ESPN FPI predicts Texas A&M vs. Arizona State in Week 2

Texas A&M's 50-0 shutout victory over Missouri State officially kicked off coach Mike Elko's third season at the helm, and while the newly formed starting offensive line struggled in the first half, Elko and OL coach Adam Cushing made the necessary adjustments that led to a much better performance in the second half.

Led by A&M's elite defensive effort, which limited the Bears to 67 total yards, including 30 passing yards, starting quarterback Marcel Reed was also impressive, completing 70% of his passes for 233 yards and 2 touchdowns, while the O-line improvement paved the way for 236 rushing yards and three scores.

On Saturday, Texas A&M will host Arizona State for the first time since facing the Sun Devils back in 2015, when the Aggies prevailed 38-17, and after multiple coaching changes, Mike Elko will face Kenny Dillingham for the first time, as both coaches have led their respective programs to the College Football Playoffs during their second seasons at the helm.

On paper, this will be a game decided in the trenches, specifically Texas A&M's defensive line vs. Arizona State's shaky O-line, knowing that A&M's deep secondary should be able to prevent transfer quarterback Cutter Boley from matching his Week 1 performance. However, Marcel Reed and the Aggies' deep wide receiver room must produce more explosive plays after an average showing against Missouri State, while also establishing the run.

ESPN's FPI prediction gives Texas A&M an 88.6% chance of defeating the Sun Devils, while the visitors have an 11.4% shot at an upset. Opening as a 14-14.5-point favorite, it's fair to say the pressure is on the Aggies to protect home field and play a clean game, especially in the trenches.

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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: ESPN FPI predicts Texas A&M vs. Arizona State in Week 2