While many were eager to write off Kevin Sumlin following the opening season loss to UCLA, the Aggies have rebounded well and currently sit 3-1 on the season after the big win over Arkansas last weekend.

Texas A&M looks to keep that momentum moving forward at home against a dangerous South Carolina opponent this weekend.

Sumlin spoke during the SEC’s weekly Coaches Teleconference Wednesday.

Here’s a summary of what the Texas A&M coach had to say on the call:

  • “Got another challenge this week, it will be great to get back home. Our guys are excited for this game. The excitement has been there at practice.”
  • How has the South Carolina defense improved this year? “We had a tough time scoring points on them last year. The defensive staff has done a nice job. They are not going to beat themselves. They are physical, they’ve been solid in their approach and the way they coach defense.”
  • Thoughts on South Carolina QB Jake Bentley? “I think he’s a guy that can run it when he has to, can make all the throws. He’s improving, and that’s a little scary. He’s a bigger guy, so when he takes off, he’s tough to bring down.”
  • What is it like to be in the grind of the SEC? “You get used to it, that’s what you do. We don’t practice Sunday, the players have it off but the coaches are here. We break down the previous game, both players and coaches and it’s about correcting our mistakes. Sunday afternoon, Sunday evening, we move on to the next opponent. Win or lose, you have to be able to put that thing to bed Sunday but be honest with what needs work.”
  • How does Christian Kirk excel in so many areas? “I think it started in high school. He was more of a running back as a sophomore in high school. He had to work on his receiving ability when he got here, he was always a good screen guy but now he’s an all-around receiver. He wants to be great and I think he’s one of those guys that understands his strengths and his deficiencies and he’s worked on those things.”
  • Do you ever worry about limiting his snap count? “He’s gotten off the field more this year than in the past and I think he’s more explosive because of that. We are very cognizant of his pitch count on Saturday’s. He’s all or nothing every snap and that takes its toll, too. We have a good feel for when he’s ready to go. He doesn’t like to sit around and watch but he’s starting to become like a coach on the sidelines. His pitch count is down this year, we are monitoring that.”