COLLEGE STATION, Texas -- After Texas A&M rolled to a 65-28 win over Sam Houston State on Saturday, it's time to give out some helmet stickers for key performances:
Johnny Manziel: In his first start of the season, Manziel was efficient, effective and productive. The sophomore quarterback was 28-of-41 passing for 403 yards and three touchdowns, and he rushed for 36 yards and another touchdown. It's the seventh game in the last two seasons that he has thrown for at least three touchdowns and rushed for at least one. He leads the nation in those occurrences during that time span. He clearly made efforts to stay in the pocket more, but he also showed his signature scrambling ability. He also was smart enough to throw the ball away when nothing was there. His one interception could be attributed to a bad playcall, coach Kevin Sumlin said.
Mike Evans: He continues to be Manziel's favorite target. The sophomore receiver had team highs in catches (seven) and receiving yards (155). He made some impressive hauls and had a good night beating man coverage, which is what the Bearkats mostly threw at Evans. He also continues to be a good blocker in the running game and good in getting yards after the catch.
Tommy Sanders: The Aggies didn't have a strong defensive effort and struggled defending the run, but Sanders showed significant improvement from week one. Of the junior linebacker's five tackles, three were tackles for loss. The Aggies can benefit from continued progress by the junior-college transfer as he is going to be a regular in the lineup this season.
