Texas A&M WR blames 'slow start' on the lack of explosive plays

Texas A&M's 31-21 home loss to Kentucky was a team loss, as the defense failed to stop the Wildcats' run game in the second half, opening up the play-action pass for QB Kenny Minchey. However, starting quarterback Marcel Reed completed 53% of his passes for 236 yards, one touchdown (one rushing score), and two interceptions, and did not complete a pass beyond 20 yards, so he took the bulk of the blame.

On Tuesday, star wide receiver Mario Craver and linebacker Daymion Sanford defended their quarterback, citing his improvement this spring based on the film we received last month, along with his performance in the season-opening win vs. Missouri State. His play has since declined, especially after throwing for just 163 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception in the Aggies' 48-20 win over Arizona State.

Craver, who reeled in a career-high 11 receptions against the Wildcats, does not feel that first-year OC Holmon Wiggins should receive much, or any, blame, as receivers were regularly open throughout the game, while the run game also found success early before Kentucky took over in the second half.

Texas A&M's offense ranks 75th entering Saturday's Week 4 road trip against LSU, while Marcel Reed's passing game ranks 74th and has only connected on a handful of explosive 20-plus-yard plays, which has hindered the Aggies' ability to start games off with more success, which Mario Craver is well aware of.

"Honestly, it's just a slow start. We know that this offense has the capability of doing what we did last year. I don't think it's the playcaller, I don't think it's anything we just have to execute better as a team," Craver said.

For the Aggies to "execute" better, starting on Saturday, running the ball, including designed runs for Marcel Reed, will open up the passing game and allow Reed to make more accurate throws outside the pocket, which has been his bread and butter since taking over as the starter.

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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M WR blames 'slow start' on the lack of explosive plays