College Station : Texas A&M Football’s Coach Mike Elko Has Won Coach of the Year Award …see more

College Station: Texas A&M Football’s Coach Mike Elko Wins Coach of the Year Award

College Station, TX — The Texas A&M football program is celebrating a major achievement as Head Coach Mike Elko has been officially named Coach of the Year, following an impressive season that has reignited the Aggies’ national relevance. The award is a testament to Elko’s leadership, strategic brilliance, and the culture shift he has brought to College Station in a remarkably short time.

A Season to Remember

Mike Elko’s recognition comes after guiding Texas A&M through a breakthrough season marked by high-profile wins, a disciplined defense, and a renewed competitive edge in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Under his leadership, the Aggies pulled off one of the season’s biggest upsets—a thrilling 41–40 victory over No. 8 Notre Dame on the road, showcasing Elko’s ability to prepare his team for the brightest lights and biggest moments.

That win helped earn him national attention and weekly honors like the Dodd Trophy Coach of the Week, a precursor to this full-season Coach of the Year distinction. Elko’s steady hand and strategic prowess allowed the Aggies to outperform preseason expectations and compete toe-to-toe with top-tier programs across the country.

From Defensive Guru to Program Builder

Elko’s journey to this point is a story of constant progression. Once known primarily as a defensive mastermind, his transition to head coach has been seamless. After a successful stint as Texas A&M’s defensive coordinator under Jimbo Fisher, Elko went on to serve as head coach at Duke in 2022, where he earned ACC Coach of the Year honors. He returned to Aggieland in 2023 with a clear mission: restore pride, identity, and consistency to A&M football.

That mission is now yielding results—both on the field and in national perception.

More Than Just a Trophy

Winning Coach of the Year is not just about wins and losses—it speaks to program culture, leadership, and vision. Elko has cultivated a team that plays tough, smart, and together. His emphasis on player accountability, work ethic, and fundamentals has transformed the locker room and inspired confidence in the fanbase.

This award also positions Texas A&M as a serious contender not just in the SEC, but nationally. It’s a signal to recruits, alumni, and competitors alike: the Aggies are building something special under Mike Elko.

As expectations rise, one thing is certain—Coach Elko’s era at Texas A&M is off to a championship-caliber start.