Mike Elko on Texas A&M's Undefeated Season, Brian Kelly's Firing & Heisman Contenders

Spooktober Shenanigans and Football Recap

• 🎃 The episode kicks off with a humorous segment about the hosts' Spooktober costumes, with Taylor Lewan admitting he dropped the ball this year.
• 🏈 The conversation quickly shifts to football, starting with the firing of Brian Kelly from LSU following a significant loss to Texas A&M.

Coaching Carousel and Program Building

• 🔄 The discussion touches on the numerous coaching vacancies in college football, highlighting LSU, Florida, and Penn State as prominent openings.
• 📉 Baylor's struggles are discussed, with the team facing a difficult job market for a new head coach after extending their current one.
• 💡 Coach Mike Elko of Texas A&M joins the show, emphasizing a 'blue-collar work ethic' to combat entitlement and build a strong program.

Texas A&M's Success and Culture

• 🌟 Elko discusses the Aggies' undefeated 8-0 season, attributing their success to instilling a strong work ethic and focusing on process over external validation.
• 🤝 He highlights his strong partnership with Athletic Director Trev Alberts, appreciating his football background and shared vision for Texas A&M.
• 🗣️ Elko addresses the 'rat poison' of external hype and expectations, stressing the importance of avoiding noise and maintaining a one-game-at-a-time mentality.

Quarterback Play and Heisman Buzz

• 🚀 Elko praises quarterback Marcel Reed for his significant improvement, highlighting his ability to beat defenses both in and out of the pocket.
• 🏆 The conversation touches on Reed's Heisman Trophy contention, with the hosts expressing support for his candidacy.
• 🏈 Other college football storylines include Vanderbilt's surprising success, South Carolina's close games, and the competitive nature of the SEC.

NFL Week 8 and Coaching Philosophy

• 🏈 Greg Olsen joins to discuss NFL Week 8, including the Falcons' inconsistency, the Bills' dominant run game, and the Patriots' surprising performance with Drake May.
• 🏈 The discussion delves into offensive schemes, the resurgence of under-center play, and the importance of a strong run game.
• 🏈 The Cowboys' defensive struggles are analyzed, with the team's high-powered offense being undermined by a historically poor defense.
• 🎙️ Elko reflects on his coaching journey, emphasizing humility and appreciation for opportunities, from his early days at Stony Brook to his current success.