Week 11 Preview: Top Freshmen Shine, Aggies Improve Ahead of 2025
This week’s college football preview highlights significant matchups, showcasing emerging freshmen talents and teams poised for improvement as they approach the 2025 season.
Key Matchups in Week 11
Week 11 of the college football season brings intense action, particularly in the Big 12. Notable ranked teams include:
- No. 7 BYU faces No. 8 Texas Tech
- No. 3 Texas A&M takes on No. 22 Missouri
- No. 9 Oregon will play against No. 20 Iowa
The BYU vs. Texas Tech game is particularly crucial, as it may serve as a preview for the Big 12 title game. Both teams are aiming for playoff positions, making this matchup critical for their chances.
Texas A&M’s 2025 Season Outlook
Texas A&M has shown marked improvement this season without major schematic changes. The Aggies have bolstered their wide receiver corps, significantly enhancing their offensive capabilities. Key players include:
- Wide receivers Mario Craver and KC Concepcion
- Quarterback Marcel Reed
Craver has emerged as a standout with 455 yards after the catch, ranking second in the FBS. The Aggies have averaged 2.35 yards per rush before contact, the third-best in the SEC.
Noteworthy Freshmen to Watch
Several freshmen athletes have made significant impacts this season:
- Bear Bachmeier (QB, BYU): Leading BYU, he has accumulated 2,101 all-purpose yards and 20 total touchdowns.
- Mason Heintschel (QB, Pitt): Heintschel has thrown for 1,547 yards and 12 touchdowns since taking over as starter.
- Caleb Hawkins (RB, North Texas): He leads freshman running backs with 744 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns.
- Graceson Littleton (CB, Texas): A pivotal player in Texas’ secondary, he has tallied two interceptions and 33 tackles.
- Malachi Toney (WR, Miami): With 632 receiving yards, he stands out as one of the top freshmen in college football.
These freshmen are crucial to their teams’ strategies as they vie for playoff contention.
Predictions and Challenges for BYU and Texas Tech
For BYU to secure a victory, maintaining composure and avoiding turnovers will be crucial. Texas Tech, facing pressure, must protect quarterback Behren Morton and finish drives effectively to improve their scoring opportunities.
Coaches’ Insights
Coaches are vocal about the challenges and expectations for their teams. Texas A&M’s Mike Elko remarked on the urgency of maintaining their unbeaten status, stating, “This season, every single Saturday is about defending what we’ve earned.”
These insights set the stage for a thrilling week of college football. With high stakes on the horizon, fans can expect standout performances from both seasoned players and fresh talents.
