A huge problem with both of Ewers' turnovers against A&M was playcalling. As you said, RTDB in the red zone. Why are we going for a low percentage perimeter pass? It could have worked but for the tip, but I still don't like it.
But playcalling on the second turnover (the fumble) was inexcusable. We have a hobbled QB who was not a great runner to begin with, why are we asking him to do zone read in the red zone? Did Sark think Manning was in? Makes no sense. That doesn't excuse how careless Ewers was being with the football, but the problem started with the playcall.
I don't agree - in 2023, Sanders had 45 receptions for 682 yards and 2 TDs. His longest reception (catch and run) was 50 yards. This season, Helm has 48 receptions for 600 yards and 5 TDs. His longest reception was 49 yards.
Sanders was a great receiving TE, but his numbers aren't materially better than Helm's. On top of that, Helm has been absolutely mission critical in giving Ewers an outlet on tough downs. Ewers clearly trusts Helm and feels more confident throwing him the ball. In other words, I don't think the numbers support the argument that Sanders was better and I don't think the eye test supports it either.