Texas A&M a Longshot to Make the College Football Playoff, According to ESPN's FPI
Texas A&M is coming off a disappointing 2022 season, in which they finished 8-4 and missed the College Football Playoff for the second consecutive year. However, the Aggies are expected to be back in contention for a national championship in 2023.
Returning Talent
Texas A&M returns a number of key players from last season's team, including quarterback Max Johnson, wide receiver Devon Achane, and defensive end Micheal Clemons. Johnson is a talented quarterback who can make all the throws, Achane is a dynamic running back who can break off big plays, and Clemons is a pass-rushing specialist who can get to the quarterback.
Newcomers
Texas A&M also added a number of talented newcomers this offseason, including wide receiver Evan Stewart, running back Trelon Smith, and defensive tackle Walter Nolen. Stewart is a five-star recruit who is considered to be one of the top wide receivers in the country, Smith is a transfer from Oklahoma, and Nolen is a five-star recruit who is considered to be one of the top defensive tackles in the country.
Schedule
Texas A&M's schedule in 2023 is challenging, but it is not impossible. The Aggies will face a number of ranked opponents, including Alabama, LSU, and Arkansas. However, they also have some favorable matchups, such as home games against New Mexico, ULM, and South Carolina.
Prediction
ESPN's FPI gives Texas A&M a 1.3% chance of making the College Football Playoff in 2023. This means that the Aggies are a longshot to make the playoff, but it is not impossible. If Texas A&M can stay healthy and avoid any major upsets, they will have a chance to make the playoff.
Conclusion
Texas A&M has the talent to be a national championship contender in 2023. However, they will need to stay healthy and avoid any major upsets. If they can do that, they will be in the mix for a national title.
Here are some factors that could affect Texas A&M's season:
- The development of Max Johnson: Johnson is a talented quarterback, but he is still young and developing. He will need to take another step forward in 2023 if Texas A&M wants to be a national championship contender.
- The health of the offensive line: The offensive line is one of the most important positions in football, and Texas A&M's line will need to be healthy in 2023. If the line can stay healthy, it will give Johnson time to throw and Achane room to run.
- The defense: Texas A&M's defense was a liability in 2022. The Aggies will need to improve their defense in 2023 if they want to be a national championship contender.
Overall, Texas A&M has the talent to be a national championship contender in 2023. However, there are a few factors that could affect their season. If Johnson can take another step forward, the offensive line can stay healthy, and the defense can improve, the Aggies will be in the mix for a national title.