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Texas A&M at The Voice of College Football

Texas A&M at The Voice of College Football

By: The Voice of College Football Network
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Welcome to Texas A&M at The Voice of College Football Network, your home for In-depth discussion, debate, & analysis on all things Texas A&M. We have you covered from offseason all the way to game day. Join us as we embark on another season!Gig 'Em!For business inquiries please contact: Markrogerstv@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.The Voice of College Football Network Football Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Texas A&M Recruiting Updates for 2027 Class + Spring Game Preview

    Texas A&M Recruiting Updates for 2027 Class + Spring Game Preview
    Apr 15 2026
    Episode Context & Tone The show recaps the end of spring practices and looks ahead to the Maroon & White Game (Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. CT at Kyle Field — free admission, likely on SEC Network+).Hosts emphasize that this game unofficially closes the early offseason (transfer portal + spring ball) and transitions into summer/official visit season.They stress taking the spring game with a grain of salt due to limited snaps for starters, makeshift lines, and precautionary sit-outs. Focus on individual flashes, scheme fit, and newcomer integration rather than final judgments.Overall vibe: Optimistic about the program's trajectory under Mike Elko in Year 3, with strong defensive-minded coaching staff (Elko, Lyle Hemphill as DC, Travis Williams at LB, etc.) and talent development emphasis. 2027 Recruiting Updates Texas A&M has momentum in the 2027 class (already multiple commits, trending toward a top-ranked group). Key prospects discussed: Jaden Upshaw (4-star WR, Georgia): Announcing commitment on April 15 (tomorrow relative to the episode). Hosts are very confident in A&M landing him. It was expected to come down to A&M vs. Miami, with Florida and Alabama also in the mix. Upshaw's size, versatility (can play X, Z, slot), and physicality after the catch make him a high-upside addition to complement the young WR room. Multiple predictions favor A&M.Mekai Brown (4-star Edge, Connecticut — top edge in state): Committing Friday, April 17. Final five: Ohio State, USC, Ole Miss, Notre Dame, Texas A&M. A&M remains in strong contention after a recent visit. Hosts note USC as the slight favorite ("team to beat"), but A&M has done what it needs to stay viable. Brown is a 6'7", 250+ lb freak athlete with versatility across the DL as a pure pass rusher. High upside as a developmental NFL prospect (compared to hybrid do-everything types like Harold Perkins). Development and scheme fit under Elko/Elijah Robinson are big selling points. Don't count A&M out even if he commits elsewhere early — the portal/OV season keeps things fluid.Isaac McNeil (4-star LB/Edge, Alabama — Vigor HS): Recently narrowed to a top 7 (includes in-state Auburn and Alabama, with Auburn slightly ahead). Freakish athlete (6'3", 210 lbs) with sideline-to-sideline range, run-stopping ability, pass-rush production, and physicality ("hits like a truck"). Versatile — can play edge or off-ball LB. Productive in high school. A&M has an official visit scheduled for June; Elko's defensive-minded presence impressed him. Hosts view him as a high-character, high-athleticism fit for Travis Williams' LB room. Not seen as direct insurance for other targets like Caden Henderson (Miami lean), but part of pursuing elite athletes who fit the vision. Other LB options mentioned (e.g., Noah Glover). Broader Recruiting Notes: A&M is pursuing top talent nationwide (defensive line emphasis post-Sean Spencer departure, with Elijah Robinson stepping in).Early commitments are treated seriously by prospects (viewed like contracts), but flips remain possible.Hosts highlight program fit, NIL/perks, coaching stability, and NFL development track (e.g., Cash McCash's one-year jump to potential first-rounder).Positive on the defensive staff's brainpower and ability to find roles (or portal if needed). Spring Game Preview (Maroon & White Game) Don't overreact — makeshift O-line, veterans sitting out, limited reps for starters. Last year's game had mixed reviews, yet players like Marcel Reed bounced back strong. Focus on scheme execution, newcomer integration, and individual standouts. Key Players/Storylines to Watch (Hosts' Top Priorities): Isaiah Horton (Alabama transfer WR) — Growing connection with Marcel Reed. Watch his X-receiver role, deep/crossing routes, red-zone presence, and hands (tall frame makes some catches look routine). How does he handle contested balls or drops?Aaron Gregory (Freshman WR) + TK Norman — Gregory's versatility (Z, slot, potential X backup to Horton). YAC ability, size, hands. Living up to practice hype in a live setting. Deep WR room (Craver, Bethel-Roman, Bussey injured/limited) gives opportunities. Also watch Madden Williams, Mike Brown, etc.Anto Saka (Northwestern transfer Edge) — Integration into the edge group. Freak athlete with NFL traits; scouts are excited. Watch vs. quality tackles (e.g., Robert Borden). Hasn't fully flashed yet in spring — could this be his coming-out game as a Cash McCash replacement?Backup QB Battle (Brady Hart vs. Hellman Katsuga) — Nothing set at QB2; battle likely goes into fall camp. Hart (Michigan flip, poise, decision-making, some mobility) trending as favorite per sources. Katsuga (competitive dog, good arm). Marcel Reed will take snaps but won't be judged harshly — focus on high-percentage throws, progressions, avoiding hero-ball. New OC Holmon Wiggins + QB coach Joey Lynch.Entire Tight End Room — New additions (Richie Anderson — inline blocker; Houston Thomas — ...
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Texas A&M Recruiting Buzz + Gigem247 Carter Karels Joins to Talk Spring Practice, Spring Game / Texas A&M Aggies LIVE 56

    Texas A&M Recruiting Buzz + Gigem247 Carter Karels Joins to Talk Spring Practice, Spring Game / Texas A&M Aggies LIVE 56
    Apr 8 2026
    Episode Overview & Intro (Hosts + Guest Intro) Hosts welcome listeners to "Texas A&M Aggies Live."They note the team has completed 8 practices + 1 closed scrimmage (media-limited access; insights come mainly from Aggie media videos).Early observations: Marcel Reed looks comfortable running the offense; overall progress on both sides of the ball despite a small sample size.Guest introduction: Carter Karels (covers A&M since Feb 2023 for Gig'em 247). Praised as a trusted insider and strong Twitter/X follow. Karels introduces himself and expresses excitement for the appearance. Spring Practice Takeaways – Standouts on Both Sides of the Ball Karels and hosts break down observations from open/closed sessions: Offense (Biggest Highlight: Wide Receiver Room) Wide receivers are the clear offensive standout — deep, multiple, and improved versatility. Replacing consensus All-American Casey Concepcion was a question; Isaiah Horton (6'4", transfer from Miami/Alabama) adds size and proven production as a big X/target.Aaron Gregory (freshman) stands out repeatedly: physical build, fits seamlessly into the rotation, strong clips from practices.Other impressives: Madden Williams, Jaden Warren (one of the best catches of spring), Ashton Bethel-Roman (ABR) (poised for a jump after strong second half of 2025), Mario Craver (health permitting — potential 1,000-yard guy, already 3rd-team All-SEC), and depth from 2026 freshmen. The group is deeper and more multiple than 2025; more options when top targets are bracketed. Not necessarily "better" overall, but improved body types and skill variety. Horton gives a reliable "throw-it-up" option that was sometimes missing. Defense Challenges: New bodies on the defensive line; secondary banged up.Linebackers exceed expectations and have been a bright spot: Losses of Torian York and Scooby Williams; limited prior reps from others.Noah McHale and Daymion Sanford look like leaders — making plays in competitive settings, providing consistency in the run game.Ray Coney (tackling machine, high NCAA tackling leader previously) should pop more once tackling/scrimmaging ramps up.Potential for Jordan Lockhart to ascend. Overall: LB group feels solid with three reliable pieces; defense needs more clarity on DL and secondary once fully healthy. Offensive Line Depth & Evaluation Tough to fully judge due to no/full tackling in many sessions ("thud" tempo) and new pieces.Mark Naboo (center) likely locks in as starter.Wilkin Formby trending as starting right tackle.Left tackle battle wide open: Tyree Adams (transfer, SEC experience but injury history noted), Lamont Rogers, Robert Gordon, surprise emergence of Tyler Thomas, Blake Ivey, Trovon Baugh, etc.Adam Cushing and Mike Elko philosophy: Rotate 7-9 linemen early in the season; test combinations extensively through spring and fall camp before settling on a five. Not rushing to name starters.Plenty of SEC-experienced transfers; depth is a strength, but run blocking/pass pro consistency will be critical for Reed and the offense. Marcel Reed & Quarterback Outlook Spring evaluation is limited (no sacks, limited running).Positives seen: Cleaner mechanics, better accuracy (fewer "what is he seeing?" throws vs. air or in drills), low turnovers (only one pick noted, on a deflection).Focus areas from 2025: Ball security (turnovers in big games), decision-making (don't force superhero plays — take the 3-yard out), footwork late in games, and not forcing into tight windows.New QB coach Joey Lynch emphasis: Take what's there; leverage the dynamic receivers instead of forcing deep balls.Hosts note Reed's up-and-down nature isn't linear; cleaner mechanics could unlock more consistency. With improved O-line and weapons, 2026 could be his best year (potential 9-10+ win team if run game/OL holds).Context: 2025 had moments of brilliance mixed with struggles when run game/OL faltered. Key Transfers & Position Notes Safety (Tafik Bayard from Colorado): Hybrid safety/LB type, strong tackler (85+ tackles previously). Excels in game/tackling settings more than thud practices. Competitive room with Marcus Ratcliffe and Dalton Brooks (Brooks out this spring). Potential to improve tackling in space; questions remain on playmaking/interceptions.Secondary overall: Depth/experience but needs consistency in man/zone and turnovers. Ricky Gibson (transfer) limited/banged up so far.Defensive Line: High potential but production questions. Anto Saka: Freak athlete, game-wrecker potential (one-on-one dominance), but limited sacks historically; better scheme/personnel around him could unlock him.Marco Jones (sophomore): High floor/potential; built for Jack (hybrid) role; freak size/athleticism.D.J. Hicks: Leadership role, needs to put it all together as pass rusher.Others (Angela McCollum, C.J. Sims): McCollum flashing plays (pick-six, run stuffs); edge rusher remains a question after losing key pieces like Albert Regis. Running Back Room Ruben Owens (returning): Huge ...
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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • 5-star OL Visit Buzz AND a 5-Star COMMITMENT? + Spring Practice Notes/ Texas A&M Aggies LIVE 55

    5-star OL Visit Buzz AND a 5-Star COMMITMENT? + Spring Practice Notes/ Texas A&M Aggies LIVE 55
    Apr 1 2026
    1. 5-Star Edge Zyron Forstall Commitment (2027 Class) Texas A&M landed its 11th commitment in the 2027 cycle with 5-star edge rusher Zyron Forstall from IMG Academy (by way of Louisiana). He committed after a strong campus visit (multiple days, including practice and meetings). Physical profile: Listed around 6-3, 235 lbs; projects to add weight and top out near 250+ lbs at the next level. Described as a "tweener" with elite bend, explosiveness, and smooth/quick pass-rush moves (compared to "Silk Sonic" smoothness and Metallica's "Seek and Destroy" intensity).Film/Production highlights: Junior season included 5 sacks, 4 hurries, and ~28 tackles. Excels in run defense and pass rushing; bends around tackles with ease and plays like an NFL veteran despite facing elite competition at IMG.Recruiting context: Beat out Miami, Notre Dame, LSU, and others. Elijah Robinson (DL coach) played a big role, building on prior relationships with Forstall and his family. Ties into A&M's emphasis on development, family feel, and "wrecking crew" mentality under Mike Elko.Impact: Elevates the 2027 defensive line haul (joins commits like Kaden McCarty, Miles Smith, Elijah Patmon). Positions Forstall as a potential early contributor with immediate playing time possible. Makes A&M's class the current No. 1 overall per some rankings (strong blue-chip talent across DBs and DL). Hosts note his junior tape shows "perfect" tools as a pass rusher plus plus run defense—avoiding situational-only production. Potential next from IMG: Teammate WR Eric McFarlane is on the radar, with positive buzz around A&M's scheme (Holmon Wiggins as play-caller) and relationships. 2. 5-Star OL Visit Buzz: Albert Simeon 5-star offensive lineman Albert Simeon (Lake Charles, LA / Sam Houston HS) visited A&M (Monday–Thursday window, including spring practice). Raving reviews from the Bright Complex about how he and other visitors absorbed the operation, new OL coaching, and practice vibe. Profile: Elite interior versatility (can play all spots, possibly center); praised for best hands among 2027 interior OL prospects. "Can't-miss" type with brick-wall traits, elite feet, and athleticism.Recruiting battle: A&M competing hard with LSU (home-state) and Notre Dame. Recent momentum from the visit and family relationships. A&M already has OT commits (e.g., DeMarrion Johnson shut down recruitment and is locked in early).Fit: Adds interior depth/versatility to what could be one of A&M's stronger 2027 OL classes (compared favorably to recent cycles like 2024/2025). Hosts emphasize program fits and character over pure talent grabs. Overall recruiting feel: A&M's 2027 class is stacked with blue-chip prospects (defensive focus shining); strategy prioritizes development and tight-knit staff/family connections. Buzz on potential June/July commitments (e.g., John Meredith unofficial visit soon; Joshua Dobson official in June). 3. Spring Practice Notes (Early 2026 Offseason) A&M wrapped early practices (at least 6 by episode time). Focus on young talent stepping up amid veteran pieces and scheme evolution under new OC Holmon Wiggins (high-tempo passing elements rumored; ranked as impactful SEC coordinator change). Offense highlights: Freshman WR Aaron Gregory (2026 signee, former 2-way player): Standing out big-time. Impressive route running, size/speed/athleticism, and mental maturity. Living up to blue-chip billing (some pre-college rankings had him as a 5-star). Getting reps with Marcel Reed; benefiting from Ashton Bethel-Roman's injury (time for chemistry-building). Potential early contributor, including punt returns. Hosts see NFL traits and compare favorably to past big-bodied A&M WRs like Josh Reynolds (but with more athleticism).Other WR notes: Isaiah Horton and Jayden Warren also flashing; Terry Bussey versatility discussed. Emphasis on size/athleticism for Marcel Reed (big targets downfield/red-zone "money ball" throws).QB Marcel Reed: High-variance athlete taking strides; leadership role evident. New scheme could maximize his playmaking.OL/RB: Optimism on plug-and-play starters under Adam Cushing; RB depth (Ruben Owens adding muscle) looks solid. Freshmen potentially contributing. Defense highlights: LB Noah McHale (sophomore, former 4-star): Receiving heavy praise from players/coaches. Instinctual, sideline-to-sideline, nose for the ball, size/strength. Poised for bigger role replacing Tauren York/Scooby Williams production. Run defense focus; consistency and "dog" mentality highlighted. Could pair well with Daymion Sanford (leadership/athleticism) and Ray Coney (stability/tackling).Other: Bryce Perry potential early reps; DJ Hicks effort in drills as DL leader. Overall "wrecking crew" revival with elite athleticism + development. General themes: Freshmen (esp. on offense) showing college readiness earlier than in past eras. Elko's defensive roots and staff continuity (elevations like Wiggins) building confidence. Spring allows evaluation of depth/...
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    1 hr and 4 mins
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