Aggies drop in AP poll following loss to No.1 Clemson
COLLEGE STATION - Even with a talented roster found in College Station, Texas A&M would have a tough task ahead on the road. The Aggies traveled east to face defending national champion Clemson in Memorial Stadium.
The Aggies took a 3-0 lead early. They wouldn't score again until the final seconds of the outing. Clemson dominated on defense, picking up the 24-10 victory.
The Associated Press Top 25 poll was kind to A&M with their new standings on Sunday. They knew defeating Clemson would be a hard ask for Aggies. Starting the week at No.12, A&M would fall four spots to No.16.
A&M's defense took great strides, pressuring Trevor Lawrence and limiting breakaway runs from Travis Etienne. Cornerback Myles Jones looked impressive in coverage and delivered a few great open-field tackles. Outside of several big-time throws, the Aggies defense was the team's bright spot.
A&M's defense took great strides, pressuring Trevor Lawrence and limiting breakaway runs from Travis Etienne. Cornerback Myles Jones looked impressive in coverage and delivered a few great open-field tackles. Outside of several big-time throws, the Aggies defense was the team's bright spot.
The offense, however, will need some work. Kellen Mond did his best to keep drives alive, but his offensive line didn't help. Feeling the pressure and taking several hits, the junior quarterback finished 24 of 42 for 256 yards and a lone touchdown. Running back Jashaun Corbin left the game with a leg injury and did not return.
The sophomore runner finished with just 34 yards on 13 carries.
The Southeastern Conference, as a whole, took a step in the right direction. Alabama and Georgia remained at No.2 and No.3 following blowout wins at home. Meanwhile, LSU would jump into the No.4 spot after an impressive win against then No.9 Texas. Auburn and Florida would round out the top 10 at No.8 and No.9 respectively.
The Aggies still control their own destiny and can earn some ground with a big win over Lamar on Saturday. Kickoff will be at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 14 at Kyle Field.
