Texas A&M's 2026 season opener vs. Missouri State is just five days away, as coach Mike Elko enters Year 3 with even higher expectations after leading the Aggies to the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history. After a productive preseason, it's clear that, despite losing 15 starters, including a record 10 players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, this is one of the deepest rosters in Texas A&M history.
No, that is not hyperbole for those who have been following along, as 65% of the 2025 roster, paired with 17 transfer portal additions and the 2026 signing class, makes up a roster filled with NFL-level talent, while redshirt junior quarterback Marcel Reed continues to serve as the team's lynchpin after throwing for a career-high
3,169 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions last season.
After adding Alabama transfer WR Isaiah Horton, who brings much-needed size at 6'4", Texas A&M's wide receiver rotation is widely considered one of the best corps in the country, while four new starting offensive linemen will test the offense early, but Elko is trusting O-line coach Adam Cushing to field the best unit.
On paper, Texas A&M is a massive favorite against Missouri State, looking to send a message before hosting Arizona State in Week 2, and according to ESPN's Bill Connelly, Texas A&M is a 41.5-point favorite to secure the opening-week victory, predicted to win 48-5.
Missouri State scoring five points, which would be a field goal and a safety, is highly unlikely, but pitching a shutout is the goal for the Aggie revamped defensive line, which is looking to make a statement after three 2025 starters, including unanimous All-American Cashius Howell, were selected in the NFL Draft.
WEEK 1 SP+ PICKS. WE'RE BACK.
— Bill Connelly (@ESPN_BillC) August 30, 2026
LSU 28, Clemson 18
Ole Miss 29, Louisville 24
SMU 27, FSU 25
Irish 35, Badgers 12
UCLA 26.8, Cal 26.7
Kansas 48, LIU 1, lol
Spreadsheet is updated for all levels (and postgame win expectancy -- no surprises this week)!https://t.co/sq3wG4Xaj9 pic.twitter.com/XaPmxcUs9E
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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: ESPN's Bill Connelly predicts Texas A&M vs. Missouri State
