Texas A&M’s Work Ethic Driving Undefeated Run, Says Linebacker Taurean York

Texas A&M is turning heads in 2025 with an undefeated 9-0 record, including a 6-0 mark in SEC play. The Aggies’ recent 38-17 road victory at Missouri marked their third consecutive win away from College Station and reinforced their position as the last undefeated team in the conference.

Linebacker Taurean York says preparation is key to the team’s success. Even after returning from Missouri, York was reviewing film for the team’s next opponent, South Carolina. “Let’s just say I was watching South Carolina on the plane ride back from Missouri,” he told reporters Tuesday, per 247Sports.

York credits his personal drive to his upbringing. “My dad works two jobs, and he sleeps in his work clothes,” he said. “I get that work ethic from him.” His commitment reflects the larger culture head coach Mike Elko is cultivating in College Station, emphasizing discipline, accountability, and constant preparation.

With only a few regular-season games remaining — two conference matchups and a non-conference contest against Samford — Texas A&M is closing in on both an SEC title game berth and a spot in the College Football Playoff. Quality wins over Notre Dame, LSU, and Missouri have strengthened their resume and demonstrated their ability to perform on a national stage.

1. Film Study and Defensive Focus

York’s commitment to preparation goes beyond the field. He has been intensely focused on film study, analyzing upcoming opponents and refining his understanding of schemes. His dedication reflects the Aggies’ emphasis on game-day readiness and strategic execution. Coach Elko has also challenged his defense to elevate performance, especially in areas where the team struggled. During the Missouri game, Texas A&M allowed 207 rushing yards, prompting a halftime address aimed at correcting defensive lapses. “I challenged them at halftime,” Elko said. “I challenged both sides of the ball — only one side of the ball responded — that we had to go out and control the line of scrimmage better.” The team’s defensive philosophy under Elko emphasizes discipline, film study, and accountability. Players like York exemplify that approach by taking extra time to prepare, study tendencies, and anticipate opponent strategies. Their effort has contributed to limiting mistakes and maintaining a dominant overall performance through nine games. With a rigorous approach to preparation and continuous self-evaluation, Texas A&M’s defense is becoming one of the cornerstones of their undefeated season.

2. Elko’s Leadership and Team Culture

Mike Elko, in his second season as head coach, has quickly restored Texas A&M to national relevance after the departure of Jimbo Fisher in 2023. His leadership emphasizes both accountability and adaptability, challenging players to meet high standards on and off the field. Elko’s coaching style has fostered a culture of preparation and resilience. By holding players accountable and reinforcing a work-first mentality, he has instilled a mindset that every game matters. York’s film study habits are a direct reflection of that culture, where effort and attention to detail are highly valued. Elko’s influence is visible in the Aggies’ performance against top-tier opponents. The team has already secured significant victories against Notre Dame and LSU, proving they can rise to the occasion against elite competition. By blending strong leadership with player buy-in, Elko has created a program capable of sustaining success deep into the season. Looking ahead, Elko and his staff are focused on ensuring the team finishes the regular season unscathed, balancing on-field performance with continued emphasis on preparation and adaptability.

3. Path to the SEC Title and Playoff

Texas A&M’s remaining schedule presents an opportunity to solidify its national standing. With two SEC matchups and a non-conference game against Samford left, the Aggies are in position to clinch a spot in the conference title game while building a compelling College Football Playoff resume. York and his teammates are acutely aware of the stakes. Every practice, film session, and game plan review is aimed at maintaining their unbeaten record and preparing for increasingly competitive matchups. Their methodical approach underscores the importance of discipline in sustaining high-level performance. The team’s combination of talent, work ethic, and leadership has created a foundation for both immediate and long-term success. If Texas A&M can maintain focus, avoid lapses, and execute consistently, the Aggies could finish the regular season undefeated, an accomplishment that would further cement their status as a national contender. Individual commitment, team culture, and Elko’s guidance will all play pivotal roles as Texas A&M navigates the final stretch of its season and pursues conference and playoff goals.