The 2025 college football season kicks off with a highly anticipated matchup between the No. 19 Texas A&M Aggies and the UTSA Roadrunners. Scheduled for Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 6:05 PM CT, this game marks the third-ever meeting between the two programs, with Texas A&M leading the series 2-0. The Aggies are eager to start the season strong under second-year head coach Mike Elko, while UTSA aims to make a statement on the road at Kyle Field.
Team Overview
Texas A&M Aggies
Under the leadership of Coach Mike Elko, the Aggies are looking to build upon a solid foundation from the previous season. Quarterback Marcel Reed, a redshirt sophomore from Nashville, Tennessee, is set to lead the offense. Reed showcased his potential last season, earning SEC Freshman of the Week honors twice and the Davey O’Brien National QB of the Week award. With a year of experience under his belt, Reed is poised to take the next step in his development.
The Aggies’ offense is further bolstered by running back Le’Veon Moss, who is expected to play a pivotal role in both the ground game and as a receiving threat out of the backfield. The receiving corps, revamped through the transfer portal, will look to provide Reed with reliable targets throughout the season.
UTSA Roadrunners
Coach Jeff Traylor’s UTSA Roadrunners enter the season with high expectations. Quarterback Owen McCown returns after a stellar 2024 campaign, where he threw for over 3,400 yards. McCown’s experience and playmaking ability make him a formidable threat to any defense. However, the Roadrunners face challenges on the defensive side, as they return no starters from the previous season and will rely heavily on transfers to fill key roles.
Despite these concerns, UTSA’s offense remains potent, and they will look to exploit any weaknesses in Texas A&M’s defense. The Roadrunners’ ability to execute on both sides of the ball will be crucial in this matchup.
Game Preview
The Aggies’ home-field advantage at Kyle Field, coupled with their experienced roster, positions them as the favorites in this contest. However, UTSA’s explosive offense, led by McCown, has the potential to challenge Texas A&M’s defense. The key to victory for the Aggies will be controlling the line of scrimmage and limiting big plays from the Roadrunners.
For UTSA, establishing a balanced offensive attack and finding success on early downs will be critical. The Roadrunners must also find ways to generate pressure on Reed to disrupt the Aggies’ offensive rhythm.
How to Watch
The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN, with Anish Shroff, Andre Ware, and Paul Carcaterra providing commentary. For those unable to watch on television, the game can be streamed online via the ESPN app or website. Additionally, fans can listen to live coverage on the Texas A&M Sports Network, available on 1620 AM/94.5 FM locally, SiriusXM Channel 81, or through the Varsity Network app for streaming audio.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Marcel Reed vs. UTSA’s Defense: Reed’s development as a dual-threat quarterback will be tested against a UTSA defense that is rebuilding and unproven.
- Le’Veon Moss vs. Roadrunners’ Front Seven: Moss’s ability to establish the run will be crucial in setting up play-action opportunities for Reed.
- Owen McCown vs. Aggies’ Secondary: McCown’s deep ball accuracy and decision-making will be key in challenging Texas A&M’s defensive backs.
- Coaching Strategies: Coach Elko’s defensive schemes and Coach Traylor’s offensive playcalling will play significant roles in the game’s outcome.
Final Thoughts
The Texas A&M vs. UTSA game promises to be an exciting start to the 2025 college football season. With both teams bringing high-powered offenses and dynamic playmakers, fans can expect a thrilling matchup. As the Aggies look to assert their dominance in the SEC and the Roadrunners aim to prove themselves on the national stage, this game will set the tone for the rest of the season.
Post-Game Coverage
Following the game, comprehensive coverage will be available, including game highlights, player interviews, and expert analysis. Fans can visit the official Texas A&M Athletics website or follow the team’s social media channels for the latest updates and insights.