Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko has issued an apology for remarks made during his post-match press conference on Saturday. The coach had referred to the independent fan website TexAgs and its associated online community as a "cesspool" following a 27-6 loss to Missouri.
Elko addressed the controversy during his weekly media briefing on Monday, stating that his original comments were made in the heat of the moment. He expressed clear regret regarding the phrasing he used and the subsequent impact of his words.
The coach emphasised his appreciation for the Texas A&M fanbase, clarifying that his remarks were not intended to disparage the supporters as a whole. He maintained that he holds a strong professional relationship with TexAgs co-owner Billy Liucci.
"I regret the way it was taken. I regret the way it came out. I regret the way it ran," Elko said. "That certainly was never my intention. And certainly, throughout the course of that interview, at no point ever did I lend any blame to anything other than myself."
The initial comments were prompted by a question regarding the concerns of Aggies supporters following the team's poor performance. Elko had attempted to distinguish between the general fanbase and the criticism found on social media platforms.
Billy Liucci, who was present at Monday's press conference, had previously described Elko's comments as a "wildly unnecessary misstep" on social media. TexAgs is a prominent independent site that provides daily coverage and hosts a large subscriber message board.
The Aggies are currently experiencing a difficult season, holding a 3-3 overall record with a 1-3 standing in SEC play. The team has struggled significantly on the offensive side of the ball, scoring only six points in each of their last two matches.
Quarterback Marcel Reed has faced challenges leading the offence, currently ranking 15th among SEC starters in passing yards per game. The team has recorded six passing touchdowns and six interceptions during the current campaign.
Elko acknowledged that the team is in a difficult position and accepted full responsibility for the recent results. He noted that he is the primary person accountable for the team's current struggles and their inability to perform at a higher level.
In an effort to address the team's tactical issues, Elko confirmed he has delegated defensive play-calling duties to defensive coordinator Lyle Hemphill. The head coach intends to transition into a broader CEO-style role to better oversee all aspects of the programme.
Elko admitted that his previous attempt to manage play-calling while overseeing the team had been detrimental. He stated that he was trying to handle too many responsibilities simultaneously, which hindered the team's overall execution.
The Aggies entered the season with high expectations, having been ranked No. 8 in the preseason AP Top 25 poll. This followed an 11-2 season in 2025, which included the programme's first appearance in the College Football Playoff.
However, the team has suffered consecutive losses to Kentucky, LSU, and Missouri. These results have placed significant pressure on the coaching staff and raised concerns regarding the team's prospects for the remainder of the season.
Elko described the current situation as a moment to return to the drawing board. He stressed the need for the coaching staff to find more creative and efficient solutions to improve the team's offensive output.
The Aggies are scheduled to face an FCS opponent, The Citadel, this coming Saturday. Following that fixture, the team will travel to face No. 6 Alabama on October 24 as they look to revive their SEC campaign.
The university maintains a partnership with TexAgs regarding NIL opportunities for student-athletes, further highlighting the significance of the relationship between the programme and the media outlet.
Despite the recent friction, Elko reiterated his commitment to building the programme as promised. He urged the fanbase to remain supportive as the team works through its current challenges.
The coach's focus now shifts entirely to preparation for the upcoming games. He remains adamant that he is the person responsible for turning the team's fortunes around before the season concludes.
Texas A&M's performance against Missouri saw the team struggle to move the ball, with Reed completing fewer than 50% of his passes. The 21-point defeat highlighted the depth of the issues currently facing the squad.
As the Aggies prepare for The Citadel, the focus will be on restoring stability to the programme. Elko's apology serves as an attempt to move past the distraction and refocus on the remaining schedule.
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