Arkansas will host No. 4 Tennessee on Saturday inside Razorback Stadium, marking the team's first home game in SEC play in the 2024 season. Here are some true and false statements about Saturday's contest.
Arkansas vs. Tennessee: True or False
True: Arkansas will cover the spread
Tennessee is only favored by 13.5 points in this game - a number that seems a tad low considering the trajectory of both teams. However, Arkansas has a tendency to play up to its competition, as they showed on Sept. 7 against Oklahoma State. Arkansas may not win or even have a chance to win in the fourth quarter, but at the very least, they'll find a way to make some bettors happy.
False: Tennessee will score more than 40 points
This isn't a shot at Tennessee's elite offense, but rather, a shoutout to a Razorback defense that's been surprisingly stout so far in 2024. Through two SEC games, Arkansas' defense has easily been the team's most dependable unit. The Vols will get their fair share of yards and points on Saturday, but don't be surprised if Travis Williams' group holds Tennessee to a below-average showing.
True: Taylen Green will account for at least three touchdowns
It seems as if Razorback fans have given up on Green, who was forced to run for his life for much of Arkansas' game against Texas A&M. Green has proven that he is an effective passer when given time to throw - and the ability to improvise - and Arkansas will need their quarterback to play well in order to have a chance. Green may not be able to lead Arkansas to a stunning upset victory, but he'll do his part against a solid Tennessee defense.
False: Ja'Quinden Jackson will be held to under four yards per carry
After bulldozing his way through the competition over the first four games of the season, Jackson has hit a bit of a road block to open SEC play. He was held to just 3.4 yards per carry against Auburn, and only 3.7 against Texas A&M. Running the ball against a stout Tennessee front won't be easy, but Jackson will return to form and break off at least a couple big runs.
True: The game will be within 10 points at halftime
Whether or not Arkansas can hang with Tennessee for four quarters remains to be seen, but their strong performance against Oklahoma State shouldn't be forgotten. Razorback Stadium will be filled with 76,000 raucous fans, and the Hogs will undoubtedly be motivated after a disappointing loss to Texas A&M. While many expect this game to be a blowout, Arkansas will fight hard enough to stay in the game, at least in the first half.
False: Taylen Green will be sacked five times or more
Sam Pittman knows that Arkansas' offensive line must play better in order for Arkansas to go to a bowl game. The boys in the trenches have a tough test ahead of them, but this week, Arkansas' offensive line will show marked improvement. It won't be easy to move Tennessee's defensive lineman, but Arkansas' offensive line will, at the very least, keep Green upright for most of the game.