The Razorbacks started strong in Baton Rouge, using early momentum to shock the home crowd. Arkansas came out swinging, blocking a punt for a touchdown and later seeing QB Taylen Green run in an 11-yard score late in the first quarter. The defense held LSU to two early three-and-outs, giving the Razorbacks control and energy to start the game.
Statistically, the first half has been remarkably even. Both teams have two sacks, 120 passing yards, and near-identical rushing totals: Arkansas with 59 yards, LSU with 60. Taylen Green leads the Razorbacks in rushing, while Caden Durham is LSU’s top ground threat.
The difference so far has been turnovers. Arkansas’ two interceptions gifted LSU short fields and six points, allowing the Tigers to take a 16-14 lead despite comparable production elsewhere. LSU also put together two long, sustained drives, finding rhythm and keeping the Arkansas defense on the field. While the Razorbacks’ defense hasn’t played poorly, the extra time on the field and constant short-field situations seemed to them down in the second quarter.
Arkansas needs a second half resembling their first-quarter performance to have a chance on the road. Early momentum was key in silencing the LSU crowd, but going into halftime down by two points puts the Razorbacks in a precarious spot as they hunt for their first SEC win of the season. Resetting and refocusing will be critical. The turnovers and penalties have been the story of Arkansas’ year, and continuing down that path could derail their chances once again.