Debate Time: What was the best catch in the history of Aggie football?

The Texas A&M football program has had a wealth of talent in their wide receiver’s room over the last decade or so. Whether it be fan favorites like Ryan Swope, generational talents like Mike Evans, or just ridiculous athletes like Speedy Noil, the Maroon and White have a legitimate shot at claiming the coveted title of “Receiver-U”.

As the country continues to essentially shut down, I’ve had time to do two things lately: Drink copious amounts of Crown Royal out of sippee cups, and re-watch old football games. The latter has led me to ask you a question, Aggie fans. Among all of those elite pass catchers who’ve donned the Maroon and White, which one holds the title of best catch in school history on their resume’?

We’ve narrowed it down to a select few.

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Josh Reynolds

Although this didn’t count, and I’m unbelievably biased because like myself, he’s a San Antonio guy; this is an absolutely incredible catch. While watching this live, a slightly inebriated version of myself thought he dragged his back foot and almost flipped a table at the Corner Bar back in 2016.

Speedy Noil

Despite having a defense that never got off the bus (shout out to my homie Jay Arnold), Speedy Noil put on a clinic in what was likely the best performance of his career against Mississippi State in 2014. The explosive play maker out of the bayou had a knack for high pointing the ball and displayed flashes of greatness his freshman year before derailing his career with issues off the field.

Mike Evans

You can’t discuss Texas A&M wideouts without Mike Evans dominating the conversation. The perennial pro bowler’s college career is littered with highlight worthy snags, but there are two in particular that really separate themselves from the rest of the pack.

First, few will ever forget the Galveston native’s 95-yard catch and run versus the Alabama Crimson Tide in 2013. The historic reception erupted Kyle Field, brought the Aggies back with in a score against the defending national champs, and nearly gave Bama DB Cyrus Jones a concussion after a filthy bitch slap stiff arm.

Another moment of Evans’ illustrious career that doesn’t get brought up nearly enough, is his drive saving catch against Ole Miss in 2012. The 6’5 goliath leaped over a helpless Rebel defender on 3rd and 19 from the 3-yard line and ignited a comeback for the ages in Oxford.

Ryan Swope

Throughout the history of Aggie football, few players have embodied the spirit of the 12th Man quite like Ryan Swope. The shifty receiver out of Austin Westlake poured in one the greatest careers in program history during his four year stint in College Station, but he undoubtedly saved his best for when the lights shined brightest.

During the Maroon and White’s historic victory over the #1 ranked Alabama Crimson Tide in 2012, #25 came down with a momentum shifting catch that cemented his legacy in Aggie folklore.

Jeff Fuller

Despite being the first receiver in program history to break the 1,000 yard threshold in a single season, Jeff Fuller doesn’t get nearly enough love among the fan base. During the height of his college career, #8 was arguably the best receiver in an explosive Big 12 conference. His combination of strength and spectacular leaping ability were a rare bright spot during a traditionally sad window of Aggie football.

During the 2010 season against the Baylor Bears and future Heisman trophy winner RG3, Fuller pulled down a sensational one handed snag that sparked a monster second half comeback. Down 30-14 in Waco, the Aggies roared back to beat the Bears 42-30.

Kendrick Rogers

Although not exactly a beacon of consistency, Kendrick Rogers has arguably compiled the most exciting highlight tape out of every player listed thus far. His short tenure in an A&M jersey had Aggie fans marveling at some of the Frankston, Texas natives’ acrobatic receptions the last few seasons. Few could compare to his legendary outing against the LSU Tigers in 2018, however.

After a big catch which set up a game tying score to end regulation, Rogers put on a show in the following overtime periods. #13 pulled down four receptions, including two touchdowns - one being an incredible one handed snag after getting mauled by a defender - and a pair of two-point conversions after regulation.