Chris Doering: Mike Elko brings his ‘physical’ mentality to Texas A&M

College football is just around the corner, and at SEC Media Days 2024, we caught up with SEC Network analyst Chris Doering. The legendary Florida Gators receiver talked about how he sees A&M in its first year under Mike Elko, as well as other opponents within the league.

Important notes from the interview with Chris Doering

• I’m really excited about the Texas A&M team this season. Coach Mike Elko has been there before and knows the culture. What he accomplished with that defense his first time and what he accomplished at Duke… He just brings a physical mentality that I think will fit well with this A&M team. Especially when you’re playing away, you have to play physical and I think he’ll bring that.
• I’m so excited Conner Weigman to come back and it almost feels like a brand new start. He was gone for so long last year. It feels like forever since we last saw him play. I’ve heard a lot about him being a first-round quarterback in the NFL Draft next spring. I’m also excited to see what he can do in this offense. He can make some really big plays.
• We asked Weigman to play as a freshman and I think we often remember some of the mistakes and growing pains he went through. All of that will benefit him. When you get an injury that ends the season and you can’t play with your teammates, you’re really grateful to be able to do what we do. It also creates a greater sense of urgency and you realize you can only play for a limited time.
• I think Weigman will benefit from the adversity he’s been through. He’ll benefit from the injury and the time off, and I think he’ll play with real intent and determination this season.
• I think it’s possible that Florida could be better, but that won’t necessarily translate into a higher win percentage. I don’t think Billy Napier will necessarily be in the firing line.
• I think you have to understand that there is still work to be done and progress to be made, even if it’s not a complete, disorganized disaster. I think there are a lot of things to be excited about. I think Florida will win seven games this year. I really do. While I don’t think there’s a certain number he has to hit to make it look like a success, I think it looks a lot better than last year.