Where have you gone Johnny Manziel?
The answer is Cleveland, and the Texas A&M Aggies obviously miss their former quarterback’s presence.
The No. 7 Alabama Crimson Tide annihilated the No. 21 Aggies 59-0 Saturday. Nick Saban‘s squad dominated every level of the game. The Crimson Tide racked up 602 total yards. Meanwhile, the Aggies’ explosive offense was held to only 172 total yards.
While Alabama earned an opportunity to move up the national rankings, Texas A&M is going in the opposite direction after its third-straight loss.
Over the past two weeks, the Aggies have been outscored 66-0 during the first half against the Ole Miss Rebels and the Crimson Tide.A Kevin Sumlin-coached team had never been shut out in the first half before last week. Now it’s happened twice in a row. #TAMUvsBAMA
— Sam Khan Jr. (@skhanjr) October 18, 2014
After the past three seasons, Sumlin’s squad lost multiple top talents. Manziel, wide receiver Mike Evans and offensive tackles Jake Matthews and Luke Joeckel were first-round draft picks. Players such as running back Christine Michael, defensive end Damontre Moore, linebacker Sean Porter and wide receiver Ryan Swope were also drafted. As well as Sumlin has recruited for the Aggies, it’s still a young team at key positions and lacks talent in others.
The Crimson Tide easily exploited Texas A&M’s problem areas. It starts up front with an undermanned defensive line. Alabama’s offensive line mauled its way to 298 rushing yards. Texas A&M couldn’t counter.
The Aggies’ normally explosive offense couldn’t stretch the field. Quarterback Kenny Hill was under pressure throughout the contest and forced off his spot. Alabama played sound football by keeping everything in front of them and not allowing yards after the catch.
These problems became a recipe for disaster.In 7 seasons, @CoachSumlin has lost 3 straight twice before now: ’08 & ’10 (4 straight) at @UHCougarFB #TAMUvsBAMA
— Ivan Maisel (@Ivan_Maisel) October 18, 2014
Fans of Texas A&M should expect plenty of changes after this week. Sumlin already stated at halftime of the game some players would be replaced.
No one should be safe after Texas A&M laid another egg, including Hill after throwing six interceptions the past three games.