Eli Drinkwitz has seen first-hand in preparations for Texas A&M why the Aggies have found success lately.

He explained on the SEC coaches media teleconference on Wednesday.

“Coach Elko does a really good job playing great defense,” Drinkwitz said. “… He does a really good job disguising his blitzes. He was able to get Alabama with bringing overload pressures. … He has a multiplicity of schemes. … Offensively, it starts with their 2 running backs. … Jalen Wydermyer is always open just because of his size. Their quarterback is playing at a high level, which is a direct reflection of how good of a coach Jimbo Fisher is.”

Closer to home, Drinkwitz was asked about the Tigers’ recruiting efforts, and shared one of the program’s recruiting hotbeds, St. Louis and East St. Louis.

“We’ve got to do a great job recruiting our borders and our state,” Drinkwitz said. “That particular side of the state has some really good players.”