Arkansas, Texas Set to Renew Old Rivalry in Fayetteville

Nov 14, 20242 min read

Arkansas football — © Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images

Arkansas (5-4, 3-3 Southeastern Conference) and No. 3 Texas (8-1, 4-1 SEC) will renew an old Southwest Conference rivalry at noon Eastern on Nov. 16 at Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Ark.

What's at Stake?

The Razorbacks are looking to clinch bowl eligibility for the fourth time in five seasons under head coach Sam Pittman. Texas and head coach Steve Sarkisian will try to further bolster their resume in the quest for a second consecutive College Football Playoff berth.

Key Players: Arkansas

The health of quarterback Taylen Green and running back Ja'Quinden Jackson will be paramount for Arkansas to have a chance at the upset. The mobility of Green is a huge asset for Arkansas every time he steps on the field, and if that's lost, it might not be a pretty showing.

The good news? Arkansas' defense has the potential to stop elite offenses, so long as it remembers to show up. Defensive end Landon Jackson can wreak havoc on any given Saturday as can Arkansas' talented core of defensive backs—when they wake up, that is.

Key Players: Texas

It's no secret that starting quarterback Ewers is the backbone of a Texas team with national championship aspirations. His leadership and other intangibles are backed up by a composed, straightforward style of play.

Ewers rarely puts the football in danger and takes what the defense gives him. That style of play could come in handy against an Arkansas team that was unable to stop the short passing game of LSU and the deep passing game of Ole Miss.

Trends to Watch

Texas may be hot at the moment, but it's Arkansas who is statistically due for a win. Arkansas is 3-3 in SEC play this season. After losing to Ole Miss on Nov. 2, it's Arkansas' turn to get back in the win column. The only issue? Texas doesn't care about trends or statistics. Texas should roll over Arkansas fairly easily, but don't be surprised if Arkansas sticks around for a quarter or two.