Emmitt Smith's son and Jack Nicklaus' grandson were among the notable storylines in college football's Week 13 matchups.

Jeff Hauser

•
Jack Nicklaus' grandson vs. Emmitt Smith’s son one of college football’s Week 13 storylines image

TL;DR

  • Texas A&M faces Samford as a tune-up before their SEC game with Texas.
  • Samford's Vance Nicklaus, Jack Nicklaus' grandson, faces Texas A&M's EJ Smith, Emmitt Smith's son.
  • Nicklaus' blocking is key against A&M's sack-leading defense; Smith seeks to expand his role.
  • Texas A&M is favored to dominate Samford, focusing on efficiency and rest before facing Texas.

The third-ranked Texas A&M Aggies are anticipated to have an easy time against Samford this Saturday, serving as a warm-up before their significant SEC game with Texas the following week. 

However, the matchup features a distinctive narrative involving two athletes from celebrated lineages. Vance Nicklaus, a tight end for Samford and grandson of golf icon Jack Nicklaus, will face off against EJ Smith, a running back for Texas A&M and son of NFL's all-time leading rusher, Emmitt Smith.

Nicklaus excels at blocking, having recorded only one reception for 21 yards this season since moving from Florida State. His contribution might be vital against an A&M defense that tops the FBS in sacks. Samford has surrendered an FCS-worst 51 sacks, and given their quick-passing, high-tempo offense, the Bulldogs might require Nicklaus on the field more for additional pass protection rather than as a pass catcher.

Regarding Smith, he's still establishing his unique role within the Aggies' running game. The junior player scored a crucial 4-yard touchdown, concluding their significant comeback win last week against South Carolina. He equalized the score early in the final quarter, after which A&M maintained their lead. Heading into Saturday's game, he has accumulated 164 yards on the ground and scored three touchdowns across 36 attempts.

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 are expected to have chances to exploit a Samford pass defense that is among the worst in the FCS. Marcel Reed might have more opportunities to throw deep to KC Concepcion, Ashton Bethel-Roman, and Terry Bussey.

As Texas approaches, coach Mike Elko is emphasizing efficiency and discipline for his team. This game presents an opportunity for The Aggies to refine their execution and allow their starters to rest sooner. 

More college football news: 

Contributing Writer