Three Keys To Arkansas Success Versus Arkansas State

As we continue the Arkansas Report Card, we at Last Word have detailed the historical impact of the week two meeting between Arkansas and Arkansas State. Now, we get down to business as we analyze the monumental contest. With this, we present three keys to Arkansas’ success versus Arkansas State. 

Three Keys To Arkansas Success Versus Arkansas State

Be Ready For Anything

This is not an FCS opponent for the Razorbacks. Arkansas State is entering the game looking to shock the state and upset the Hogs. In the event of an unknown opponent, anything can happen. In the meantime, Arkansas has to be prepared. Although we are not aware of what it will be, the Red Wolves will be looking to steal any momentum and advantage possible. 

This game has been circled in Jonesboro for some time. Even in its week one victory, 42-24 over Southeast Missouri State, the Red Wolves were also focused on this game. Arkansas passed its week one report card, and this week the competition takes a massive step up. This week for Arkansas, the first key will be intriguing to dissect. 

Play Razorback Football 

In week one, we saw an onslaught from Arkansas in its dismantling of Alabama A&M. Within this was an offense that took control in the trenches to unleash the weapons around quarterback Taylen Green. This, coupled with play calls from Bobby Petrino and Arkansas, will look to pass another week of grading offensively. 

On the defensive side of the ball, the Red Wolves are no slouch. ASU is led by quarterback Jaylen Raynor, who was quite efficient in week one. In the win over SEMO, Raynor finished with 345 yards through the air for three touchdowns and no interceptions. The weapons are there for Arkansas State head coach Butch Jones, such as a duo of receivers, Chauncy Cobb and Corey Rucker, on the outside. In the backfield, the Red Wolves feature Ja’Quez Cross. On Saturday, key two is the most difficult. We will be watching this key closely to properly grade it. 

Do Not Sleep On Red Wolves 

We spoke about the unpredictability and weapons of Arkansas State. In the third key of week two, Arkansas has to come into the game prepared for the Red Wolves. In the history of the program, no in-state program has ever embarrassed the Razorbacks. 

As has been noted, many questions are being asked around Arkansas. Nevertheless, a loss to Arkansas State would rock both the state and the Razorbacks. From the coaching staff to players, the program cannot overlook this game. Consequently, if this is done, Arkansas can fall to an in-state opponent for the first time in program history.  In key three of this week, Arkansas has to stay awake for this game, and not sleep on the Red Wolves.

In closing, this history-making meeting will be fun for many across the state of Arkansas. For the Razorbacks to have success, there will be many factors at play. We delved into three that we will be watching, as all eyes will be on the state capital of Arkansas. Can Arkansas pass this week’s report card?