Texas A&M’s Screen Game Could Be the X-Factor Against Miami in CFP Showdown
Texas A&M and Miami are set to square off in one of the most compelling matchups of the early College Football Playoff slate, with a ticket to face Ohio State in the quarterfinals on the line. It’s not exactly a breather-nobody’s calling the Buckeyes a reward-but it’s the next step on the road to a national title, and both teams know what’s at stake.
On paper, the Aggies and Hurricanes mirror each other in several ways: strong defenses, athletic quarterbacks, and explosive playmakers on the perimeter. But there’s one area where Texas A&M might quietly hold a key advantage-and it’s not getting nearly enough attention: the screen game.
Why the Screen Game Matters
Quarterback Reed has quietly become one of the most efficient screen-pass operators in the country. He’s averaging 8.6 yards per attempt on screens, ranking third nationally behind only Maddux Madsen and Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza. That’s elite company, and it speaks volumes about how well A&M has executed this part of their offense.
A big reason for that success? The dynamic duo of Concepcion and Craver on the outside.
Both receivers bring speed, vision, and yards-after-catch ability that make screens more than just safe passes-they’re explosive weapons. Add in an offensive line that’s been excellent at getting out in space and sealing blocks, and you’ve got a screen game that functions like an extension of the run game, but with big-play potential.
This isn’t just a wrinkle in the playbook-it’s a core part of what makes the Aggies’ offense tick. When they get it going, it opens up everything else.
Miami’s Response: A Mixed Bag
To their credit, Miami has been solid defending screens this season. They’ve allowed just 5 yards per attempt on those plays overall, and that number has dipped to 4.7 since ACC play began. That’s the kind of efficiency you want from a disciplined defense.
But there’s a catch: in both of Miami’s losses this year, they gave up over 6 yards per attempt on screens. That’s not a coincidence. When teams have been able to stretch Miami horizontally and force them to defend the full width of the field, it’s created cracks in their armor.
That’s where Texas A&M can really test them-especially early. If the Aggies can force Miami to account for the screen game, it could lighten the box and create room for a potential return from Le’Veon Moss to make an impact in the run game.
And if Miami adjusts by going man-to-man? That opens the door for Reed to take shots downfield.
Reed’s Growth Will Be Tested
That’s the big question: can Reed consistently hit those deeper throws? He’s been up and down in that department this season, but there’s no denying he’s made strides in recent weeks. His timing, confidence, and chemistry with his receivers have all improved, and the Aggies have done a good job of putting him in positions to succeed.
This chess match-using screens to stretch Miami horizontally, forcing defensive adjustments, and then capitalizing vertically-has been a defining feature of A&M’s offense. It’s also how they’ve been able to neutralize more “talented” secondaries on paper, like LSU’s, by keeping defenses off balance and in conflict.
What to Watch on Saturday
Don’t be surprised if Texas A&M comes out firing with a heavy dose of screens-especially to Craver, who’s back healthy and could be a difference-maker. The Aggies know they need to start fast, and the screen game is one of their best tools to do it.
If they can get Miami on their heels early, it could set the tone for the entire game. And in a win-or-go-home playoff setting, every edge matters. Keep an eye on how Miami defends the boundary in the first few drives-that might tell us everything we need to know about how this one’s going to unfold.