Razorbackers' staff predict Arkansas football to outmatch UAPB

Arkansas is taking on FCS opponent Arkansas Pine Bluff in Little Rock today.  It’s the second meeting between the programs in three years. However, UAPB Is the first in-state team the University of Arkansas has played since the 40s.

The Razorbacks overwhelmed UAPB in 2021, beating the Golden Lions 45–3. In 2024, the difference in talent is about the same, but will the score reflect that? Here are the staff predictions for UAPB vs Arkansas.

Staff predictions: UAPB

Austin

The biggest key to this game is for Arkansas to stay healthy. With Oklahoma State around the corner, the Razorbacks don’t need to risk losing depth against Arkansas Pine Bluff. But at the same time, the Hogs need not overlook their FCS opponent.

With Sam Pittman on the hot seat, this is his first shot to prove he’s the man for the job. To do that, Arkansas needs to play clean, smart football: limit turnovers, lean on the running game, and limit big plays on defense. I think that’s precisely what they do. Arkansas will go up big early and pull their starters by the second half. Arkansas walks away with a big victory margin.

Final Score: Arkansas 55 - UAPB 10

Matthew

It will be important for Arkansas to get off to a solid start against UAPB to not only cool Sam Pittman’s seat (if only momentarily) but also to give the team and Razorback fans some confidence heading into a tough week-two game at Oklahoma State.

The Golden Lions will try to control the clock and shorten this game but it won’t matter. New Arkansas O.C. Bobby Petrino will use his advantage along the offensive line where his S.E.C. athletes should overwhelm this FCS opponent. Even with RB Rashod Dubinion banged up and unlikely to start he Hogs will rack up a ton of rushing yards on their way to a comfortable win. The only question will be how much the starters will play as they try to work out the kinks ahead of next week’s trip to Stillwater.

Final Score: Arkansas 42 – UAPB 14