Texas A&M's Mike Elko Talks Sam Leavitt, Lane Kiffin Ahead Of LSU Showdown

Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko met with reporters this week to preview Saturday's SEC showdown against LSU in Baton Rouge.

During his press conference, Elko shared his thoughts on LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt, discussed the challenges of facing a Lane Kiffin offense, and spoke about his relationship with the Tigers' head coach.

Here's what Elko had to say about Saturday's matchup:

Mike Elko on LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt:

"I think what I see in Sam is, like, an ultra-competitive kid. He's got an ability to hurt you with his legs, but maybe in a different type of way.

"He's a fast kid. He's escapable, but he's also, like, not—he will throw his body around. He doesn't back down from contact at all.

"I just think he's, yeah, he's a supremely competitive kid. That's what I see when I watch him."

On facing a Lane Kiffin offense:

"I've only done it once, so I haven't had a ton of experience going against it, and I think it's changed dramatically from where it was back then.

"And so I don't have a ton of experience against Lane."

On his relationship with Lane Kiffin:

"I mean, I don't really know him that well. Obviously, we interact at head coaches' meetings, and, you know, those are all positive.

"I got a lot of respect for Lane. I think he's a really good football coach. I think he does a really good job.

"I think he did a phenomenal job at Ole Miss, and I'm sure he'll do a really good job at LSU."

Mike Elko's full press conference: