Preview: Texas A&M Battles Arkansas in Arlington

How to Watch and Stream:

Time: Noon ET

TV: ESPN

Stream: WatchESPN

Gamblin’ Odds

Texas A&M is a 23 point favorite, with the Over/Under set at 60.5

With an interesting start time and location in JerryWorld(AT&T Stadium in Arlington), both teams are itching for a victory to turn the season around. Don’t be fooled, this is a heated game for both sides.

Arkansas used to run the Aggies off the field when I was a teenager, but last season A&M won a close one over the Razorbacks.

Arkansas is still trying to find their QB. Their starter currently is ex-Aggie Nick Starkel, who is coming off one of his worst performances. There’s a chance that they rotate QBs, but considering Starkel is familiar with the Aggie defense we’ll have to see. The running game is still solid with Last Chance U favorite Rakeem Boyd being the primary running back. He has a chance to torch the A&M defense, and a big game from him could secure the Razorbacks a season defining win. If they limit the turnovers against A&M, who have a pretty active secondary, they should be able to hold their own. 3rd down is also important, as the Aggies have only allowed a conversion percentage of 26.9.

The Razorback defense is also going to be a challenge. Kellen Mond is going to be looking for a better performance after struggling versus No.1 Clemson and No.7 Auburn the past two weeks. With the talent the Aggies have at receiver, the corners for the Razorbacks are going to have their hands full.

The Aggies need to win this game to turn their season around. Kellen Mond should be able to take advantage of Time of Possession. He’s had a handful of interceptions, which is hurting the Aggie offense. Isaiah Spiller and JaShaun Corbin have been productive on the ground, but need to be the 1-2 punch for the Aggies offense. Composure is key, and if the turnovers come early they will struggle.

The Aggie defense should focus on containing Rakeem Boyd. He is an electric running back and should be the guy carrying the load for the Razorbacks. The linebackers have held their own this season and the secondary has stepped up, but they need to return to form. Limiting penalties for the Aggies is a priority.

I think this is a tight game, as both teams despise each other. In a true battle in Arlington, I think the Aggies win a close game.

Final Score: Texas A&M wins 23-20