Texas A&M's defensive line has struggled during the Aggies' first three games, especially during Saturday's disastrous 31-21 home loss to Kentucky, allowing the Wildcats to rush for over 150 yards, led to Texas transfer running back CJ Baxter's 87 yards and two touchdowns. From the live broadcast to the second view of game film, A&M's D-line was absolutely manhandled.
However, sophomore defensive tackle Landon Rink has been one of the program's most consistent defenders outside of senior DL DJ Hicks and senior cornerback Dezz Ricks, who has allowed just one reception in three games. Per Pro Football Focus, Landon Rink was the Aggies' top-ranked defender against Kentucky, finishing with an 81.3 defensive grade, 79.5 run defense, and 73.2 tackling.
To thrive as a defensive lineman in the SEC, size, strength, and athleticism are must-have traits, but playing with consistent physicality and, most importantly, heart, Landon Rink has displayed starter-level ability in his second season, and after playing 17 snaps against the Wildcats, it might be time for coach Mike Elko and DC Lyle Hemphill to play their younger players much more.
Rink has not racked up the stats, recording just five tackles this season and nine tackles in 2025, but is by far the team's best run defender along the D-line, which was an obvious red flag on Saturday. Credited with three tackles and three stops against Kentucky, Landon Rink has outright earned his time on the field, providing plus play on every snap.
Against LSU in Baton Rouge this weekend, I fully expect Landon Rink and freshman DL Bryce Perry-Wright to see an uptick in their snaps, especially if the regular starters struggle to start the game.
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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M sophomore DL has been one of the Aggies' best defenders
