Texas A&M HC Mike Elko names his 'players of the game' vs Samford

No. 3 Texas A&M (11-0, 7-0 SEC) took care of business in Week 13, defeating Samford (1-11) 48-0 behind starting quarterback Marcel Reed's three touchdowns in the first half, but with the Aggies headed to Austin (TX) to take on the Texas Longhorns this Friday, head coach Mike Elko opted to rest his starters for the entire second half of Saturday's win.

On Monday, during Elko's pre-game press conference, the second-year head coach announced his weekly "players of the game," which features backup tackle Robert Bourdon, freshman edge Marco Jones, junior running back Amari Daniels, and freshman defensive lineman Landon Rink, who was also recognized for his blocked kick that kept the shutout intact.

Robert Bourdon played 26 snaps and earned a 67.5 pass protection grade per Pro Football Focus, and with senior left tackle Trey Zuhn off to the NFL next season, the Tennessee native will be an essential piece of the rotation next season, possessing the size and athleticism to become a starting tackle in the near future.

Amari Daniels' career high of 106 rushing yards proved that the junior deserves to see the field against the Longhorns, but further demonstrates the depth in the backfield, especially with Le'Veon Moss sidelined for the past five games.

On defense, Marco Jones, who could replace senior edge Cashius Howell next season, recorded a team-high seven tackles. At the same time, Landon Rink, who is one of the strongest freshmen in the country, looked the part as a run defender.

This game was all about getting younger players more playing time before the end of the season, which Mike Elko and his staff accomplished from start to finish.

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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M HC Mike Elko names his players of the game vs. Samford