Arkansas Razorbacks Football: Mississippi State Knowing the Enemy
By Tommy Tabler
The Arkansas Razorbacks will look to slow down Mississippi State this week, and it is time get to know the Mississippi State Bulldogs.
Before the football season started many Hog, fans looked at three schools as being possible winnable games. The Mississippi State Bulldogs were one of those schools. Many SEC fans figured that the Air Raid would not have the impact that it has in the Big 12 and the Pac-12. Early indicators on that assumption appear to be incorrect. With Mississippi State on the horizon it is time to get to know the Bulldogs.
The offensive side of the ball has Mike Leach calling the plays and will look to push the ball down the field. Leach is an aggressive play caller who will call the same play over and over, especially when it is gashing the opponent. Leach has his quarterback in place in KJ Costello. Costello has been underestimated most of his college football career and he is a talented signal caller, who if he can cut down on the turnovers could have an all-conference season.
Running back Kylin Hill has become a threat in the rushing and receiving game. Hill lit up LSU with 192 total yards and a touchdown reception. The Arkansas defense will need to account for wide receiver Osirus Mitchell who racked up 183 yards receiving and two touchdowns. Mississippi State’s offense was clicking on all cylinder against LSU and finding a way to slow it down is Arkansas defensive coordinator Barry Odom’s main concern.
Meanwhile, the Arkansas offensive line will need to account for Mississippi State defensive end Marquiss Spencer. Spencer sacked LSU quarterback Myles Brennan twice and was disruptive most of the game. Linebacker Aaron Brule was all over the field for the Bulldogs against the Bayou Bengals as well. It will be important to not get caught up looking at the flash of the Mike Leach and offense and remember the defensive side of the ball is a very talented unit as well.
A road trip to Starkville is never an easy one but this will be another test for Sam Pittman and his Arkansas Razorbacks. Look for a competitive contest and for the effort to be there on Saturday. Arkansas gives plenty of effort and right now that is what fans are wanting to see.