aggieswire
Through five games, Texas A&M's defensive line has struggled to generate consistent pressure, managing only five sacks as a unit. However, Saturday's 34-7 win over Arkansas offered a glimpse of progress, with sophomore edge rusher Marco Jones recording a sack and six pressures. Jones and Northwestern transfer Anto Saka are expected to elevate their play, as the issue appears to stem from scheme and accountability rather than a lack of talent.
While Jones deserves recognition, the most reliable defensive lineman outside of senior defensive end T.J. Searcy has been sophomore Landon Rink. Operating as a reserve defensive tackle, Rink has posted 12 tackles, nine stops, and earned Pro Football Focus grades of 85.3, 80.9, and 74.0 against Missouri State, Kentucky, and LSU, respectively, including an elite run-defense grade of 85.4.
In five games, Rink has logged 90 snaps and has increasingly earned more playing time as a vital part of the interior rotation. The son of a former Texas football player, Rink chose Texas A&M over the Longhorns and other programs, believing his NFL development would be accelerated under head coach Mike Elko. So far, that bet is paying off.
Key Analysis
During Monday's press conference, Elko commended Rink after the sophomore made his first start of the season against Arkansas. The head coach noted that Rink is gradually meeting the high expectations placed upon him, particularly as a run defender. "He continues to get better, continues to grow," Elko said. "He's a young kid we had a lot of expectations for this year. He earned the right to go out there with the first group on Saturday."
After an 0-2 start in SEC play, Texas A&M's season has been a rollercoaster, but Elko isn't planning drastic lineup changes. Instead, Rink and freshman running back KJ Edwards, who impressed in Saturday's win, are expected to maintain significant roles, especially with No. 14 Missouri looming next Saturday.
Originally reported by aggieswire.