Steve’s Summer Size-Up: No. 8, Texas A&M

Throughout the summer, we will be analyzing each of Ole Miss’ 12 opponents for the 2015 season and sizing up how difficult the game will be in relationship to the strength of schedule.

We will take the teams in order of meeting date in an attempt to better inform our fanbase what to realistically anticipate going into this new season.

Opponent No. 8: Texas A&M, October 24

• SEC West member (3-5 in 2014, lost to Ole Miss 35-20)
• 2014 record: 8-5
• Difficulty Ranking: 5th
• Head Coach: Kevin Sumlin (28-11, fourth year at A&M)
• Colors: Maroon & White
• Enrollment: 58,577
• Kyle Field capacity: 106,300

Forecast: The Aggies (previously known as the Farmers) may need to suit up both Reveille, the collie mascot, and the 12th man to defeat the Rebs this year. Even with John Chavis who was lured from LSU to head up the defense may not be enough. A&M was the SEC’s bottom dweller in defense this past season and probably will not be a great deal better this time around. Bright spots being predicted on the defense line include defensive ends Myles Garrett and Dueshon Hall. Sophomore linebacker was the defensive MVP of the Liberty Bowl. Their punter, Drew Kaser, is among the nation’s elite. Offensively the Aggies are a different light with passing phenom Kyle Allen and deep threat Speedy Noil double trouble for opposing defenses. Also, Josh Reynolds set a school record with 13 touchdown catches in 2014. There are 12 returning starters plus the punter with six on each side of the line, but the wrecking crew of years past is still a memory. The starting lineup will feature four players who didn’t see a single snap a year ago!

Conclusion: With Bama on the A&M schedule the week prior, Ole Miss could not have a better home field situation. The Aggies allowed 27 sacks last season which will be an invitation to the Landsharks to rise to the top of the Shark Tank. The Rebs could be a favorite ranging from 3-14 points depending upon injuries and the W-L year to date. I see it more at 10 with the Rebs covering and having the stage set for next week’s trip to Auburn.

Our score prediction: Ole Miss 35, Texas A&M 21 (Rebs now 8-0, 4-0 No. 2 in nation)

Next Week: A Halloween trick or treater at Auburn

Previous Weeks

• Memphis Tigers
• New Mexico State Aggies
• Florida Gators
• Vanderbilt Commodores
• Alabama Crimson Tide
• Fresno State Bulldogs
• UT Martin Skyhawks

Steve Vassallo is a HottyToddy.com contributor. Steve writes on Ole Miss athletics, Oxford business, politics and other subjects. He is an Ole Miss grad and former radio announcer for the basketball team. Currently, Steve is a highly successful leader in the real estate business who lives in Oxford with his wife Rosie. You can contact Steve at sovassallo@gmail.com or call him at 985-852-7745.