Texas A&M DC Jay Bateman discusses star LB's likely return in the CFP

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It’s game week, as Texas A&M (11-1, 7-1 SEC) is set to host Miami (10-2) in the first round of the College Football Playoff on Saturday afternoon. During Tuesday’s practice, it was revealed that every injured player, including star running back Le’Veon Moss, who had missed the last six games with an ankle injury, was back on the field, looking healthy and ready to make his return.

However, Moss wasn’t the only key veteran who is nearly guaranteed to return on Saturday, as senior linebacker Scooby Williams, who missed all but five games during the regular season, was moving laterally and going through drills at full speed. Williams is vital to Texas A&M’s defense, as his size, speed, and instincts as a run defender were sorely missed during the latter half of the season, despite the team losing only one game.

After practice, offensive coordinator Collin Klein and defensive coordinator Jay Bateman spoke to the media. While both coaches will leave the program for new positions in 2026, they’ll stay with the team through the CFP. Bateman, who coached Williams during his Florida days as the Gators’ linebackers coach, is more than pleased to have the senior back in the lineup.

“The good news is, I think, health wise, you know you guys were out there today, you saw him running around. I think he’ll be able to help us this weekend.”

Does this mean Williams will start? That’s up for debate, especially given Daymion Sanford’s ascendance in his absence. Still, against Miami’s physical run game and as a pass-rush threat against quarterback Carson Beck, I can see Williams on an elevated snap count to give the defense a boost in key situations.

Texas A&M will host Miami on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. with coverage on ABC and ESPN.

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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M DC Jay Bateman anticipates LB Scooby Williams will return

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