2006 Statistics

written by Jeff Davis

When you talk about Texas A&M football these days, the first thing you think of is their excellent running game. Whether it is powerful 274 pound junior all-conference Jorvorskie Lane, fleet footed sophomore stud Mike Goodson, or junior dual-threat quarterback Stephen McGee, the Aggies are loaded in this department. As the team’s top three rushers, they combined for a unit ranking of 8th in the nation. Goodson hit the ground quickly, garnering Big 12 All-Freshman Team honors, and he and Lane prove to be a great one-two punch. McGee is an accurate passer who keeps his mistakes to a minimum (two INTs led nation). With defenses keying on the running game, McGee can further develop his down field prowess to keep opposing teams honest. Up front is another strength - the offensive line has four returning starters, highlighted by powerful all-Big 12 senior center Cody Wallace (740 lb squat set school record!) This will be one of the top units in the nation since they are stacked with quality returning upperclassmen. The Aggies have balance with an experienced wide receiver corps returning. They are actually led by junior TE Martellus Bennett, who is set to be the primary target for the quarterback with the departure of their leading receiver. Bennett has the talent to be one of the top TE’s in the nation. McGee spreads the ball out considerably, but not much scoring has yet been generated from his passing game. The power running game will continue to be relied upon mostly in the red zone, but the TE position can never be overlooked.

Much like the offense, the senior leadership and strength of the defense is in the trenches. The talent starts with experienced seniors Chris Harrington and Red Bryant. Harrington led the team getting into the backfield (7.5 sacks and 11.5 TFL). There is also great upperclassmen depth in this area - either Michael Bennett or Cyril Obiozor gets a well-earned start with Jason Jack departing early. Having tackle Bryant back from knee injury only toughens the line that much more, although he will likely miss spring practice but is expected to be ready by summer. The linebacking corps will miss leading tackler Justin Warren, but Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year Misi Tupe and Mark Dodge return as seniors after having large impacts as JC transfers. Many are familiar with Dodge’s story of being at the Pentagon in the military during the Sept 11th attacks. His bravery and toughness were on display nationally as he led his team to a dramatic defensive win on the road against arch-rival Texas. A&M has been bringing up a young secondary for years it seems. Finally the group will have some junior and senior leadership, as four of the five defensive backs in the scheme are returning starters. The leaders are FS Devin Gregg and corner Danny Gorrer (both juniors), and senior Brock Newton at the WHIP position. They are a deep and fast group with good awareness and coverage skills, but are lacking in size against bigger receivers. Sophomore Jordan Peterson will be a good corner, especially since he learned much via blown coverages. Consistency on this side of the ball will go a long way towards securing extra wins.