Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko delivered one of the most memorable lines of the college football weekend after his team’s stunning comeback victory over South Carolina, encapsulating a week where coaches across the nation shared insightful and humorous post-game remarks. Elko’s quip came after the Aggies erased a 27-point deficit—the largest in school history—to win 31-30, and he thanked the home fans for their patience during a dismal first half.
The game itself was a tale of two halves, with South Carolina dominating early and building a 30-3 lead before halftime. However, Texas A&M mounted a furious second-half rally, scoring 28 unanswered points to secure the win. Elko’s post-game comment, “Thank you for staying with us. Sorry for what the first half looked like,” highlighted the dramatic turnaround and the loyalty of the Aggies’ supporters, who witnessed a historic moment in college football.
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman also stood out with his praise for wide receiver Malachi Fields, who made a spectacular touchdown catch in the Fighting Irish’s 37-15 win over Pittsburgh. Freeman remarked, “50/50 ball was a 100/0 ball,” emphasizing Fields’ ability to dominate contested catches and his impact on the game, which helped Notre Dame maintain its offensive momentum throughout the contest.
Oregon’s Dan Lanning had a lighthearted moment when discussing quarterback Dante Moore’s performance in a 42-13 win over Minnesota. Upon hearing Moore’s statline of 27-of-30 for 306 yards and two touchdowns, Lanning quipped, “So you’re saying he played pretty good? How ’bout that?” showcasing the Ducks’ offensive efficiency and Moore’s accuracy, which kept Oregon in contention for a College Football Playoff spot.
Clemson’s Dabo Swinney expressed pride in his team’s resilience after a hard-fought road win over Louisville, which brought the Tigers to a .500 record. Swinney said, “Ain’t no quit in that bunch, and there ain’t no quit in me,” reflecting the team’s determination despite a challenging season and highlighting their ability to persevere in close games.
Central Michigan’s Matt Drinkall shared insights into the unique aspects of coaching in the Mid-American Conference, known for its weeknight games. After securing bowl eligibility with a win over Buffalo, Drinkall noted, “MACtion, it’s a whole weird thing,” referring to the logistical challenges of playing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, including players attending classes on game days.
These quotes not only provided entertainment but also offered glimpses into the personalities and philosophies of the coaches, adding depth to the narratives of Week 12. As the season progresses, such moments continue to enrich the college football experience for fans and players alike, underscoring the human element behind the strategies and scores.
