The matchup between Arkansas and LSU this weekend carries layers of intrigue, uncertainty, and desperation. Two programs in transition, both operating under interim head coaches, enter Tiger Stadium with something to prove. LSU, once favored by 5.5 points, has dropped to a 4.5-point favorite, largely due to quarterback QB Garrett Nussmeier being listed as doubtful. Meanwhile, Arkansas arrives hungry for its first SEC win in over a year.
LSU’s QB Situation and Offensive Outlook
With Nussmeier unlikely to play, sophomore QB Michael Van Buren is expected to get the start. His dual-threat ability immediately changes the complexion of LSU’s offense. Van Buren brings mobility, improvisation, and a play extension element that has been missing for much of the season.
This will also mark interim head coach Frank Wilson’s first game leading LSU inside Tiger Stadium. Add in the fact that play-caller Alex Atkins is entering only his second game in the role, and the Tigers’ offense becomes one of the most unpredictable units of Week 12.
The question becomes whether this reconfigured offense can generate enough points to win a game that could turn into a shootout. LSU has struggled to score against FBS opponents this season, and with so much change on the sideline and under center, consistency will be difficult to find.
Can LSU’s Defense Contain Taylen Green?
If LSU is going to win, their defense must carry the load. That’s easier said than done against Taylen Green and an Arkansas offense capable of exploding at any moment. Green’s dual-threat ability has carved up defenses all season, and he is quietly one of the SEC’s most underrated quarterbacks.
Arkansas ranks eighth nationally in total offense at 484.4 yards per game and 21st in scoring at 35.4 points per game. With Green, running back Mike Washington, and wideout Omega Blake, the Razorbacks have a trio that can stress LSU in ways few opponents have this year. The Tigers’ defense, arguably the team’s overall strength, must rise to the occasion or risk getting overwhelmed.
Arkansas Keeps Fighting Despite Its Record
Arkansas sits at 2-7, but don’t let that fool you, they’ve been competitive. Five of their last seven losses have been decided by six points or fewer. Under interim coach Bobby Petrino, the Razorbacks continue to play with energy, defiance, and belief.
While the defense remains a liability, the offense has more than compensated, producing fireworks almost every week. No SEC defense has fully solved them yet, and if this game turns into a scoring battle, LSU may not have the offensive firepower to keep up.
LSU Must Avoid a Shootout
The Tigers cannot afford a track-meet-style game. Their offense isn’t built for it right now, especially with a new quarterback stepping into the spotlight for the first time. LSU needs to control tempo, win time of possession, and rely heavily on its defense.
Arkansas, meanwhile, will welcome chaos. The Razorbacks thrive in shootouts and their offense is built to pressure LSU early and often.
If LSU takes the Razorbacks lightly, it could be disastrous. Arkansas is starving for its first SEC win this season and won’t be intimidated by Tiger Stadium, especially facing an LSU team dealing with instability and a three-game losing streak.
Final Thoughts
This game is strength-on-strength and weakness-on-weakness. Arkansas brings one of the SEC’s most explosive offenses. LSU counters with a defense capable of rising to the moment. Conversely, LSU struggles to score, while Arkansas’ defense often provides more questions than answers.
Expect points. Expect chaos. Expect momentum swings. This matchup can go either way and both programs desperately need a spark in what has been a brutal season on each sideline.