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Texas A&M Aggies football, LSU Tigers football, Southeastern Conference, Linebacker, Mike Elko, Defense

Texas A&M Football: Mike Elko's Defense Continues to Impress

Aggies' Defense Dominates in SEC Opener

The Texas A&M Aggies football team opened their Southeastern Conference (SEC) schedule with a bang, shutting out the Mississippi State Bulldogs 42-0 at Kyle Field last Saturday. The Aggies' defense, led by new defensive coordinator Mike Elko, was a major factor in the victory, holding the Bulldogs to just 138 total yards and forcing three turnovers.

Elko's Defensive Scheme Shines

Elko, who was hired away from Notre Dame in the offseason, has implemented a complex and aggressive defensive scheme that has quickly become a nightmare for opposing offenses. The Aggies' defense is predicated on speed and athleticism, with a focus on creating turnovers and getting after the quarterback.

Against Mississippi State, the Aggies' defense was all over the field from the start. They recorded five sacks, forced two fumbles, and intercepted a pass. The Aggies also held the Bulldogs to just 2.5 yards per carry and forced them to punt six times.

Linebacker Play Key in Aggies' Success

One of the key factors in the Aggies' defensive success has been the play of their linebackers. The Aggies have three talented linebackers who are all capable of making plays all over the field. Leading the way is senior Anthony Hill, who had 10 tackles, three sacks, and a forced fumble against Mississippi State.

Sophomore Tyree Johnson and junior Edgerrin Cooper have also been impressive. Johnson had nine tackles and a sack against the Bulldogs, while Cooper had seven tackles and an interception.

Outlook for the Rest of the Season

The Aggies' defense has been one of the most impressive units in the country through two games. They have allowed just 269 total yards and forced seven turnovers. If they can continue to play at this level, they will be a major force in the SEC this season.

The Aggies will face their toughest test of the season this Saturday when they travel to Tuscaloosa to take on the No. 1 Alabama Crimson Tide. The Tide have one of the most explosive offenses in the country, so the Aggies' defense will need to be at their best.

If the Aggies can pull off an upset against Alabama, it will send a message that they are a legitimate contender in the SEC this season. However, even if they lose, the Aggies have shown that they have a defense that can compete with anyone in the country.