Saturday Spotlight
(11) Texas A&M Aggies at (15) Ole Miss Rebels
A&M: I watched a big portion of their game last weekend against the Auburn Tigers. That was my type of football game. With myself having a defensive background, anytime I see a defensive struggle, I’m here for it. That’s exactly what happened in the first half in College Station. Once the second half came around, they were able to kick it up and put things into gear. I saw them pull away and never looked back. I’ve had the chance to watch and preview a few of the Aggies games this year and there’s one thing that’s stood out. The offensive line is much improved now than it was earlier in the year. How about Zach Calzada? He’s come in and replaced Haynes King nicely. Jimbo Fisher is an offensive-minded guy and can work with anyone given to him. As wild as this might sound, Jimbo and his team still have a chance to win the SEC West. They did defeat Alabama back in October and own that head-to-head tiebreaker over the Crimson Tide. The final week of the season will be interesting because let’s paint the scenario of Alabama losing their final game of the year to Auburn (something that could be previewed on the site in a few weeks, stay tuned) and Texas A&M wins out. They’d win the SEC West and go to the SEC Title Game! Think about it! Tonight, they travel to Oxford for a showdown.
Ole Miss: They are one of the more electrifying offenses in our game. Over the years, I’ve referred to many offenses as “basketball teams on the gridiron”. I said it about the Saints during the Drew Brees days, that LSU team with Joe Burrow and company and I can add this offense to that same category. They can spread everyone out and make it a nightmare to defend them. When I saw I was previewing a game featuring the Ole Miss Rebels, one thing immediately stood out. I would finally get the chance to watch the star quarterback, Matt Corral play! It’s one thing to watch tape on guys, but to see them in-game action is completely different. From what I’ve seen, he’s as complete as they come. Matt has the accuracy to complete every pass along with the touch. Next, he’s a threat to extend plays with his feet. Third, he’s a tough kid. He doesn’t mind a little contact. He initiates it if I’m being honest here. Matt is the best quarterback in college football and I can’t wait to see what he does next in the NFL. He’s ready for the next level. Even with injuries hurting them, they don’t lack any weapons. Others have stepped up and filled in. Here’s how electric this offense is. They average 37 points per game. Scoring isn’t an issue for them whatsoever. Tonight, they will be welcoming a hungry Aggies team to town.
A&M X-Factor: Isaiah Spiller– What’s the best formula against a prolific offense? Ball control. Grinding the game out. Slowing the game down. The Aggies have been one of the best at running the ball this year with their two-headed monster at running back. Isaiah is a gritty runner that makes people miss in space. He will be counted on to run the ball and keep Corral and that speedy Rebels offense on the sideline.
Ole Miss X-Factor: Jamond Gordon– He’s a versatile defensive lineman that can play on the edge or inside on the interior of the defensive line. Jamond is 6’2, 290 pounds with pure quickness for a man of his size. He uses his strength and power to rip through blockers to get to the ball carrier. Jamond can also get to the quarterback. His hands will be full with this Aggies’ offensive attack.
Final Analysis: This is by far an interesting battle. There are contrasting styles between these two. One loves the big play. They are a fast-paced offense with the ability to put points up on the scoreboard in the snap of a finer. The other likes to slow the game down and control the clock which is still an important factor in football. The battle that will determine this game is the Aggies defensive front against the Ole Miss offensive line. Can the Rebels hold up and keep Matt Corral protected? Texas A&M has been strong on defense in the SEC this year allowing 19 points per game. They are also very strong against the run and pass so this will be an intriguing chess match between Lane Kiffin and A&M defensive coordinator, Mike Elko. Which style of football comes out on top?
Prediction: A&M 30, Ole Miss 26
