruption to throw off his timing.
“You have to try to create ways to impact Beck in the quick passing game,” Elko said. “Make him hold on to the ball longer.” That’s where Hemphill’s game plan will come into play-finding creative ways to slow down a rhythm-based attack without giving up big plays over the top.
The Freshman Phenom
It’s not often a true freshman makes this kind of impact, but Malachi Toney has been a revelation for the Aggies this year. Elko highlighted Toney’s explosiveness and route running, saying it’s hard to believe he’s only in his first season.
“He’s just been so good,” Elko said. “His ability to separate, to make plays after the catch-it jumps off the tape.” In a game where matchups will be tight and every inch matters, Toney could be a difference-maker.
A Thank You to the 12th Man
Before wrapping up, Elko made sure to send a message to the fans who have packed Kyle Field all season long.
“This is a thank you to all of them for the support all year,” he said.
The Aggies will need that energy again when Miami comes to town. The stakes are higher, the lights are brighter, and the path to a national championship goes through College Station. Elko’s crew may have stumbled once, but they’re standing tall heading into the postseason-with a clear plan, a healthy roster, and a home crowd ready to roar.