COLLEGE STATION, Texas — No. 19 Texas A&M faces Utah State on Saturday at Kyle Field, aiming to stay unbeaten before opening Southeastern Conference play later this month.

The Aggies opened the season with a 31-10 win over UTSA, giving head coach Mike Elko a strong start in his second year. Quarterback Conner Weigman threw for 245 yards and two touchdowns, while the defense limited the Roadrunners to 243 total yards.

“We challenged our guys to establish the tone early in the season,” Elko said at his weekly press conference. “We saw good execution in key situations, but we know there’s plenty we need to improve on.”

Utah State enters 1-0 after a 38-17 win against Southern Utah in its opener. The Aggies, who play in the Mountain West, were led by quarterback Cooper Legas, who passed for 215 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Robert Briggs added 92 yards on the ground.

The matchup marks the first meeting between Texas A&M and Utah State since 2009, when the Aggies of the SEC earned a 38-30 victory in College Station. A&M is 2-0 all-time against Utah State.

Utah State’s uptempo style will test Texas A&M’s defense. Last season, Utah State ranked among the Mountain West leaders in passing offense. Elko said containing explosive plays will be critical. “They like to spread you out and create space,” Elko said. “We have to stay disciplined in our assignments.”

A&M’s offensive line will also look to build consistency after giving up three sacks in the opener. The unit helped establish a balanced attack, with sophomore running back Rueben Owens rushing for 87 yards and a touchdown.

Special teams remain a focus for both programs. Texas A&M’s Randy Bond converted all four extra points and a 42-yard field goal against UTSA. Utah State kicker Elliott Nimrod hit a career-long 48-yard field goal in its opener.

The game is Texas A&M’s final nonconference tune-up before opening SEC play against Florida on Sept. 13. Utah State will continue its road swing next week at Fresno State.