Razorbacks Face First Instate Program Since 1944. What to watch for, predictions and more.

HOW TO WATCH
Game: Arkansas vs. UAPB (War Memorial Stadium, Little Rock (Ark.)

Odds: Arkansas (-51.5)

Time: 11:00 AM CT, Saturday, October 23

TV: SEC Network

Stream: ESPN App

Radio: Razorback Sports Network/Learfield IMG

What is promising is that Arkansas has a chance for their backups and third team depth chart players to play this weekend.

If this game isn’t out of hand early I would be very surprised. UAPB is currently 1-5 on the season out of the SWAC.

The Razorbacks will play the Golden Lions this Saturday inside War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock, (Ark.). This will be the first matchup between the state’s flagship program and a smaller instate school since 1944. This is also the first game ever between the two football programs and will be broadcasted on the SEC Network at 11 AM.

What needs to happen?

Arkansas needs to get off to a fast start in the first quarter. The Razorbacks are far superior in talent as they should be as a SEC team facing a struggling FCS program.

Offensively, it would be nice to see the Hogs score and pad their stats throughout the first half. Can the Razorbacks score on every possession? They had no problem moving the ball last Saturday between the 20’s against Auburn but couldn’t score the football when it mattered. Nine out of their first ten possessions last week the Hogs found their way into Auburn territory.

Jefferson should be able to rack up 200 yards of total offense easily but will they try to utilize him that way? Or will they run the football behind their improved offensive line? It’s very possible that the running backs can find space and open field on Saturday. They should have no issue rushing for 400 yards. Who will lead them? Rocket Sanders has received more carries as of late but will they save him? AJ Green should receive five more carries. We could also see true freshman Javion Hunt and walk-on track star Josh Oglesby.

Defensively, this game is key to giving their young defensive backs the opportunity to gain experience with injuries continuing to pile on. LaDarrius Bishop should return this week after missing the Auburn game. Greg Brooks has struggled recently at nickel back with freshman Jayden Johnson pulling in valuable snaps their in relief. If the Razorback defense can keep UAPB off the scoreboard we will definitely see a lot of younger players either later in the first half or to start the second.

What will happen?

The Hogs offensive starters magic number to score is 42 and they should reach that with ease. The Golden Lions defense has been hit repeatedly for big plays and long touchdowns. This Saturday should be no different as the starters roll up 400 yards quickly before receiving rest going into the open week.

Malik Hornsby will receive a ton of second half snaps on Saturday and will expose the Golden Lions with his elite track speed. It is very possible he scores on two long rushing touchdowns.

For two years the coaching staff has raved about the speed of Oglesby. Will he display that on Saturday when he is able to on Saturday? Also, we could see a certain true freshman come into his own. Ketron Jackson is thought to be the replacement for Treylon Burks. This week is the perfect time for #2 to find the endzone for the first time of his Razorback career. His first two touchdowns have been called back due to penalties.

The Razorback defense should force the opponents quarterback into a frenzy running for his life. I see no way that the Golden Lions score in this one outside of busted coverage or a couple of missed tackles while the starters are out there. The starters will lead the Hogs to a first half shutout before exiting the game.

The Razorback defense allows less than 200 total yards and 10 points to UAPB. The Hogs will win and big.

Hogs 63 - Golden Lions 6