Texas A&M Faces Key Absences in Lone Star Showdown Against Texas

No. 3 Texas A&M (11-0, 7-0 SEC) will enter the highly anticipated Lone Star Showdown against No. 16 Texas (8-3, 5-2 SEC) on Friday night without the services of four players. This matchup marks the second consecutive season these rivals face off, but the stakes are particularly high for the Aggies, who have already secured a spot in the College Football Playoff regardless of the outcome. A victory would also guarantee their place in the SEC Championship Game.

In contrast, Texas seeks to finish the regular season with a 9-3 record. While this will not qualify them for the College Football Playoff, it provides a vital opportunity to restore momentum following a challenging season.

Injury Report Highlights Key Absences

Texas A&M’s roster will notably miss senior running back Le’Veon Moss, who has been sidelined for five consecutive games due to an ankle injury. During the past weeks, head coach Mike Elko mentioned that Moss might still return for the regular season. However, the final injury report confirmed that Moss, along with senior linebacker Scooby Williams, senior safety Bryce Anderson, and freshman safety Rashad Johnson Jr., will not participate in the game against the Longhorns.

In addition to the Aggies’ absences, Texas sophomore linebacker Ty’Anthony Smith will also miss the first half of the game after being penalized for targeting in Texas’s recent 52-37 victory over Arkansas. Meanwhile, junior linebacker Anthony Hill remains questionable for the matchup, although indications from previous injury reports suggest he is likely to play.

Despite these setbacks, Texas A&M fans can take comfort in the return of wide receiver Mario Craver and running back Rueben Owens, both of whom are healthy and ready to contribute in the starting lineup.

The Lone Star Showdown promises to be an exciting clash, with both teams motivated to secure a win. Texas A&M’s depth will be tested as they aim to maintain their unbeaten record while Texas strives to close out their season on a high note.