Mike Elko sends candid message to the Aggie fan base

This week, Texas A&M coach Mike Elko, who is entering his third season at the helm, made an appearance on the Always College Football show, hosted by former Alabama quarterback and CFB analyst Greg McElroy, answering several key questions, including the Aggies’ strategy this fall to continue their road winning streak, finishing 4-1 last season.

After two seasons, Elko has earned national praise for being ahead of schedule, leading the Aggies to the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history, while quarterback Marcel Reed passed for a career-high 3,169 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions last season, combined with Bowling Green transfer edge Cashius Howell leading the SEC in sacks, and becoming the program’s 11th unanimous All-American.

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However, losing to Texas for the second straight season in Austin, followed by the Aggies’ disappointing home loss to eventual national runner-up Miami in the first round of the CFP, cast a dark cloud over what was otherwise an historic season, even as Elko earned a six-year extension worth $69 million.

Texas A&M’s national perception has changed for the better, and while the Aggies have continued to dominate the recruiting trail, currently owning the No. 1-ranked 2027 recruiting class, one successful season won’t cut it, and getting back to the CFP and making it past the first round is the primary goal heading into the 2026 season.

During his interview with McElroy, Mike Elko sent a clear message to the 12th Man, and while their support is stronger than oak, the New Jersey continued to state that Texas A&M finally has a head coach that is building the program the “right way,” and laying the foundation that is critical to eventually competing for, and winning a national title.