Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko, along with offensive coordinator Collin Klein and defensive coordinator Jay Bateman, are poised to play pivotal roles in the Aggies’ pursuit of a College Football Playoff (CFP) berth in the 2025 season. After a transitional 2024 campaign that concluded with an 8–5 record and a narrow 31–35 loss to USC in the Las Vegas Bowl, the trio is focused on elevating the program to new heights.
Elko, who returned to College Station in 2023 after a successful stint at Duke, has instilled a disciplined and resilient culture within the team. His no-nonsense approach has been credited with unifying the locker room and fostering a gritty, hard-nosed identity for the Aggies. Under his leadership, Texas A&M achieved a 5–3 conference record in the SEC, showcasing significant progress from previous seasons .
Offensively, Collin Klein’s arrival has brought a dynamic and multifaceted scheme to the Aggies. Klein, a former Kansas State offensive coordinator and Heisman Trophy finalist, has implemented a system that emphasizes versatility and adaptability. His offense at Kansas State ranked in the top 25 nationally in several categories, including scoring offense and rushing yards per game . At Texas A&M, Klein’s innovative play-calling and utilization of personnel have been instrumental in enhancing the team’s offensive performance.
Defensively, Jay Bateman has made an immediate impact as the Aggies’ coordinator. With a background that includes successful tenures at Army and North Carolina, Bateman has developed a defense known for its aggressiveness and adaptability. In the 2024 season, Texas A&M’s defense recorded a season-high six sacks in a dominant 41–10 victory over Missouri, reflecting Bateman’s effective schemes and player development.
As the Aggies prepare for the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff format, the leadership and strategic acumen of Elko, Klein, and Bateman will be crucial. Their combined experience and commitment to excellence position Texas A&M as a formidable contender in the upcoming season. With a solid foundation and a renewed sense of purpose, the Aggies aim to capitalize on their momentum and secure a spot in the national championship conversation.
