Razorbackers staff predict Arkansas to bounce back against UAB

If beating themselves had a national award, the Hogs would be in the running every season. Arkansas fans are used to the heartbreak, but maybe not like we saw on Saturday.

Oklahoma State was on its heels in the first half, finding itself down 21 to 7. The more talented team was Arkansas, and it wasn't even close, but talent didn't matter. Mistake after mistake kept OK State in the game, and the veteran team took advantage. But that's enough of looking backward. It's time to focus on what's in front of the Hogs.

The Razorbacks have moved on to UAB. The Group of Five squad is one of the worst in the category. The Blazers smoked a bad FCS program in Alcorn State, 41-3, but lost to its first test ULM 32-6. Can Arkansas handle its business, or is it still hung up on last week's performance?

Staff Predictions: Arkansas vs. UAB

Matthew

Last week, Arkansas squandered away a golden opportunity for a top-25 win so it will be fascinating to see what kind of effort the Hogs put forth against UAB. Will they still be hungover from their deflating loss to Oklahoma State or will they be motivated to put their best foot forward regardless of the opponent. Playing on campus for the first time this year should help Sam Pittman’s team generate some extra energy.

The focus this week has to be cutting down on the self-inflicted mistakes, especially turnovers after those gaffes cost the Razorbacks a win in Stillwater. Fortunately, UAB is not a great Group of 5 team. Coming off of a 32-6 loss to Louisiana Monroe last week they likely won’t be the most confident team in the world heading to Fayetteville. Look for the Hogs to pick up a comfortable win in the final tune-up before SEC play begins next week at Auburn.

Arkansas 49 – UAB 10

Austin

Arkansas showed a lot of immaturity against Oklahoma State. Not only did their tendency to shoot themselves in the foot illustrate that, but the Razorbacks still had a chance to knock off the Pokes despite the self-inflected problems and couldn't finish.

But that's all it is. It's a newness of scheme, chemistry, and competition. Arkansas is an extremely explosive team with weapons all over the field. Once they're comfortable in the offense, the Hogs will be one of the most dangerous teams in the country. Former QB for Georgia, Aaron Murry, made that point in his excellent breakdown of last week's game, highlighting Taylen Green's timing.

Arkansas needs this game, a final tuneup, before diving into conference play. It's the last chance for the Hogs to polish their offense and fix mistakes. Look for Arkansas to come out swinging but focused on playing clean.

Arkansas 52 – UAB 10