Texas A&M's secondary got a significant boost in the Aggies' 34-7 win over Arkansas, as Colorado transfer defensive back Tawfiq Byard looks fully integrated into coach Mike Elko's defensive scheme, recording a season-high six tackles in his third appearance after missing the first two games.
One of the top offseason acquisitions, Byard's elite coverage skill set will be heavily relied on for the rest of the season, especially against No. 14 Missouri in Columbia on Saturday afternoon. Against the Razorbacks, Texas A&M's secondary allowed just 111 passing yards and one touchdown, but facing Missouri QB Austin Simmons, who threw for 340 yards and two touchdowns against Florida, is a whole other challenge.
The Aggies' safety rotation, led by Marcus
Ratcliffe and Dalton Brooks, has been average to above average in coverage, while cornerback Dezz Ricks has been the most consistent DB, aside from his bad game vs. LSU in Week 3. Byard's versatility is notable; he can play in the box as a hybrid linebacker, and he is one of the most efficient tacklers, missing just two tackles so far this year.
On Tuesday, Byard spoke to the local media about what drew him to play for the Aggies and Mike Elko, and he offered insight into his on-field mentality.
"Just to stay ready. Outside the x's and o's, always stay ready (and) keep your body right," Byard said. "Me being in college for my fourth year now, I've dealt with a little bit of injuries so just trying to stay ready, being healthy, communication... all those things play a big part."
Texas A&M's 44th-ranked secondary is allowing 191 passing yards per game, which, if the offense is balanced and scores 20 or more points, should be enough to hold Missouri and Austin Simmons at bay. That is a tall task and will take an elite effort from Tawfiq Byard and the rest of the defensive back rotation to keep wide receivers Cayden Lee (522 yards) and Donovan Olugbode (407 yards) at bay.
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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: 'Just stay ready': Texas A&M transfer DB discusses in-season mentality
