Trenches Review: Texas A&M Bye Week 1

That's right, folks.

Since there is no opponent on the program, we have a Trenches preview instead of the typical Trenches preview review instead. We have a lot to talk about in the first six weeks of the season.

The Aggies are off to a 5-1 start, including a 3-0 conference record.

A big part of that is thanks to the trenches.

Let's talk about the big ones for a moment.

Offensive line

Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images

I expected the offensive line to improve this season.

After all, the bar on this unit was literally on the floor.

The last few seasons have been absolutely terrible, both in passer protection and pressure in the run game.

This season was a complete 180.

Adam Cushing has earned a living and more.

Despite multiple injuries at the center position, this group has improved dramatically. Reuben Fatheree has started to play more like the tackle we saw in his first year. Ar'maj Reed-Adams was a wonderful addition on the right side. And across the board, we see the Aggies playing with an attitude that hasn't been on display in a long time.

With an average of 232 yards per game, the Aggies rank in the top ten in the country in rushing offense. Le'Veon Moss has blossomed into an elite defender and is among the top ten in the country in rushing yards.

The passing offense hasn't been as successful as the rushing attack this year, but that's more due to the quarterback and receiver play (which also appears to be improving) than anything on offense.

Through its first six games, Texas A&M has allowed just seven sacks and ranks in the top half of the country at 32nd.

Last year the Aggies finished 87th.

In a vacuum, this would be a top-notch performance, but considering where this unit was last year, this turnaround was otherworldly. If this unit can continue its efforts in the core of the SEC schedule, be on your guard.

Defensive line

Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images

It was a shaky start for the Aggies' defense in the run game.

Texas A&M gave Notre Dame 198 yards on the ground and then allowed 180 yards to McNeese.

Since?

Teams were closed.

No SEC opponent rushed for more than 100 yards against the Aggies (Arkansas was right at 100) and some extremely talented backs turned in dismal performances.

Similar to the rushing attack, the pass rush did not start the year with the numbers expected.

However, that aspect of the Aggie defense has also come to life, including a stunning six sacks against Mizzou.

A big part of that success was the emergence of Nic Scourton on the sidelines. We knew the Aggies were getting a special player. Scourton lives up to that standard, ranking ninth in the country with 10 tackles for loss.

With Shemar Stewart on the other end, the Aggies have one of the most fearsome finishing duos in the country.

And that’s all without considering an interior defensive line anchored by Shemar Turner.

This unit is truly special and has the ability to turn a game on its head at any time.

Anytime Texas A&M can force a team into obvious passing situations, they have a blast.

As a former defensive lineman, watching them work brings tears to my eyes.

In summary, both trench units have performed extremely well at this point in the season. The scary part? They only seem to be getting better.

#BTHObyeweek