Preview and Gamethread: Arkansas at Missouri

Time: 8 p.m. CT

TV: ESPNU

Line: Arkansas -1.5, O/U: 138.5

Location: Columbia, MO

Arkansas has their first opportunity for a sweep this season as they take on Mizzou on the road. The Hogs overcame a horrendous start in their matchup against the Tigers and ended up winning by double digits. From trailing 17-4 in the first 10 minutes to outscoring the Tigers 68-43 in the final 30 minutes of the game. Isaiah Joe was the MVP of the game, hitting seven shots from deep.

It wouldn’t be a big surprise to see someone in place of Javon Pickett, who had one missed shot and two turnovers in 10 minutes of action against the Hogs. Mark Smith, who had a career high 22 against the Hogs, hasn’t played since due to an ankle injury he suffered in that game. Torrence Watson has most recently taken his role in the starting spot but Xavier Pinson is also an option.

Arkansas flipped the first game by forcing turnovers and protecting the ball. Seven different Mizzou players had at least two turnovers in the game and it played right into the Hogs’ strengths, who then were able to ride a hot shooting game from Joe to a win. Arkansas also had a much more involved bench than the Tigers, more than doubling their shots and getting efficient production from the bench. Missouri’s bench should be even shorter if Smith is unable to play, and it should be an advantage for the Hogs.