By BJ Bennett
SouthernPigskin.com

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Week one will be a fascinating litmus test for an improved Texas A&M defense.

Texas A&M’s defense made notable progress the second-half of the year, allowing just over 15 points per game over its final four outings. Overall, the Aggies finished 7th in the SEC in scoring defense and 8th in total defense, considerable improvement over the season prior. Coordinator John Chavis’ unit, led by All-American edge rusher Myles Garrett, has tangible momentum entering this fall.

Week one will be a fascinating litmus test for Texas A&M defensively, as UCLA will come to College Station for a high-profile season-opener. Sophomore quarterback Josh Rosen, fresh off 3,669 yards and 23 touchdowns as a true freshman, will test the Aggies’ growth as one of the nation’s top passers. Rosen had a half-dozen 300-yard games last fall and is only expected to improve in his second year under center. Along with Chad Kelly, Rosen will likely be the top quarterback Texas A&M sees all season.

The most dramatic improvement the Aggies made in year one under Chavis was in pass defense. After allowing nearly 235 yards per game in 2014, Texas A&M gave up just over 166 yards per game in 2015; that margin was good for fourth in all of college football. Back to set the tone are cornerback Donovan Wilson, five interceptions a year ago, and safety Armani Watts, who is the SEC’s leading returning tackler with 126 stops.

Garrett will also play a key role in limiting Rosen’s production. With 24 sacks entering his junior season, Garrett is the top pass-rusher in the country. The talents of he and Daeshon Hall will be tested as the Bruins allowed only 14 sacks this past year; only one power five opponent gave up fewer. At 6’9”, Conor McDermott is one of the game’s best tackles.

In what will be an important season for the Aggies, week one will be a big barometer defensively.