Razorback vs. A&M Game Day Predictions
Passing Offense:
Arkansas had some bright spots last week in the passing game. Cobi Hamilton had a record setting performance with 303 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Tyler Wilson looks to only be sharper with having a full week of practice without controversy. Texas A&M is led by freshman quarterback Johnny Manziel and top wide receiver Mike Evans. With all the talent and Wilson pulling the trigger, I still give a slight edge to Arkansas in the passing department.
Advantage: Arkansas
Passing Defense:
Arkansas looked completely out of position throughout the game last week. They allowed Rutgers to pass for 397 yards, once again without the best cover corner in Tevin Mitchel. Texas A&M only allowed 189 passing yards during their 70-14 victory over South Carolina State. Arkansas seems to be lost in the secondary, making Texas A&M the clear favorite in this category.
Advantage: Texas A&M
Rushing Offense:
Arkansas plans to use running back Dennis Johnson more this week over Knile Davis. Davis is struggling this year with only 3.3 yard per carry, whereas Johnson is averaging 6.7 yards per carry. Texas A&M is led by Ben Malena who is averaging 6.6 yards per carry with only 145 total yards on the year. Texas A&M is more concentrated on the pass and the rushing ability of Manziel as well. Looking at the statistics both teams seem to be similar in rushing ability.
Advantage: Even
Rushing Defense:
Arkansas had some success stopping the run last week, only allowing 118 yards to Jawan Jamison. Texas A&M has done a good job against the run behind very talented defensive linemen, who have high NFL draft hopes. Arkansas has done a good job of containing the run at times, but Texas A&M has been very consistent and only allowed 17 points to Florida during their first game.
Advantage: Texas A&M
Special Teams:
Arkansas just doesn’t seem to have the same magic on special teams as in year’s past. Punter Dylan Breeding and Kicker Zach Hocker have been strong all year, but the return game has witnessed numerous muffed punts and not very many yards on return. Texas A&M”s Dustin Harris was recognized as Co-SEC Special Team Player of the week after last weeks performance. Texas A&M is making more big plays, and seems to have a bigger playmaker than Arkansas has shown thus far.
Advantage: Texas A&M
Coaching:
Arkansas can not seem to figure out the issues on the sideline. John L. Smith has got to get everyone on the same page, and rally the team to start playing better football. Texas A&M is coached by first year head coach Kevin Sumlin, who seems to have things working right now. They have been solid on defense all year, and have put up some gaudy offensive numbers the past two weeks.
Advantage: Texas A&M
Overall:
Texas A&M is overall the better team thus far. They have been more consistent on defense, and have produced more offensive production that Arkansas this year. Arkansas has beaten Texas A&M the last four years, but this year it could be a rough go in College Station. Arkansas is trying to correct what has been a disappointing year, and Texas A&M is looking ot climb higher in the SEC West race.
Advantage: Texas A&M
