'I believe in Marcel': Texas A&M HC confident in Reed despite inconsistency

Despite one of the worst performances of his collegiate career in Texas A&M's Week 3 loss to Kentucky, head coach Mike Elko still believes quarterback Marcel Reed can help the Aggies turn the page and get back on track.

Media members and those around the football program talked all offseason about Reed's improvement and progression as a passer, sparking excitement across Aggieland about what the offense could look like in 2026. However, Reed's poor outing against the Wildcats was a major setback.

The junior gunslinger threw for 236 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions, while rushing for 80 yards and one rushing touchdown. Reed's untimely picks and inaccuracy, especially on multiple crucial fourth-down attempts, put Texas A&M out of the game. According to TexAgs analyst and insider Luke Evangelist, Reed was 2-of-13 in passes of 15 yards or more, with five of the 10 offensive drives ending in a turnover on downs.

Elko didn't shy away from discussing the improvements that must be made with the team moving forward, but he also expressed his confidence in Reed as Texas A&M's quarterback in 2026.

Mike Elko: "I have a lot of confidence in Marcel. I believe in Marcel, and Marcel is our quarterback."

— TexAgs (@TexAgs) September 21, 2026

The bottom line? Reed must improve sooner rather than later. One way to do that involves allowing him to scramble and make plays happen with his feet. While he may be an inconsistent passer, Reed is one of the most athletic and dangerous quarterbacks in the country when he scrambles. Dating back to the end of last season, it felt like Elko and company were trying to prove Reed's potential as a passer, while completely ignoring his athleticism and how dangerous he can be on the run.

We will know more about where Reed and this team stand in 2026 on Saturday, as the Aggies take a road trip to Death Valley to face No. 10 LSU.

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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: 'I believe in Marcel': Texas A&M HC confident in Reed despite inconsistency