After a shaky performance in Lexington against the Kentucky Wildcats, the Mississippi State Bulldogs came home to Starkville with a win. Sadly, there is no time to rest and MSU will be taking on a tough Arkansas team this Saturday.
Arkansas (4-4) is looking to make a huge statement in the division. They have really improved since last year and are a huge threat on the ground. Through the first five games, Arkansas was ranked second in the nation in rushing yards. Their ability to move the rock comes from their stout offensive line, whom is the biggest in the country. Yes, you heard me. They are taller and heavier than any offensive line in the NFL as well as the NCAA. Arkansas played two touch games against Texas A&M and Alabama and you could argue they should have won both of those matchups.
Arkansas has struggled throwing the ball this season and Mississippi State is going to have to force quarterback Brandon Allen to beat them.
Defensively, Mississippi State will need to shut down the Razorback’s running game. The defensive line will have to win the matchup against Arkansas’ massive offensive line on every snap. The Bulldogs’ depth in the defensive line department should be able to wear out the big blockers from Arkansas.
We should see a lot of corner blitz packages on Saturday, due to the non-existent threat of Arkansas’ passing attack. Defensive coordinator Geoff Collins should have some interesting looks from all different areas of the defense.
On offense, Mississippi State quarterback Dak Prescott has to continue leading his team, both through the air and on the ground. Now that Oregon’s Marcus Mariota has taken a slight lead in the Heisman race, Prescott needs to take the reign as the Heisman frontrunner. Look for some big throws on Saturday from Dak and the Bulldogs.
As always, Bulldogs’ running back Josh Robinson needs to dominate on the ground. The “bowling ball” last week had a dominant performance, rushing for 198 yards in their 45-31 win over Kentucky. He also showed the world he has some speed when he broke off a 73-yard touchdown last Saturday. He is currently the SEC’s leading rusher, and will need to have another big time performance to keep his crown.
All in all, this game will be an enjoyable game to watch. Arkansas will make some big plays and keep it close. MSU needs to take a step back out of the spotlight and get back to playing hard-nosed football. Arkansas has the ability to pull off the upset if the Bulldogs have another sub-par performance. Personally, I think the Bulldogs’ 12th man will be too much for the Razorbacks to handle, and defensive comes up with some huge turnovers.
Kickoff will take place this Saturday at 7:15 ET on ESPN2.
*Section Photo credit and Featured Photo (above) credit to Wesley Hitt, Getty Images.
