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Mike Elko has a simple way to ensure Texas A&M players stay motivated

Jul 22, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; Texas A&M Aggies head coach Mike Elko speaks to the press during SEC Football Kickoff Media Day at the Tampa Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Jul 22, 2026; Tampa, FL, USA; Texas A&M Aggies head coach Mike Elko speaks to the press during SEC Football Kickoff Media Day at the Tampa Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Mike Elko has found early success in College Station, but he knows how to make sure Aggies players don't become complacent.

Mike Elko's first two seasons in College Station have been undeniably successful.

Texas A&M stumbled to an 8-5 finish down the stretch in Elko's first season after a 7-1 start, but they reached the College Football Playoff after starting 11-0 last season in Year 2. Unfortunately, the Aggies were once again plagued by a rough finish, dropping the regular season finale against rival Texas before losing at home in their CFP opener against Miami.

In Year 3, Elko's group is looking to get over the hump, and he said it hasn't been difficult to find ways to stave off complacency and keep his players motivated.

“I show them our trophy case, and it’s empty,” Elko said when asked how he makes sure his players are never satisfied.

Texas A&M is one of the most prominent programs yet to win a title in the modern era. The school claims three titles — 1919, 1927 and 1939 — though only the latter is broadly recognized. The Aggies also haven't won a conference title since their lone Big 12 championship under coach R.C. Slocum in 1998.

We'll see if 2026 is the season that TAMU can finally get over that hump, and it seems Elko is making sure his team stays hungry.

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This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: Mike Elko has a simple way to ensure Texas A&M players stay motivated

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