1. Forget Last Week
The cliché, “just take one game at a time” has been used for years in sports. Most often, it is used for teams that have big games in the weeks ahead, but it can also apply to teams coming off bad losses. Arkansas should not have lost to the University of Louisiana-Monroe, and everyone knows it. The Razorbacks must completely put the ULM game out of their minds in order to compete against Alabama.
2. No Needless Penalties
Two weeks in a row, Arkansas has been penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct for hitting a player after he was out of bounds. These penalties give opponents a first down and move them up 15 yards. With an offense as potent as Alabama’s, Arkansas can’t afford to give them second chances. Likewise, if the Hogs are moving the ball on Alabama’s stiff defense, they can’t afford to lose yards with false starts.
3. Offensive/Defensive Line
The Crimson Tide is known for its hard-nosed, physical play on both sides of the ball. On the offensive line, Alabama is led by reigning Outland Trophy winner Barrett Jones, as well as two other potential first-round NFL draft picks (D.J. Fluker and Chance Warmack). They open gaping holes for running backs and provide quarterback A.J. McCarron ample time to find open receivers. On the defensive line, Alabama averages 6’4” 299 lbs. two deep. They’ll challenge Arkansas’ relatively inexperienced offensive line. Both Arkansas lines must step up their game, and players must fill the holes left in the offense and defense by Kiero Small and Tevin Mitchel, respectively, if Arkansas is to have a chance.
4. Wrap Up on Defense
Several plays against ULM almost resulted in sacks, but Arkansas defenders couldn’t bring down quarterback Kolton Browning. They were getting a hand on him but never wrapped him up, allowing him to escape and make plays. Also, when the Hogs hit ULM’s running backs and wide receivers, it usually took a couple players to tackle them. If Arkansas gets past Alabama’s stellar offensive line, they must capitalize and sack McCarron or tackle their running back.
5. Fan Support
Arkansas is coming off its most embarrassing loss since losing to The Citadel in 1992, and some would argue this is worse than that loss. Fans are not happy, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t support the team. The players have practiced all year and are not going out there and intentionally losing. Hog fans that boo them should be ashamed of themselves. As much as players say they don’t listen to negativity, they still hear it. If Arkansas fans pack out Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium, it becomes a very hostile environment for the visiting team. Fans need to come and encourage the team so that the Razorbacks can make the most of the home field advantage.
Andrew Hutchinson is a Staff Writer for The Arkansas Traveler
