Texas A&M stock report, who shined in Saturday’s game against Florida

The Texas A&M Aggies (6-0, 3-0 SEC) continue their dominant run halfway through the season with a 34-17 victory over the Florida Gators. They're off to their best start since 2016 and possess all the attributes of a College Football Playoff contender.

A&M remains a compelling team. A schedule that once appeared daunting now seems far more navigable, and they’ll likely be favored in most remaining matchups—provided their defense maintains its current intensity. While they’re beginning to win over a significant portion of the country as a legitimate threat, head coach Mike Elko knows there’s still plenty of football ahead.

The offense remains inconsistent. When Le’Veon exited the game, the Aggies’ bruising, physical style of play departed with him. Additionally, with KC Concepcion nursing an injury, the offense struggled to find rhythm during the middle quarters until late in the game. The defensive line, however, showed up in force and looked nearly impenetrable after the first quarter. Based on the eye test alone, there’s a strong argument that this unit ranks among the top 10 defenses nationally.

Their third-down defense has been exceptional throughout SEC play, allowing just 2-of-33 conversions over the past few games. When you hit the road, you need two things to travel with you: defense and a reliable ground game. Fortunately, A&M excels in both areas. Even with Moss potentially sidelined, the Aggies can lean on their deep running back rotation and adjust seamlessly to whoever lines up in the backfield.

Here are the individuals who stood out, and those who need to raise their game after Week 7:

Stock Up: Daymion Sanford

It’s official—Sanford is emerging as a key contributor moving forward. He’s been one of the most impactful defenders on the field in recent weeks, turning depth reps into starting-caliber performances. Against Florida, he led the team in tackles and forced a pivotal fumble in the third quarter that set up an Aggie field goal.

Game Stats: 8 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 forced fumble, 1 pass breakup, 1 QB hit

Stock Up: Jamarion Morrow

While his numbers weren’t eye-popping, the coaching staff values his speed and continues to find ways to get him involved. With Moss nursing an injury, Morrow is poised for increased touches. He recorded the biggest play of his young career with a 22-yard touchdown reception from Marcell Reed in the second quarter, giving A&M a 14-7 lead. The ceiling is high for Morrow, and expanded playing time is imminent.

Game Stats: 3 carries, 8 yards, 2.7 average, 1 touchdown / 2 receptions, 33 yards, 1 touchdown

Stock Up: Dayon Hayes

Texas A&M has been searching for a complementary pass rusher to pair with Cashius Howell, and Hayes made a compelling case Saturday night. By game’s end, he was rated among the SEC’s top defenders. With under five minutes remaining and Florida desperate to move the ball, Hayes delivered a strip sack to seal the win.

Game Stats: 2 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble with a recovery

Stock Up: Cashius Howell

Howell continues to elevate his draft profile, adding another sack to bring his season total to eight. He was a constant presence in DJ Lagway’s pocket and, alongside Hayes, ranked among the SEC’s highest-rated defenders in Week 7. His eight sacks leave him just half a sack shy of the national lead. Double-digit sacks are well within reach as he continues to dismantle offensive lines.

Game Stats: 1 tackle, 1 TFL, 1 sack, 2 QB hits

Stock Up: Tyreek Chappell

Chappell’s tenure at A&M has been marred by injuries, but his elite coverage skills remain undeniable. Saturday marked one of his strongest outings of the season, allowing just three catches for 18 yards against a talented Florida receiving corps. He also contributed to the pass rush with timely blitzes that disrupted Lagway’s rhythm and led to a sack.

Game Stats: 5 tackles, 0.5 TFL, 2 pass breakups

Stock Down: Randy Bond

Special teams have shown improvement as the season progresses, but field goals beyond 40 yards remain a concern. Bond is 8-for-13 on the season, and his 43-yard miss on Saturday was his second miss heading into halftime—costing the Aggies a chance to extend their lead. While Bond has a powerful leg, his inconsistency could prove costly in a tight game down the stretch.

Game Stats: 2-for-3, missed 43-yard field goal

Stock Down: Marcel Reed

This isn’t a knock on Reed’s overall trajectory—he’s clearly improved since last season—but he still needs to trust his reads and make smarter decisions with the ball. Reed has the tools to elevate A&M to elite status. Despite their No. 4 national ranking, even Coach Elko would agree that Reed is on the cusp of becoming one of the SEC’s top quarterbacks if he can find more consistency.

Game Stats: 16/26 completions, 234 passing yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception / 7 rushes, 37 yards, 1 touchdown

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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: A&M football stock report following Week 7, 34-17 win over Florida