Two Texas A&M Aggies Headed to Super Bowl LIX
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Loading... - Aiden Connolly
- 27 Jan 2025
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Two former Texas A&M Aggies have secured their spots in Super Bowl LIX, set to take place in New Orleans on February 9. The Kansas City Chiefs triumphed over the Buffalo Bills with a close score of 32-29 in the AFC Championship, earning their place in the championship game against the Philadelphia Eagles, who feature the two Aggies.
Ainias Smith, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
Ainias Smith, a wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles, had a notable college career at Texas A&M, where he played for five seasons before being selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. During the regular season, Smith participated in seven games, making one start. He recorded seven receptions for 41 yards and a touchdown, along with two carries for six yards. Smith played a total of 100 snaps, with 96 on offense and four on special teams.
In a pivotal Week 18 matchup against the New York Giants, Smith showcased his skills by catching four passes for 35 yards, including his first career touchdown on a 15-yard pass from quarterback Tanner McKee. However, Smith has been inactive for all three of Philadelphia's playoff games thus far, and it remains uncertain whether he will be active for the Super Bowl.
Braden Mann, Punter, Philadelphia Eagles
Braden Mann, also a Texas A&M alumnus, serves as the starting punter for the Philadelphia Eagles. Mann had a successful four-year stint at Texas A&M and has continued to make an impact in the NFL. He played in all 17 regular-season games and has been a key contributor in the playoffs, participating in all three postseason contests.
During the regular season, Mann recorded 54 punts for a total of 2,633 yards, with only seven touchbacks. Notably, 20 of his punts were placed inside the 20-yard line, showcasing his precision. In the playoffs, Mann has punted 11 times for 525 yards, with two touchbacks and four punts landing inside the 20.
As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare to face the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX, Ainias Smith and Braden Mann will represent Texas A&M on one of the biggest stages in sports. With Mann's crucial role as the starting punter and Smith's potential contributions, both Aggies will be looking to make their mark in the championship game. Fans of Texas A&M will be cheering for their former players as they aim for a Super Bowl ring.
