# Josh Pate Discusses How Mike Elko’s Coaching Could Propel Texas A&M to Reach the SEC Championship
Texas A&M has long been a program with immense potential, boasting top-tier recruiting classes, state-of-the-art facilities, and a passionate fanbase. Yet, despite these advantages, the Aggies have struggled to break through and claim an SEC Championship since joining the conference in 2012. However, with the hiring of Mike Elko as head coach, there is renewed optimism in College Station. Josh Pate, a prominent college football analyst, has weighed in on how Elko’s coaching philosophy and track record could be the missing piece that finally propels Texas A&M to the SEC Championship Game.
## The Elko Effect: A Defensive Mastermind
Mike Elko is no stranger to Texas A&M. From 2018 to 2021, he served as the Aggies’ defensive coordinator under Jimbo Fisher, orchestrating one of the most formidable defenses in the SEC. Under his leadership, Texas A&M’s defense ranked among the nation’s best, finishing in the top 10 in scoring defense in 2020 and 2021. His ability to develop talent was evident, as players like DeMarvin Leal, Antonio Johnson, and Jayden Peevy flourished under his system.
Elko’s defensive acumen was further validated during his tenure as Duke’s head coach. In just two seasons, he transformed a struggling Blue Devils program into a competitive ACC team, leading them to a 9-4 record in 2023—a remarkable turnaround from their 3-9 season prior to his arrival. His success at Duke demonstrated not only his defensive expertise but also his ability to build a winning culture.
Josh Pate has emphasized that Elko’s defensive mindset could be the key to Texas A&M’s success in the SEC. “The SEC is won in the trenches, and Elko understands that better than most,” Pate noted on his show, *Late Kick with Josh Pate*. “His defenses are disciplined, physical, and adaptable—qualities that are essential to competing against the likes of Alabama, Georgia, and LSU.”
## Fixing Texas A&M’s Inconsistency
One of the biggest criticisms of Texas A&M in recent years has been inconsistency. Despite signing historic recruiting classes, including the No. 1 overall class in 2022, the Aggies have failed to maintain momentum in crucial games. Blowout losses to Alabama, LSU, and even Appalachian State in 2022 exposed flaws in both coaching and player development.
Elko’s arrival signals a shift toward stability. Unlike Jimbo Fisher, whose offensive schemes often appeared rigid and predictable, Elko has shown a willingness to adapt. At Duke, he implemented a balanced offensive approach while maintaining defensive dominance. Pate believes this adaptability will be crucial for Texas A&M.
“Elko isn’t married to one system,” Pate explained. “He’s going to evaluate his personnel and put them in the best position to win. That’s something Texas A&M has been missing.”
Additionally, Elko’s emphasis on player development could unlock the potential of Texas A&M’s highly touted recruits. Many of the Aggies’ recent top prospects have underperformed or transferred, raising questions about the program’s ability to cultivate talent. Elko’s track record suggests he can reverse that trend.
## The Importance of Strong Coordinator Hires
While Elko’s defensive expertise is undeniable, his success at Texas A&M will also depend on his offensive coordinator hire. At Duke, he worked with Kevin Johns, who helped engineer a productive offense that complemented the team’s stifling defense. If Elko can bring in an innovative offensive mind—someone who can maximize the talents of quarterback Conner Weigman and a loaded receiving corps—the Aggies could become a well-rounded contender.
Pate has stressed the importance of this hire, stating, “Texas A&M doesn’t need a flashy, high-flying offense to win the SEC. They need an efficient, balanced attack that can control the clock and limit mistakes. If Elko gets the right OC, this team could be dangerous.”
## Navigating the SEC Gauntlet
The path to the SEC Championship is never easy, especially in the loaded SEC West. Alabama remains a powerhouse under Kalen DeBoer, LSU is always explosive under Brian Kelly, and Ole Miss is ascending under Lane Kiffin. Meanwhile, Texas and Oklahoma’s arrival in the SEC adds even more competition.
However, Pate argues that Elko’s coaching style is tailor-made for this environment. “He’s not going to be outworked, and his teams won’t beat themselves,” Pate said. “In a conference where margins are razor-thin, that’s a massive advantage.”
Texas A&M’s 2024 schedule presents both challenges and opportunities. Key matchups against Notre Dame, Florida, Missouri, and LSU will test Elko’s squad early. But if the Aggies can establish an identity—grounded in defense and efficient offense—they could position themselves as a dark horse in the SEC race.
## The X-Factor: Culture Change
Perhaps the most significant impact Elko could have is changing the culture in College Station. Under Fisher, the program often seemed disjointed, with reports of locker room discord and a lack of accountability. Elko, by contrast, is known for his no-nonsense approach and ability to connect with players.
Pate pointed to Duke’s rapid improvement as evidence of Elko’s cultural influence. “That Duke team played hard every single snap, even when they were overmatched,” he said. “If he can instill that same mentality at Texas A&M, the sky’s the limit.”
## Conclusion: A Realistic Path to the SEC Championship
While Texas A&M may not be the favorite in 2024, Josh Pate’s analysis suggests that Mike Elko’s coaching could accelerate the Aggies’ rise. His defensive expertise, adaptability, and focus on culture could address many of the program’s longstanding issues.
If Elko can develop Texas A&M’s talent, make smart coordinator hires, and navigate the brutal SEC schedule, the Aggies could find themselves in Atlanta sooner than expected. As Pate summarized, “Don’t sleep on Texas A&M. With Elko at the helm, they’ve got a real shot.”
For a program hungry for its first SEC title, that’s all the hope they need.
