SEC West: Showdown in Jerry's World
#10 Arkansas Vs. #23 Texas A&M
The #10 ranked Razorbacks go into a neutral site game against the #23 ranked Aggies in a showdown in Jerry’s World. The ESPN game of the week is a unique game for the battle of The South West Classic and winning the west.
This game showcases strength vs strength in Arkansas’ rushing attack, and Arkansas’s suspect secondary vs a second start LSU (Louisiana State University) transfer, Max Johnson.
Arkansas’ pass defense has been the most concerning piece of this #10 ranked Razorback team. They ranked dead last in FBS regarding pass defense in Passing Yards Per Game. Could this be something that Texas A&M can take advantage of? The #23 Ranked Aggies have had a slow start on offense. Could Max Johnson give this offense a spark? During last week’s matchup against Miami, Max Johnson put up 140 passing yards and a passing touchdown against the #13 ranked Miami Hurricanes. In a close game at Kyle Field, A&M did what needed to be done and got the win against a talented Miami team.
Texas A&M is looking for a consistent passing game against the Arkansas secondary. With the Razorbacks knowing this is a concerning element of their team, and the return of starting safety Myles Slusher, they are looking to make a statement in Jerry’s world this Saturday.
The conservative A&M offense could be up against a real challenge this weekend against the Razorback pass rush. The Arkansas Razorbacks are the best team in college football when it comes to getting to the quarterback (Ranked #1 in FBS in sacks). Could that be the difference in this rivalry game?
This matchup is primetime ESPN for a reason. A&M is one of the most talented teams this season. Arkansas is one of the most competitive teams this season. The matchup should consist of a heavy A&M passing attack and a continuous Arkansas rushing attack. A&M brings a talented backfield with Achane and a shifty southpaw in Max Johnson.
Arkansas brings the biggest backfield duo in FBS with KJ Jefferson at 242lbs and Rahiem (Rocket) Sanders at 227lbs. Expect a close game in Arlington. Should be a blow for blow. Can Texas A&M capitalize on a sloppy Arkansas secondary? Can the Razorback’s ground game score enough to put A&M away? The spread as of Friday is A&M -2. Gamble responsibly, but this is a game that should be on everyone’s card.
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