Thanksgiving features a matchup of two Big 12 rivals: the Texas Longhorns and Texas A&M Aggies.
Texas-Texas A&M on Thanksgiving is one of the richest traditions in college football. This has to be one of the most storied rivalries in college football but sadly, this will be the last game played by each other. The Aggies will make their move to the Southeastern Conference next season to leave the “shadow” of Texas and find their own name. This move will end a century-long rivalry and it is very sad to see such a great thing end. Perhaps these teams can pick up a non-conference rivalry game and keep things going.
Last year the Aggies beat the Longhorns 24-17, but this year will feature a more even matchup between the two. Texas is coming off of a loss to Kansas State while A&M is coming off of a blowout victory over Kansas.
The Longhorns are 6-4 while the Aggies have underachieved at 6-5. While both teams are going through a down period, I’m sure these teams will put on a show.
Texas comes off a 17-13 loss to Kansas State in which the Longhorns only gave up 121 total yards of offense.
It has to be disappointing to have such a great defensive performance and still lose. They’re going to have a short week to pick things up and play a tough game.
The key for Texas will be quarterback play. It has been very inconsistent with quarterbacks and either Case McCoy or David Ash will have to step up and deliver a good performance in order for Texas to win. I look for Texas to use more of McCoy in this one; he played well against KSU and he can’t make mistakes if the Longhorns want to win.
Also, I look for Texas to get the running game going. It had 191 rushing yards against Kansas State and the running game has been a big part of its offense since they have two young quarterbacks. The Longhorns will have to get the ground attack going so they can open the passing game.
Texas A&M comes off a 61-7 win over Kansas, having compiled 469 yards of total offense. After three straight losses the Aggies needed a victory. Playing Texas will end their history with the Big 12 as they move into the SEC next year.
A key for the Aggies will be quarterback Ryan Tannehill. If he can cut down on his interceptions for this game then the Aggies will have a great chance at winning.
Also, A&M can’t fall asleep after halftime. It has a habit of playing great one half and letting teams come back during the
second. If it can play a full four quarters of consistent football then look for them to come up with the victory.
I like the Aggies’ high-powered offense and I don’t believe the Longhorns defense will be able to keep up.
I think the Aggies will pull this one out and get the win.
