Week 13's Overnight Sensation: Jaylen Henderson, Quarterback

Each Monday during the 2023 Texas A&M football season, we’ll identify a first or second-year Aggie player who delivered an exceptional performance over the weekend and earned the distinction of being the week’s ‘Overnight Sensation.’

It has been a season of uncertainty for Texas A&M, especially for third-string quarterback Jaylen Henderson.

In April, Henderson decided to transfer from Fresno State, searching for a landing spot. In May, he decided Texas A&M was the place for him.

However, Henderson’s chances of seeing the field looked to be few and far between. That was until Conner Weigman and Max Johnson were sidelined with injuries.

The third-stringer got his opportunities and wins against a sub .500 Mississippi State team and FCS foe in Abilene Christian.

Playing toe-to-toe with LSU and Heisman frontrunner Jayden Daniels? That’s a different beast.

However, Henderson took on the challenge.

In the first SEC start of his career, the sophomore led A&M to a 17-14 halftime lead over their conference rival, including three straight scoring drives and increased that gap by ten just after the break.

"In the first half, we were clicking on all cylinders,” Henderson said. “I was precise with the reads and everything. They changed some things up in the second half. There are some plays I wish I had back second half. Hats off to them."

A woeful second half, including an interception, may have spoiled the spark-filled start, but there was a lot to like from the signal-caller on Saturday.

Head to head, Henderson outgained Daniels through the air (295 vs. 235) and posted a higher completion percentage (71% vs. 67%). At the half, Henderson was a perfect 8-for-8 on third down with 106 yards and one touchdown.

How about that from QB3?

"He's a warrior, and I think he fought his tail off to put us in the best position to be successful," interim head coach Elijah Robinson said.

Due to his productivity in three games and recent changes in the quarterback room, Henderson could prove as a promising backup next season, as Johnson decided to enter his name in the transfer portal.

It’s safe to say that the future is bright for a young quarterback, and there is still an opportunity for Henderson to hoist a bowl trophy and bring it back to Aggieland.

Henderson’s stats vs. LSU
Completions: 25
Attempts: 35
Total Yards: 294
Touchdowns: 2
Interceptions: 1

Henderson’s 2023 stats
Completions: 52
Attempts: 77
Passing Yards: 704
Touchdowns: 6
Interceptions: 2