Everything Texas A&M, USC coaches and players said before Friday’s Las Vegas Bowl

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Texas A&M (8-4) will look to end the 2024 season on a high note amid losing three out of the final four games of coach Mike Elko’s inaugural campaign while having the chance to win nine games for the first time since the memorable 2020 season. Facing USC (6-6) in the Las Vegas Bowl, the Trojans have been ravaged by the transfer portal, coming into Friday’s matchup with a depleted roster.

However, the Aggies have also lost 19 players to the portal, though only three defensive starters, Nic Scourton, Shemar Stewart, and Shemar Turner, are the only key members of the roster missing the game after declaring for the NFL Draft.

Starting quarterback Marcel Reed is back in the limelight on the offensive front. The anticipated 2025 starter continues to refine his skills as a pocket passer and has the opportunity to enhance his performance against a vulnerable USC secondary.

However, the most captivating clash lies in the contest between Texas A&M’s pass rush and the Trojan offensive line, particularly spotlighting two up-and-coming Aggie edge rushers Cashius Howell and Rylan Kennedy.

On Thursday, during the pre-Las Vegas Bowl press conference, Mike Elko and USC coach Lincoln Riley spoke to the media alongside several players from both teams, including QB Marcel Reed. Here’s what every coach and player had to say on Thursday.

Elko on the feel around the team this week

Aug 31, 2024; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies head coach Mike Elko arrives prior to the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sp

“It’s kind of the start to the new season.”

Texas A&M QB Marcel Reed on what he want’s to accomplish on Friday

Sep 14, 2024; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Texas A&M Aggies quarterback Marcel Reed (10) celebrates with Texas A&M Aggies offensive coordinator Collin Klein after…

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Author : Aggies Wire

Publish date : 2024-12-26 23:20:00

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