SEC play is officially underway, as the Auburn Tigers prepare to host the Arkansas Razorbacks this Saturday to open their 2024 conference slate.
Last season, Auburn dominated Arkansas in a 48-10 blowout on the road. However, this year promises a tougher challenge, with Arkansas expected to field a much-improved team. Here are three key factors that could lead to another Auburn victory over the Razorbacks.
While stopping Arkansas’ potent ground attack entirely may be difficult, Auburn must focus on containing it. The Razorbacks’ run game is a major strength, averaging 259 rushing yards per game this season. They boast a formidable backfield duo in dual-threat quarterback Taylen Green and running back Ja’Quinden Jackson. Green has already rushed for 245 yards and four touchdowns on 41 carries, while Jackson has accumulated 397 yards and six touchdowns on 47 carries. Limiting the impact of these two could be the difference between a strong start in conference play or a second home-field upset in three weeks.
Additionally, wide receiver Andrew Armstrong has been the standout in Arkansas’ receiving corps, leading the team with 18 receptions and 301 yards. No other Razorback receiver has reached 10 catches or 130 yards. Auburn’s defense must force Arkansas to rely on other targets, putting pressure on the Tigers’ banged-up and struggling secondary.
Offensively, Auburn’s focus should be on protecting quarterback Hank Brown, who will be instrumental in determining the game’s outcome. Arkansas’ defense, which has only five sacks and two interceptions so far this season, isn’t the most formidable, but Auburn’s offensive line can’t afford to give them any easy opportunities. If the line can give Brown enough time to make smart decisions and find his targets, Auburn should be able to keep pace with Arkansas’ high-powered offense.
Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. CT on Saturday at Jordan-Hare Stadium, with ESPN broadcasting the game.
