Texas A&M’s latest victory looked nothing like their high-scoring shootout against Notre Dame. Instead of an offensive showcase, the Aggies leaned on a dominant defense to grind out a 16-10 win over Auburn, holding the Tigers to just 177 total yards. With that statement, Mike Elko‘s A&M moved to 4-0 and proved they can win in more ways than one. Up next is Mississippi State under the lights at Kyle Field, where the Aggies will host their 4th-ever “Black Out” game. But the matchup adds another layer of history, with the series deadlocked at 9 wins apiece. Although in SEC play, A&M holds the slightest of margins, 7-6, but Saturday’s clash could tilt the balance once again. But in order for the Aggies to dominate again, they need players available to produce on the field.

Texas A&M’s latest injury update brought mostly good news on Thursday. The Aggies avoided any official “outs” or “doubtfuls,” but a handful of players remain in question. One name that stands out is veteran LB Scooby Williams. After hurting his ankle against Notre Dame, he sat out the Auburn game, though signs of a quicker comeback have surfaced. Even HC Mike Elko called him “day-to-day” as preparations continue this week. Williams’ setback actually came right after his interception highlight. But now, as the Aggies set the stage against M-State, his recovery remains a storyline that fans will be watching closely.

Williams is hovering on the injury radar. On3’s Pete Nakos reported on September 3 that he’s questionable and could be a game-time decision. This season, Williams made headlines with his interception against Notre Dame, the team’s only pick this season, and has racked up 12 tackles so far. Even in his absence against Auburn, the Aggies’ defense didn’t skip a beat. Taurean York and Dayon Hayes rose to the occasion, making crucial stops when it mattered most. But against M-State, Williams’ comeback could be a difference-maker. Why?

Williams made his mark last year against M-State. He racked up 6 tackles, including two for losses, in the Aggies’ 34-24 win in Starkville. And big plays like that show why his presence on the field matters. If he’s back this week, he could tip the scales again. But it wasn’t just Williams making plays. RB Le’Veon Moss powered the Aggies’ offense with two TDs. Fast forward to this season, and coach Mike Elko is already pointing to a major challenge from Mississippi State.

Mike Elko is worried about the opponent’s offense

Texas A&M looks to keep its perfect start alive in Week 6 against M-State. The Bulldogs come in at 4-1, showing they’re no pushover. Although Tennessee handed them a tough 41-34 OT loss, this team has shown it can bounce back. And more importantly, that offense is a key reason for their success.

They are physical and run the ball with purpose. Keeping that potential in mind, HC Elko said, “Their spread offense is something I’ve compared a lot this week to the modern version of the triple option.” Then he added, “They spread you sideline to sideline… It’s a challenge. They force you to cover the whole field, vertically and horizontally.”

And now, Elko wants to build on that momentum. Pulling out a win in a defensive slugfest shows just how versatile this Aggies team can be. With tough matchups against top defenses like LSU and Texas looming, the ability to grind out close games will be crucial. Let’s see if Mike Elko’s squad can keep winning these tight contests.