Preview and Thread: Tourney Time Against South Carolina

Time: 8 p.m. CT is the listed time but there’s no way the game before it is done in time. Likely 8:30-8:45ish.

TV: SEC Network

Line: Arkansas -5, O/U: 147

Last Time Out

Arkansas shook off a two game losing streak and kickstarted their stretch run of the season with a 16 point win over the Gamecocks. It was a game where they got their defense on track and the senior guards were hitting on all cylinders. Jaylen Barford had 24 and Daryl Macon scored 25.

Projected Starters

The question for the Hogs is who will step in the Dustin Thomas’ place. Against the Gamecocks in their first game, Thomas got a DNP and Bailey started in his play. I’d expect the same in this one. He won’t be asked to score a lot, instead they’ll want him to deflect passes and make an impact on the defensive end.

It wasn’t a very successful offensive game for South Carolina against the Hogs, Justin Minaya and Hassani Gravett led the way with 11 and 12 points as starters.

3 Stats From Last Time

Arkansas was coming off giving up 94 points to LSU, their most allowed this season. This game was a big turning point in the Hogs’ defense and allowing them to win six of their last eight regular season games. They started forcing turnovers again, blocking shots, and were able to keep the Gamecocks from being successful in the paint. The game plan for this one should be very similar, force turnovers, and let Macon and Barford do what they do best.