WATCH: Texas A&M QB Marcel Reed Scores First TD Against Oklahoma State
HOUSTON -- Everyone remembers their first touchdown and Marcel Reed isn't different.
The Texas A&M freshman quarterback broke past a slew of Oklahoma State defenders for a 20-yard touchdown run with four minutes remaining in the third quarter, cutting into the Cowboys' lead by 11. OSU leads 31-20 heading into the final 15 minutes of the TaxAct Texas Bowl.
Reed, a native of Nashville, Tenn., took over the offense after Jaylen Henderson suffered an injury on his non-throwing shoulder on the first play from scrimmge. The dual-threat passer completed 8 of 15 passes for 124 yards in the first half.
A&M posted its best drive of the night after allowing an 18-yard touchdown to OSU's Rashod Owens. Reed hit Jahdae Walker for a gain on nine to pick up a fresh set of downs. The duo connected a play later for a gain of 32 yards.
Texas A&M Aggies quarterback Marcel Reed (10) runs with the ball as Oklahoma State Cowboys linebacker Nickolas Martin (4) attempts to make a tackle during the first quarter at NRG Stadium.
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Rueben Owens moved the sticks on back-to-back runs before Reed took off for the end zone. Reed leaped over the pylon and celebrated with teammates to commemorate the moment.
A&M entered Wednesday's showdown down nearly a dozen starters due to opt-outs and the transfer portal. Prior to kickoff, receiver Noah Thomas, offensive lineman Mark Nabou and defensive lineman Shemar Turner were all ruled out due to injury.
The Aggies previously faced off against Oklahoma State in the 2019 Texas Bowl, winning 24-21 behind an MVP performance from Kellen Mond. Reed emulates skills similar to those of Mond thanks to his mobility and straight-line speed.
A victory for A&M would mark the fifth eight-win season in the Jimbo Fisher era. A victory for Oklahoma State would mark the eighth double-digit win season under Mike Gundy.
