Texas A&M vs. Arkansas 2017: Preview, Game Time, TV Channel, odds and more

Time: 11 a.m. CT/Noon ET

TV: ESPN

Stream: WatchESPN

Spread: A&M -2.5

O/U: 53.5

Series Review

41-29-3 Arkansas (A&M won last 5)

The recent history between these two teams has been rather one-sided. There’ve been tough games throughout, but A&M is on a 5-game winning streak stretching back to 2012. Kevin Sumlin was just in his first year as the head coach of the Aggies when it began. Last year’s game in Arlington was a 21-point win for the A&M 45-24.

2-1 Texas A&M Aggies

This Aggies team has caught a lot of heat for their Week 1 performance and collapse against UCLA. But two less than dominant showings against FCS Nicholls State and UL Lafayette have left this team needing to prove themselves this week. Sumlin’s seat has been growing hotter week after week it seems. He’s also been at the front of the news off the field too, thanks to a racist letter sent to his home. He is a coach with a team that is in need of a great win to calm the tides.

1-1 Arkansas Razorbacks

After hammering Florida A&M Week 1, the Hogs put up a very disappointing effort against TCU, losing 28-7. After not playing last week, this team could use a good bounce back against their southwest rival . Bret Bielema’s seat is warming up too to say the least. For this team, a great game would be what they need and the only way this team can make it over the hump is to pull through this weekend.

Keys To the Game

Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images

2 things for Texas A&M

Jump out early and take control of the crowd: For the Aggies, this game is being played in Texas, and they have dominated this team over the recent years. Early offense and some great defense could be the difference.

Finish every play: This is a team that is tired of hearing the struggles they have had this year. Most of them have stemmed from not being able to finish games or finish teams off. The Aggies have to play like every snap is the deciding snap. If they do this, they might not just win but they might finally put on the performance that everyone has been looking for.

Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images

2 Things for Arkansas

Physically dominate: The thing that I always think about with Arkansas is they are typically a physical team that can push you around. This has been a problem so far this year as the O-line has struggled. If they are able to run the ball and weaken the athletes on that Aggies D, then they will be in a prime position to win this game.

Turnovers!!!: The thing that has bothered the Aggies so far this season is less then good looking offense. If the Hogs can get to the QB, they can force some bad throws or fumbles and create easy offense.

Prediction

In a long hard game, with two teams and two coaches needing this victory, I’m going to lean on the winning streak of the Aggies. I think they have looked better, and their defense will outperform the Hogs D and hold them to little. Late touchdowns and explosive plays make the score look worse than the game will really be but...

Texas A&M 34, Arkansas 14