Grading the Aggies: QB Kellen Mond
COLLEGE STATION - As Texas A&M enjoys a week away from the gridiron, questions remain about the overall status of the team. The No.25 Aggies are coming into midseason with a 3-2 record, both losses at the hands of top-10 programs.
There's time to correct the little mistakes on both sides of the ball before the Aggies host No.1 Alabama on October 12. One area that has started to come into question is under center, where Kellen Mond has had mixed results during his junior season.
Mond has flashed in moments to be one of the top quarterbacks in the Southeastern Conference but also seen his fair share of struggles. Still, part of the reason for A&M's success is directly on him thanks to his tenacity and attitude.
With this being a bye week, let's look at some of Mond's greatest strengths and weaknesses thus far.
POSITIVES
When looking at perseverance, it's hard not to give Mond an A+ in that category. Even when down against opponents, the San Antonio native has done everything in his power to keep the team thriving on offense. In both losses, Mond led late-game drives downfield to give to score, nearly completing the comeback against Auburn.
His overall approach plays into his favor as well. Once in a rhythm, Mond becomes harder to contain. For the season, the junior has thrown for 1,333 yards, has a 64.% completion rating and thrown for 10 touchdowns.
You could also throw his dual-threat ability into the mix when describing his success this year. Finishing second in rushing a season ago, Mond has rushed for 110 yards, averaging 22 yards a game, and scored a pair of touchdowns. Against Auburn, he led the team on the ground.
Finally, Mond has that "wow" factor when it comes to passing. Quality footwork allows him to extend plays as the pocket collapses and make throws deep downfield. Against Texas State and Auburn, Mond connected with Jhmon Ausbon for two 40-plus yard gains on acrobatic throws.
NEGATIVES
With a weakened run game, the Aggies have relied more on Mond's arm than last season. Without the luxury of SEC-leading rusher Trayveon Williams in the backfield, he's struggled at times when the run game has stalled. On third down, Mond is currently connecting a season-low 48.3% of the time.
There have also been problems connecting early. Three times this season, the Aggies had a chance to score early through the air thanks to plays made by his receivers. Twice they were overshot, and the third time one could argue that Kendrick Rogers misjudged the ball. All three opening drives led to punts by Braden Mann.
The final error lies within the trust of his receivers. Mond consistently targets Aubson as his first option. While he'll sometimes look towards Quartney Davis and Ainais Smith, his eyes will always fixate on his roommate. That has led to a pair of red-zone interceptions, killing drives that could have added life to the roster.
OVERVIEW
Mond has been one of the more consistent players on offense for A&M. That has led to mixed results. It always seems to be a slow start but once under control, he connects with his targets and finds ways to score.
The problem is the team as a whole has failed to set the tone properly early. Part of that could be on the lack of a run game or multiple drops from the receivers. However, Mond will need to take some blame.
Setting a proper tone and building trust with his receiver should be the most prominent things Mond will need to improve on this week. There have been some highlight moments as well as major setbacks during this season.
Overall, he's been a focal point of the offense and helped the team win three games. He's also kept the Aggies in the game late against Auburn at Kyle Field. Mond certainly is serviceable, but there's room for improvement.
Midseason grade: B-
