No. 3 Texas A&M is expected to cruise through its late-season matchup with Samford on Saturday, a tune-up before next week’s SEC showdown against Texas.
But the game carries a unique storyline with the meeting of two athletes with iconic bloodlines. Samford tight end Vance Nicklaus, the grandson of golf legend Jack Nicklaus, will line up opposite Texas A&M running back EJ Smith, the son of NFL all-time rushing leader Emmitt Smith.
Nicklaus is a blocking specialist, with just one catch for 21 yards this season after transferring from Florida State. His role could be critical against an A&M defense that leads the FBS in sacks. Samford has allowed an FCS-worst 51 sacks, and with its quick-passing, up-tempo scheme, the Bulldogs may need Nicklaus on the field more as an extra pass protector than as a receiving target.
As for Smith, he continues to carve out his own identity in the Aggies’ backfield. The junior delivered a pivotal 4-yard touchdown run that capped off last week’s historic comeback against South Carolina. He tied the game early in the fourth quarter before A&M held on for good. He enters Saturday's contest with 164 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 36 carries.
The family ties are a reminder of college football’s greatness, but the matchup itself appears one-sided. Samford’s offense relies heavily on short throws yet struggles to finish drives, and its protection issues are likely to collide with the Aggies’ aggressive front led by Cashius Howell. Texas A&M is expected to blitz early and often, trusting its secondary in man coverage.
The Aggies should have opportunities to attack a Samford pass defense that ranks near the bottom of the FCS. Marcel Reed may get extended chances to stretch the field with KC Concepcion, Ashton Bethel-Roman and Terry Bussey.
With Texas up next, coach Mike Elko wants his team to be efficient and remain discipline. This is the Aggies' chance to sharpen its execution and get its starters off the field early.
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