Dec. 16, 2025, 5:30 a.m. CT

For the first time in program history, Texas A&M (11-1, 7-1 SEC) is headed to the College Football Playoff and will host the Miami Hurricanes (10-2) in the first round on Saturday afternoon. For the Aggies leave Kyle Field with a victory and prepare to face No. 2 Ohio State in the Quarterfinals, two of the team’s top playmakers will need to perform at an elite level.

On Monday, head coach Mike Elko and several players, including sophomore wide receiver Mario Craver, took questions from the media. At the same time, Craver’s health status after a lower-body injury in the latter half of the regular season was the main topic of conversation, aside from senior running back Le’Veon Moss’s status after missing the last five games.

Craver’s production, aside from recording one reception for 6 yards during the historic 27-point comeback win vs. South Carolina, didn’t decrease dramatically. Still, head coach Mike Elko made the right decision to sit him during the Aggies’ 48-0 victory over Samford.

After reeling in five receptions for 44 yards during the regular season finale loss against Texas, Craver stated on Monday that he is as healthy as he’s been all season after several weeks off.

“It’s been great. Me getting back to 100 percent and full speed is going to help this offense a lot.”

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Concerning the Miami secondary, led by Jakobe Thomas, Keionte Scott, and Zechariah Poyser, Craver is excited to match up with the Hurricanes‘ cornerback and safety rotation, feeling that, while it will be a significant challenge, only the Texas Longhorns have been able to mitigate somewhat his skillset, paired with fellow wideouts KC Concepcion and Ashton Bethel-Roman.

“They are very physical and great in the back half. I look forward to this matchup.”

Trusting him at his word, the first injury report that is set to be released on Wednesday night will reveal the actual status of Craver, Le’Veon Moss, linebacker Scooby Williams, and safety Bryce Anderson.

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