Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko is placing significant emphasis on the offensive line as a cornerstone for the Aggies’ aspirations in the 2025 College Football Playoff. Following a 2024 season that began with promise but ended in disappointment, Elko is determined to fortify the team’s foundation, starting with the trenches.
“We’ve asked our offensive line to be the identity of our program,” Elko stated during a press conference. “I think that’s how you want your program to be.”
The Aggies return a wealth of experience on the offensive line, with all five starters from the previous season back in action. This includes center Mark Nabou Jr., tackles Trey Zuhn III and Reuben Fatheree II, and guards Chase Bisontis and Ar’maj Reed-Adams. The depth chart is further bolstered by Kolinu’u Faaiu, who gained valuable playing time due to injuries last season.
Elko’s recruitment of offensive line coach Adam Cushing has been instrumental in this transformation. Cushing, known for his development-focused approach during his tenure at Duke and Northwestern, has instilled a culture of accountability and physicality. Under his guidance, the offensive line has shown marked improvement in cohesion and performance.
The emphasis on the offensive line is not just about protection but also about setting the tone for the entire team. Elko believes that a dominant offensive line can inspire confidence and resilience across all units. “Our ability to get really talented and really good on the offensive line, as quick as we possibly can, will play a huge role in our ability to be successful on offense,” Elko explained.
With a veteran offensive line leading the charge, Texas A&M aims to leverage this strength to propel the team into playoff contention. The combination of experience, coaching, and a renewed focus on the fundamentals positions the Aggies as a formidable force in the upcoming season.
