Sep 52 min read

Arkansas Meets Oklahoma State in a Pivotal Week 2 Contest

Arkansas Football — © Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images

Few Week 2 games carry the distinction of making or breaking a team's season.

For the Arkansas Razorbacks, (1-0) such a game might take place on their road trip to Stillwater, Okla. on Sept. 7, when they take on the No. 16 Oklahoma State Cowboys (1-0) in what will undoubtedly be a raucous Boone Pickens Stadium.

Despite an early noon EST kickoff time, both teams will need to be sharp for this clash between Southeastern Conference and Big 12 Conference foes, as it could have major implications for both squads going forward.

What's At Stake?

As a team with College Football Playoff aspirations, Oklahoma State should see this game as a must-win. Beating Arkansas isn't a headline to put on a team's résumé—at least, not at the moment—but defending home turf and securing a win over an SEC opponent will always be important.

It's fair to say that Arkansas has much more to gain than Oklahoma State, as a road win over a top-25 team could push the Razorbacks into the rankings themselves and give them a shot in the arm after a disappointing season in 2023. If there were ever a time for Sam Pittman to grab his first true statement win since 2021, it'd be on Sept. 7 in Stillwater.

Key Players: Oklahoma State

Cowboys running back Ollie Gordon II is one of the best backs in the country, and he showed why in Oklahoma State's season-opening win over South Dakota State (0-1). Gordon ran for 126 yards and a touchdown on Aug. 31, and getting him to the ground will be the biggest key for Arkansas to come away with a victory.

Safety Trey Rucker will lead the Cowboys' defense into battle on Saturday fresh off of winning the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week. Rucker tallied 15 tackles against the Jackrabbits, and his efforts will be needed in a game that has the potential to turn into a shootout.

Key Players: Arkansas

After just one game with Bobby Petrino roaming the sidelines as Arkansas' offensive coordinator, the Razorbacks' offense seems rejuvenated. Pine Bluff (0-1) isn't elite competition by any means, however, and if there's a litmus test for how Arkansas will fare offensively in 2024, it's their matchup in Stillwater. Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy has built a reputation as a venerable defensive mind, but that doesn't mean quarterback Taylen Green and RB Ja'Quinden Jackson aren't up to the task of breaking down the Cowboys defense.

Jackson gained 101 rushing yards on just 8 carries against the Golden Lions, while Green flashed both running ability and passing acumen in Arkansas' season opener. If Green's mobility makes the trip with him to Stillwater, it could be a long day for the Cowboys defensive line.

Trends to Watch

There's not a whole lot to take away from these two teams' Week 1 stompings of FCS competition, but one thing is clear—both squads boast flashy offenses and physical defenses. Whether or not those translate into wins in conference play is yet to be seen, but this contest will be the best test for both the Hogs and Cowboys before they begin their respective conference slates.