It’s a big week for Notre Dame football, as they’ll host the Texas A&M Aggies in a contest that will have national implications.
The Irish have an opportunity to notch a high-quality win, after dropping its opener at Miami. The Aggies will have other opportunities to do the same, but this is the first of this season for them.
Advertisement
With a contest having this kind of magnitude, we wanted to dig a bit deeper into Notre Dame’s opponent for this weekend. So, Aggies Wire’s lead writer Cameron Ohnysty broke it all down for us, also making his pick for the game. He named three Aggie players that could make life difficult for the Irish along with a few questions on the program as a whole.
Defensive lineman Tyler Onyedim
After an average first start, the Iowa State transfer stepped up, returning back to his roots as one of the Aggies’ best run defenders. As a former 3-4 defensive end, Onyedim’s strength and high motor could be a problem against Notre Dame’s interior O-line.
Advertisement
Wide receiver Mario Craver
There’s potential that receiver KC Concepcion is bracketed early, then look for the speedy Mississippi State transfer to not only burn Notre Dame’s secondary in screens. If he gets adequate blocking, A&M should generate several explosive plays during key moments. Craver is also a threat to take the top of the defense after reeling in a 72-yard score last week.
Linebacker Taurean York
Sep 6, 2025; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies linebacker Taurean York (21) celebrates after a win against the Utah State Aggies at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Sean Thomas-Imagn Images
If the secondary holds up, Texas A&M’s linebacker rotation, led by junior linebacker Taurean York will need to lead the defense from a communication and playmaking standpoint. After allowing over 200 rushing yards against UTSA, the Aggies shut down Utah State, but Notre Dame’s elite running back duo will be an issue from the start. York, and linebacker Scooby Williams will need to set the tone early.
Advertisement
Is former Notre Dame assistant Mike Elko the long-term solution?
Sep 6, 2025; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies head coach Mike Elko during the first quarter against the Utah State Aggies at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Sean Thomas-Imagn Images
It’s hard to say if Mike Elko is the long term solution two games into his second season, but beating Notre Dame and finishing with at least nine wins is certainly something to build off of. However, if he fails to consistently win late in SEC play given the 2025 roster’s talent and depth, nothing is guaranteed.
Is Texas A&M quarterback Marcel Reed the x-factor in this game?
Yes, if the Aggies can’t establish the run, despite having one of the deeper running back rooms, Marcel Reed will need to step up and likely make plays with his legs if Notre Dame’s coverage holds up. In the passing game, look for offensive coordinator Collin Klein to look at exposing the middle of the field, especially KC Concepcion in the slot.If Reed finds his footing early, his performance in the second half will determine A&M’s fate.
Advertisement
Can defensive lineman Cashius Howell distrupt Notre Dame’s offense?
Short answer, yes. Going back to last season, Cashius Howell, even with current NFL rookies Shemart Stewart and Nic Scourton playing in front of him, looked like the best pure pass rusher on the team. After three consecutive sacks against Utah State, that performance likely won’t be replicated, but he’ll need to set the edge and prevent Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love from making big plays.
Contact/Follow us @IrishWireND on X (Formerly Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Notre Dame news, notes, and opinions.
Advertisement
This article originally appeared on Fighting Irish Wire: Behind Enemy Lines: Expert breaks down Notre Dame’s next foe Texas A&M
