Texas A&M Prepares for McNeese State: Elko, Players Reflect on Week 1

COLLEGE STATION – As the Texas A&M Aggies gear up for their Week 2 matchup against McNeese State, head coach Mike Elko, wide receiver Cyrus Allen, linebacker Marcus Ratcliffe, and quarterback Conner Weigman addressed the media on Monday. The Aggies are determined to rebound from their season-opening loss and set the tone for the rest of the season.

Elko reflected on the team's performance in Week 1, acknowledging the missed opportunity to start the season on the right foot. "We had an opportunity to set this season off on a good foot and couldn't get it done," Elko said, emphasizing the need for improvement across the board.

One area of focus was the play of quarterback Conner Weigman. Elko noted that Weigman struggled to settle his feet, despite having clean pockets to operate from. "He is confident in the corrections he needs to make. It's not all on him. We need to do a better job of getting the passing game on track," Elko said.

The Aggies also faced difficulties in critical moments, particularly on a third-and-five late in the game. "We started pressing and gave up uncharacteristic runs. Hats off to Notre Dame, but now we go back to work," Elko added.

Looking ahead to McNeese, Elko highlighted the similarities between the two teams, especially in defensive structure. "They're very similar, structure-wise, to what we do and the way we play. There are certainly some pieces on their roster that we need to respect and prepare for, but at the end of the day, it's going to be about us and playing to our standard," Elko stated.

Elko also addressed the performance of the offensive line, acknowledging improvements but emphasizing the need for more consistency. He mentioned the contributions of players like T.J. Shanahan and Koli Faaiu, who will take on a more prominent role following Mark Nabou Jr.'s season-ending injury.

"We have to do a way better job of leveraging the football. That's why most of the big runs happened," Elko explained, stressing the importance of fundamentals in the trenches.

Elko expressed confidence in Weigman's ability to bounce back from a challenging start. "I think Conner will respond great. He is competitive and a winner. The kids are confident in him, and he is confident in himself," Elko said.

As the Aggies prepare for McNeese, Elko emphasized the importance of self-reflection and accountability within the team. "The challenge I laid out is if 150 people look in the mirror and improve, we will be better. If they point the finger, we make no progress," he said.

Despite the early-season setback, Elko remains focused on the long-term goals of the team. "It's a 12-game season. Ideally, we would be 1-0 talking about that. Unfortunately, we are not, but we have to learn and continue to work," he concluded.

The Aggies will take the field at Kyle Field this weekend, looking to notch their first win of the season against McNeese State.