Blues, BBQ and Bass Pro: Arkansas vs. Memphis Preview / Prediction

MEMPHIS — As the 2025 college football season barrels into Week 4, the Liberty Bowl is set to host a fascinating clash between the Arkansas Razorbacks (2-1) and the Memphis Tigers (3-0).

Both teams enter the game with something to prove: Arkansas is looking to bounce back from a tough loss just down the road to Ole Miss, while Memphis aims to remain undefeated and continue their push toward a Group of Five playoff spot. With kickoff at noon on ABC, this game is a side snack for college football diehards while the big FOX noon slate featuring Texas Tech and Utah takes place.

But not us! We will have eyes on this game as we assess whether the Razorbacks can stay frisky heading into Notre Dame week.

Arkansas Razorbacks: Redemption on the Road

The Razorbacks (2-1) are no strangers to the Liberty Bowl, and they bring a potent offense led by quarterback Taylen Green. Green has thrown for 866 yards with 11 touchdowns and just 2 interceptions, while also contributing 307 rushing yards and 2 rushing scores, providing Arkansas with a dual-threat dynamic that can stress any defense.

Arkansas has been tested in the early season, suffering that crushing defeat to Ole Miss, but the Razorbacks have plenty of talent to compete with Memphis, especially if they stay focused. With a huge SEC clash against Notre Dame looming next week, head coach Sam Pittman must keep his team sharp to avoid a classic trap game scenario.

Memphis Tigers: Undefeated and Motivated

Memphis (3-0) has made a strong start to the season, opening with road wins over Georgia State and Troy and boasting an impressive defensive unit. The Tigers’ offense, led by quarterback Lewis, who has 608 yards passing, with a pair of touchdowns. Memphis has been efficient without being flashy, averaging 37 points per game while giving up just 11, as Lewis adds 190 yards rushing and 2 on the ground.

Memphis’s defense ranks among the top Group of Five squads, which will be crucial against Arkansas’ high-powered attack. A win here not only maintains their perfect record but also strengthens their case for the G5 playoff race, reminding everyone that Memphis can compete with the bigger programs.

Keys to the Game

Arkansas must control the tempo with Green at quarterback, stay disciplined to avoid turnovers, and keep their focus despite the looming Notre Dame matchup. Memphis needs to leverage home-field advantage, maintain defensive pressure on Green, and execute a balanced offensive attack to wear down the Razorbacks. This clash of styles—Arkansas’s offensive firepower versus Memphis’s disciplined defense—makes the Liberty Bowl a compelling venue for a sneaky good game.

Remember, the Tigers knocked off a ranked one-loss Ole Miss team here in 2015 and the Razorbacks are in desperate need of a rebound before SEC play ramps up.

Trap game! Scream it from the top of the Bass Pro pyramid!

Blues, BBQ and Bass Pro highlight a high stakes clash in west Tennessee on Saturday.

Game Outlook

Arkansas enters as a 7.5-point favorite, with the over/under set at 62.5. While the Razorbacks have the talent to cover the spread, Memphis’s undefeated record and stingy defense make an upset a real possibility. With both teams fighting for pride and positioning, fans should expect a spirited, high-energy matchup.