What the Hogs Need to Do Against Mississippi State

The Hogs and Bulldogs are two of three teams still searching for their first SEC win this season, along with Kentucky. Now Arkansas and Mississippi State will battle it out in Fayetteville, and one will finally break through. With recent struggles on both sides of the ball, the Hogs will need a complete performance to secure their elusive conference victory.

Hogs Need to Slow Down the Passing Attack

Arkansas continues to struggle against the pass, allowing 242 yards per game, the third most in the SEC. Mississippi State, led by quarterback Blake Shapen, ranks fifth in the conference in passing yards per game at 246. The Bulldogs spread the ball around efficiently, with six players recording at least 100 receiving yards. Wideouts Brenen Thomas and Anthony Evans II are the top threats, with Thomas leading the team at 609 yards and Evans close behind at 542. The Razorbacks’ secondary will need to stay disciplined and limit explosive plays to keep Shapen in check.

Hogs Need to Establish the Run Game

The Razorbacks boast one of the SEC’s most potent rushing attacks, averaging 205 yards per game. However, last week’s showing against Auburn was uncharacteristic, as Arkansas managed just 63 yards on the ground. The Hogs must get running back Mike Washington Jr. going again. Washington, who ranks third in the conference with 712 rushing yards, has been one of the driving forces in Arkansas’ offense. Establishing the ground game early and controlling time of possession will be key if the Hogs want to stop their six-game skid.

Hogs Need to Limit Turnovers

Turnovers once again doomed the Hogs last week against Auburn. Arkansas entered the fourth quarter with a lead but committed four costly turnovers, allowing the Tigers to rally with 17 unanswered points. To finally notch their first SEC win, the Razorbacks must take care of the football and avoid giving Mississippi State extra possessions, especially with their defensive struggles this season.

What It Means

This matchup is critical for both programs. For Arkansas, a win would snap a six-game losing streak and give interim coach Bobby Petrino his first SEC victory since returning to Fayetteville. For Mississippi State, it’s a chance to climb out of the conference cellar. Whichever team executes better and avoids costly mistakes will walk away with a much-needed win.