Notre Dame at Texas A&M

On August 31, 2024, the Texas A&M Aggies will take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in a highly anticipated season opener featuring two powerhouse programs.

Now led by head coach Mike Elko, the Aggies are entering a new era with a renewed focus on discipline and defensive strength. Elko, who previously served as the defensive coordinator at Texas A&M, is known for his ability to craft tough, aggressive defenses.

The Aggies’ offense will be guided by a talented quarterback who can make plays with his arm and mobility. They’ll rely on a balanced attack featuring a strong running back who can pound the ball inside and a deep group of receivers capable of stretching the field.

Defensively, Texas A&M will look to dominate up front with a stout defensive line, featuring a standout pass rusher who can disrupt Notre Dame’s offense and a linebacker group that excels in coverage and run stopping.

Head coach Marcus Freeman is entering his third year at the helm, continuing to build on his vision of a fast, physical team. Notre Dame’s offense will likely be led by a steady quarterback known for his accuracy and leadership, supported by a versatile running back who adds both power and agility to the offense.

The Irish offensive line, traditionally a strong unit, will be critical in providing protection and creating running lanes.

On defense, Notre Dame is anchored by a talented secondary, with a standout cornerback known for his ball skills and coverage ability, and a defensive front that excels at generating pressure and shutting down the run.

Advantages

Texas A&M’s Defensive Line    

The Aggies’ strength lies in their defensive front, which has the ability to disrupt Notre Dame’s offense and force them into difficult situations.

Notre Dame’s Offensive Balance 

The Irish may have an edge with their balanced offense, capable of mixing the run and pass effectively, which could keep Texas A&M’s defense off balance and control the tempo of the game.

This game will serve as an early test for both programs, with Texas A&M seeking to make a statement under new leadership, while Notre Dame looks to solidify their standing as a playoff contender under Marcus Freeman.