Texas A&M is enjoying its best start in three decades, currently holding a No. 4 ranking and a perfect 6-0 record as they head into the latter half of the season. This week, the Aggies will face off against Arkansas with a chance to achieve a 7-0 record for the first time since 1994.
The Aggies (6-0, 3-0 SEC) have shown remarkable prowess in critical game situations this season, leading the nation in third-down defense and ranking 16th in red-zone offense. Quarterback Marcel Reed has emerged as a vital player, driving the team to significant road victories, including a noteworthy win against Notre Dame. Meanwhile, wide receiver Mario Craver has excelled, sitting third in the FBS with 634 receiving yards. On the defensive front, Cashius Howell has made his mark with eight sacks so far, a performance reminiscent of Myles Garrett’s in 2015.
As for Arkansas (2-4, 0-2), the team has been struggling but showed signs of life last week, narrowly losing to Tennessee 34-31 and suffering three one-possession losses on the road this season. Following the dismissal of head coach Sam Pittman, interim coach Bobby Petrino has injected some enthusiasm back into the program with a more dynamic offense, although the team’s defense remains a significant concern, ranking 120th in total defense and 117th in scoring nationally.
Historically, Texas A&M has dominated the rivalry against Arkansas, holding a 12-1 record since joining the SEC in 2012. The Southwest Classic has frequently taken place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, but this Saturday marks the first matchup in Fayetteville since 2013.
Arkansas boasts a standout performer in quarterback Taylen Green, who leads the FBS with 2,158 total yards at this season’s midpoint. He has thrown for 14 touchdowns against five interceptions while averaging 7.1 yards per carry. Green stands out as one of only a few quarterbacks to surpass 1,500 passing yards and 500 rushing yards in the first half of the season.
In a blow to Texas A&M, leading running back LeVeon Moss will not play due to an ankle injury, although he is expected to return later this season. Moss has been a key player for the Aggies, racking up 389 rushing yards and six touchdowns. Reuben Owens II will take over the primary rushing duties, having recently shown promise by carrying the ball 19 times on average and accumulating significant yardage over the last two weeks.
Petrino returns to the sidelines for Arkansas after a 14-year absence, with his return to the head coaching role bringing a wave of nostalgia. During his initial tenure, he was undefeated against the Aggies, but the tide has turned since his departure in 2012.
The exciting matchup is scheduled for Saturday, October 18, at 3:30 p.m. ET, taking place at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville and will be broadcast on ESPN.
Analysts predict that while Arkansas has the potential to upset an SEC competitor, its inconsistency and defensive struggles make Texas A&M the likely favorite. With Texas A&M boasting both speed and size, the Aggies appear well-equipped to manage the dynamic threat posed by Green. Given these factors, the expectation is set for a high-scoring contest, further fueled by unpredictable weather conditions that could affect gameplay.