If there is a game with two ranked opponents that would be considered “Under The Radar,” this would be that game. We have a stealth SEC matchup of two ranked teams that are looking to make some waves this season, with the Arkansas Razorbacks going up against the Texas A&M Aggies. The stakes are pretty high here, as the game will be played under the hot lights of “JERRY-WORLD,” AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Each of the last two matchups was decided by seven points in overtime, with Texas A&M winning both games.
Three Things to Watch
1. Battle in the Trenches
The battle up front is going to play a huge role in deciding which team wins on Saturday night. The Aggies and Razorbacks are strong on the defensive line, while both teams enter this game with some uncertainty up front. Will the Razorbacks provide enough protection for quarterback Austin Allen? And can this group clear enough rushing lanes against Texas A&M’s defensive front? Will the Aggies improved offensive line have the same amount of success against an active and stout Arkansas defensive line? Can Wise get to quarterback Trevor Knight?
2. Trevor Knight vs. Austin Allen
Quarterback play was a mystery for most of the SEC entering the 2016 season. However, a few preseason question marks have emerged as strengths. Texas A&M and Arkansas both have found the right answers under center, with Oklahoma graduate transfer Trevor Knight leading the Aggies, and Austin Allen guiding the Razorback attack. Both of these quarterbacks will have their hands full on Saturday night against tough defenses. Which quarterback will step up with a close game in store on Saturday?
3. The Playmakers
Both offenses possess their share of skill talent and rising stars to watch on Saturday night. For Texas A&M you have big-play threat and freshman Trayveon Williams ad Oklahoma transfer Keith Ford leading the way rushing wise, and Christian Kirk, Josh Reynolds, Ricky Seals-Jones and Speedy Noil are tough matchups for secondaries. For Arkansas, you have sophomore Rawleigh Williams, Kody Walker and talented freshman Devwah Whaley leading the ground attack, and Keon Hatcher, Drew Morgan, Jeremy Sprinkle and Dominique Reed leading a vastly underrated receiving attack. Which unit reigns supreme on Saturday night? It can be anyone’s guess.