Three keys for Razorbacks in Little Rock matchup against Arkansas State

1. Establishing Taylen Green’s Rhythm Early

Quarterback Taylen Green’s arrival in Fayetteville has provided the Razorbacks with a unique mix of size, speed, and poise. His opening-week performance demonstrated how quickly he can change the flow of a game with his arm and legs.

Arkansas’ offensive plan relies on Green settling into rhythm early. Quick completions, designed runs, and tempo-driven play-calling will be the biggest keys to set a tone that keeps Arkansas State’s defense off balance.

When Green has been able to dictate pace, the Razorbacks’ offense has looked efficient and capable of sustaining drives.

Arkansas State’s defense, however, is not to be overlooked. The Red Wolves’ front has shown improvement, with quicker penetration and better pursuit angles compared to recent years. Neutralizing Green early could shift momentum toward the visitors.

As ESPN’s coverage of Arkansas’ opening win noted, Green’s composure in critical moments provides the Razorbacks the stability they needed.

Hogs coach Sam Pittman has made it crystal clear that maintaining that steadiness will be a priority.

2. Defensive Line Must Contain the Run

While Green may be the focal point for Arkansas, the Razorbacks’ defensive line faces its own test. Arkansas State brings a balanced attack but thrives when establishing the ground game.

Allowing consistent gains on early downs would open up the Red Wolves’ playbook and make it harder for Arkansas to dictate tempo.

Defensive coordinator Travis Williams has emphasized gap discipline and line consistency throughout preseason practices and in early game action. Assignment soundness will be critical, particularly against a Red Wolves offense that can lean on misdirection to exploit over-pursuit.

Arkansas’ depth along the defensive front, featuring a rotation designed to keep players fresh, is expected to be a strength. Limiting big runs and forcing Arkansas State into passing situations will put the Razorbacks’ secondary in position to capitalize.

Arkansas’ defensive staff has continued to stress fundamentals leading into this matchup, knowing that giving up explosive rushing plays could keep Arkansas State competitive.

3. Winning Special Teams Situations

For this one to be dominated by the Hogs as everyone expects, details matter.

Special teams could end up being a deciding factor if either side struggles to establish clear dominance elsewhere. Arkansas has confidence in punter Max Fletcher and kicker Cam Little, both of whom have been consistent contributors.

Field position will play a major role, particularly if the Red Wolves’ defense holds up early. The Razorbacks can't afford breakdowns in coverage or mistakes in the kicking game to give Arkansas State short fields.

Special teams coordinator Scott Fountain has consistently emphasized execution in high-pressure situations, and this week will be no different. Arkansas State has a history of manufacturing big special teams plays in key moments, and preventing those breakdowns will be crucial to avoiding unnecessary momentum swings.

A well-executed special teams effort from the Razorbacks could ensure they maintain control of field position, easing pressure on both Green and the defensive line.

Setting the Tone in Little Rock

The Razorbacks’ matchup with Arkansas State is less about history and more about execution. Green’s ability to control tempo, the defensive line’s discipline against the run, and the consistency of special teams all stand as pivotal factors.

While Arkansas enters the game as about a three-touchdown favorite, Arkansas State’s improvement under coach Butch Jones means the Red Wolves should not be dismissed. Razorback Stadium is expected to be filled with a charged atmosphere for the meeting, and both teams know the energy could tilt quickly.

For Arkansas, attention to detail and early dominance in these three areas may determine whether the game unfolds comfortably or becomes a tightly contested battle.

Key Takeaways