Week Eight's Overnight Sensation: Jardin Gilbert, Defensive Back
Each Monday during the 2021 Texas A&M football season, we’ll identify a first or second-year Aggie player who delivered an exceptional performance and earned the distinction of being the week’s ‘Overnight Sensation.’
Defensive domination. Defensive standout.
Finding his way onto the field late in Texas A&M's 44-14 win over South Carolina, freshman defensive back Jardin Gilbert made his presence known, registering a team-high six tackles, all in the final quarter of action.
After holding the Gamecock offense in check for 45 minutes of play, Jimbo Fisher and Mike Elko put the talent of the depth chart on display. The Aggies had limited the visitors to just 15 yards of offense through the first three stanzas.
Gilbert, a true freshman from White Castle, Louisiana, saw plenty of action. While the Aggies' second-team defense allowed 170 yards in the fourth quarter, Gilbert was a bright spot, making five solo stops along the way.
Having seen the field in each of A&M's first seven games, Gilbert finally received extended playing time in Week Eight. With the outcome no longer in doubt, the youngster earned vital reps as he continues in the early development process at the collegiate level.
While most of his tackles were downfield as the Gamecocks finally found an offensive rhythm for the first time all night, Gilbert showcased his willingness to attack the ball carrier. His biggest and most impressive stop of the evening came near the line of scrimmage as he held Zaquandre White to just a 1-yard gain on second-and-6 with 10:29 to play.
A&M's secondary also came away with a pair of interceptions during the last 15 minutes with Tyreek Chappell and Deuce Harmon earning their first career picks. Even though it wasn't Gilbert getting his hands on the football, the entire unit of young defensive backs offered a preview of what’s to come in the A&M secondary as they mature in Maroon & White.
Gilbert's six tackles are a very early career-high as greatness could certainly be in his future.
Gilbert's stats vs. South Carolina
Tackles: 6
Solo Tackles: 5
TFLs: 0
Interceptions: 0
Pass Break Ups: 0
Gilbert's 2021 stats
Tackles: 9
Solo Tackles: 5
TFLs: 0.5
Interceptions: 0
Pass Break Ups: 0
