Nick Saban, one of college football’s all-time legendary head coaches and now a top analyst, just dropped some serious praise on Texas A&M quarterback Marcel Reed and head coach Mike Elko. Speaking with ESPN from the 2026 SEC Media Days, Saban didn’t just give a casual nod, he said he “really likes what the Aggies bring to the table this season,” specifically calling out Reed’s return as their signal-caller. This isn’t some quiet compliment, it is a ringing endorsement from a guy who knows talent when he sees it.
Saban’s Stamp of Approval on Reed’s Game
Saban went on to say that he “love the way the guy plays,” which, coming from him, is huge. He sees Reed as a “really good passer who has continued to get better each year.” This Nashville, Tennessee, native is surrounded by a “slew of talented and electric targets,” giving him every chance to take his game to the next level. Saban clearly believes in what Elko has built in College Station, and that belief starts right under center with Reed’s potential.
A&M’s Climb to the Top Tier
Elko’s second season was massive, with Texas A&M achieving its first 11-0 start since 1992 and making their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance. They posted a 19-7 record through his first two seasons, which ranks second in program history. While they did tie a school record with 10 players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Aggies weren’t sitting still. They hauled in the No. 4 transfer portal class and the No. 7 recruiting class, plus they retained key guys like Reed, safety Marcus Ratcliffe, and linebacker Daymion Sanford, all of whom were at SEC Media Days. With that talent on the roster, an established coaching staff, a killer stadium atmosphere, and a passionate fan base, Texas A&M has all the ingredients to become an elite program. But they have to raise the product on the field to the next level, especially facing one of the most daunting schedules in the nation.
The Aggies have the pieces, they have the hype, and they have Saban’s eyes on them. Can they handle the pressure and make that next leap this season?
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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