Texas A&M Football: Mike Elko’s Defense Shines in 4-0 Start

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX) – Texas A&M’s football team has jumped out to a 4-0 start this season, its best since 2016, thanks in large part to the defensive strategies of head coach Mike Elko.

Under Elko’s leadership, the Aggies have transformed their third down defense, ranking 10th in the nation, allowing opponents to convert just 24.6% of the time. This marks a significant improvement from last year’s rate of 35.4%.

“It’s always a down that we put a real premium on,” Elko said. “We emphasize it a lot. I enjoy it probably more than I do any other part of the game.”

One standout performance this season included a game where the Aggies held their opponent, the Tigers, to zero conversions on 13 attempts on third down. This achievement added to Elko’s reputation as a defensive mastermind, a title supported by Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea.

“He’s a mad scientist and I don’t think anyone does it better,” Lea said, reflecting on their time together at Bowling Green.

Elko’s unique strategies involve various personnel and formations, often surprising opposing quarterbacks with unexpected alignments. “He’s putting more swag to it,” cornerback Will Lee III said of Elko’s innovative approach to third downs.

A&M’s 4-0 record is complemented by a strong defense that includes veteran players like Lee, linebacker Scooby Williams, and defensive lineman Cashius Howell. The defenders’ experience under Elko allows them to react intuitively during games.

Looking ahead, A&M faces Mississippi State this Saturday. The Bulldogs sit seventh in the Southeastern Conference with a 47% conversion rate on third downs, but Elko is focused on maintaining his defensive edge.

“Third down is literally two-thirds of the game,” Elko emphasized. “It’s a huge part of the game.”