James Coley evaluates Texas A&M's deep passing potential, how it could develop

Texas A&M was home to one of the SEC’s top defenses last season, getting a majority of their wins thanks to the unit. At times, the offense struggled to produce anything and it’s something head coach Jimbo Fisher is looking to change. He wants more big plays from his offense, especially in the passing game.

Offensive coordinator James Coley evaluated how the deep passing game could develop for the Aggies this season. He said some of the results Fisher has had in the past proves it can be done while also citing some of the speed at the skill positions. Coley seemingly believes in his unit heading into the 2022 season.

“Doing what we’re doing in practice,” Coley said. “I think that we have speed on our team. Everybody’s said this is the fastest team we’ve had since Coach (Fisher) has been here. This is part of it — he’s led college football in explosive plays as a play caller and head coach before so he knows schematically how to get after defenses. We got guys now that can stretch the field so he’s accurate with what he wants to do.”

Ainias Smith is the biggest name returning for the Aggies, recently being cleared of some off-the-field issues. He will be back on the field looking to provide plenty of big plays for Fisher during the 2022 season. However, after him, there is some uncertainty.

Texas A&M made a huge move at wide receiver with their 2022 recruiting class, signing two five-star prospects. Evan Stewart was considered a Five-Star Plus+ prospect and is expected to start in his first season in College Station. Chris Marshall will contribute as well, being one of the more raw prospects in all of college football.

Another factor for these wide receivers is whoever is throwing the ball. Texas A&M currently has a three-man competition ongoing for the starting quarterback. Max Johnson is viewed as the favorite after transferring from LSU, while Haynes King and Conner Weigman are looking to impress during fall camp.

Texas A&M averaged just over 200 passing yards per game last year, with Zach Calzada leading the way at quarterback. Both Fisher and Coley will have to believe not only have they upgraded there but also at wide receiver. Getting their quality running backs involved will do nothing but help as well. The Aggies will need to take a step forward in the deep play department to have a real shot of competing in the SEC West.