Can Arkansas upset back-to-back top-10 teams? Razorbackers staff predictions

I don't think it's much hyperbole to say that this is the most impactful game of Sam Pittman's career. No, he's not fighting for his job anymore; he probably earned himself another season after last week's win against Tennessee. However, if Arkansas wins against LSU, the doors start opening for this team, and the conversation about the Razorbacks being a dark horse College Football Playoff team will start.

Can Arkansas pull off another top-10 upset in Fayetteville? Or is it just a pipe dream? Here, the Razorbackers staff give their opinions and predictions for Saturday's game:

Razorbackers staff predictions: Arkansas football vs LSU

Matthew

The battle for the Golden Boot is a huge opportunity for Arkansas to take another step forward after stunning Tennessee two weeks ago. It is fair to wonder how this team will respond after going through an open week while having everyone in the state patting them on the back.

The key matchup in this game will be Arkansas’ defensive line, which got four sacks against Tennessee, vs. a stout LSU offensive line that has given up only two sacks all year. The fact that this is a home game for the Hogs is huge and will propel Sam Pittman’s team to another big win.

Arkansas 27 – LSU 24

Sam

Similar to 2022, this will be a defensive slugfest. Expect another standout performance from Travis Williams' defense. Arkansas wins in a thriller that moves the Hogs into the top-25.

Arkansas16 – LSU 13

Austin

LSU is a one-trick pony on offense, but that one trick is a great one. The Tigers are the sixth-best team in the country through the air, raking in 337 yards per game. Garrett Nussmeier has stepped up in a way that most thought he wouldn't, and the LSU offense is humming, regardless of how putrid its running game has been. After its win against Ole Miss, the LSU's defense looks like it's starting to figure it out... Or is it?

I'll be the first to tell you I think Ole Miss is fraudulent. I'm not as impressed with the LSU's performance as most in the media. The Razorbacks are better than LSU in pass defense efficiency, rush offense/defense efficiency, third-down offense/defense, and offensive/defense explosive plays. That's why the Hogs bring back the Golden Boot. The Hogs win in a fun one.

Arkansas 34 – LSU 31