Team White Triumphs in Texas A&M Spring Game: Marcel Reed Shines
Under the warm Texas sun, the annual Texas A&M spring football game delivered a showcase of grit, talent, and leadership as Team White edged out Team Maroon in a competitive and high-energy contest. The exhibition, meant to give fans a glimpse of what to expect in the fall, turned into a statement game for sophomore quarterback Marcel Reed, who commanded Team White’s offense with poise and authority.
Reed, a transfer from Ole Miss, demonstrated why coaches and fans have been buzzing about his potential. Completing 18 of 26 passes for 235 yards and two touchdowns, he looked every bit the leader Texas A&M hopes will drive their offense forward in the upcoming season. His pocket presence was mature, and his ability to extend plays on the ground added another dimension to the White team’s dynamic attack.
From the opening drive, Reed took control. He led Team White down the field with surgical precision, connecting on key throws to junior wideout Noah Thomas and freshman standout Ja’Kobi Holland. A 27-yard strike to Thomas in the corner of the end zone capped off the opening possession, igniting the crowd and setting the tone.
But Team Maroon, led by returning starter Conner Weigman, wasn’t about to roll over. Weigman threw for 198 yards and a touchdown, keeping his squad in the game with crisp short throws and smart decision-making. Still, it was the aggressive play of Team White’s defense that made the difference. Senior linebacker Chris Russell Jr. anchored the defense with nine tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble, putting consistent pressure on Maroon’s backfield.
The defensive highlight of the game came in the third quarter when sophomore cornerback Bravion Rogers jumped a quick slant and returned an interception 42 yards to the house, stretching Team White’s lead to two scores. That momentum swing proved critical, as Maroon struggled to regain their rhythm offensively.
Head coach Mike Elko praised the intensity and execution on both sides but reserved special commendation for Reed. “What you saw out there is what we’ve been seeing in practice,” Elko said. “Marcel has that calm under pressure, that leadership quality you can’t coach. He’s earned respect in the locker room.”
The offensive line, often a question mark in recent seasons, also impressed for Team White, giving Reed ample protection and opening running lanes for junior back Amari Daniels, who rushed for 76 yards on 12 carries.
While the scoreboard will reset before the fall, the message from this spring game was clear: Team White — and Marcel Reed in particular — has laid a strong foundation. With plenty of depth, an aggressive defense, and newfound stability at quarterback, Texas A&M fans have real reason to look ahead with optimism.
As the final whistle blew and players from both squads gathered at midfield, there was a palpable sense of anticipation. If this spring performance is a preview of what’s to come, the Aggies could be a serious contender in the SEC this season.
