The Razorbacks are on to their season finale against Missouri after a season that's left many with mixed feelings. A win over the Tigers could sway the program back into the good graces of the fanbase. Mizzou might be overrated, but the game on Saturday should be quite the battle.
Statistically, Missouri has one of the best defenses in the country. Of course, its schedule wasn't the hardest, but the No. 16 defense is hard to obtain, regardless. With Arkansas's uncanny ability to shoot itself in the foot, the game might rest on the Razorbacks' ability to stop Mizzou's offense.
Razorbackers sat down with Truman's Tales Site Expert, Zack Sweet, to learn more about what Arkansas faces heading into Columbia.
Q & A with Truman's Tales' site expert Zack Sweet
Q: As a native Arkansan, this game means more to Eli Drinkwitz than most in the Natural State. How does the Mizzou fanbase feel about the Battleline Rivalry?
A: Mizzou's fanbase will always show up for the Arkansas game. I'm from Chicago, and new to the rivalry, but since getting to Mizzou in 2022 I've quickly picked up on the importance of this game.
Both teams want it badly every year, and with Drinkwitz at the helm, I'm sure it only adds to Battleline rivalry. Especially given the recent recruiting battles, I think Arkansas will have a fire lit under them as well. Should be a doozy on Saturday and I'm sure the fanbase will show out.
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Q: One of the things that separates the SEC from the other Power Four conferences is talent in the trenches. How do you see that matchup shaking out between Arkansas and Missouri?
A: I can't speak to Arkansas' play in the trenches this season, but Mizzou's has been solid for the most part. The offensive line is a strength for Missouri and I'd expect them to lean on that unit again on Saturday.
Last week, granted it was Mississippi State, Mizzou was able to run the ball with ease, picking up over 200 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns on 56 carries. The defensive line hasn't been as good at times, but the defensive front is definitely stronger than the secondary. I think you're correct in saying that the trenches will have a major effect on the outcome of the game.
Q: Arkansas's quarterback Taylen Green has been hit-or-miss this season, but he has the skill set to break out at any moment. How does Mizzou contain him?
A: Quarterbacks with the ability of Taylen Green have given Missouri fits all season and I'd expect Saturday to be no different. Green's got great ability and in all likelihood, I'd expect him to have a big game.
The secondary has been a mess with most of the defensive backs getting picked on throughout. Communication has also been a struggle for that unit and I would expect at least one breakdown if Mizzou is running a majority zone, but it'll be interesting to see what Corey Batoon dials up in order to contain Green.
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Q: Missouri has a great pair of receivers in Wease and Burden III. What can Arkansas fans expect to see from them this weekend?
A: Expect to see much of what we've seen all season. Two of the most talented players in the SEC continuously getting open downfield. The issue hasn't been them, it's been shaky quarterback play throughout.
Brady Cook is finally getting healthy, however, and last week he put together his most complete performance of the season. If Cook plays the way he did last week, both the receivers will benefit and it could lead to a big performance from Wease and Burden, both of whom are potentially playing their final collegiate games.
Q: Brady Cook has shown considerable leadership and toughness this season, especially during the Auburn game. How has he progressed since the last time he faced the Hogs?
A: I don't know how much he's progressed, in all honesty. He played awesome against Arkansas last season and all Mizzou can hope for is the same performance he delivered a year ago.
It'll be interesting to see how Cook comes out in his final game as a Missouri Tiger given how much he cares about this team. Cook really just needs to be a game manager on Saturday, getting the ball in the hands of playmakers down field.
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Q: Johnny Walker has been a menace on the defensive line, recording nine TFLs and 6.5 sacks. How does he perform against an offensive line that's struggled to protect the QB at times?
A: Johnny Walker will get his, for sure. I think he played even more motivated last week after letting the South Carolina game slip out of his hands. Walker is also someone who has been with Missouri's program since 2020, which is a rarity in college football right now. Walker is going to show up in his final game at Faurot Field, I can almost guarantee that.
Q: Besides the players we've already discussed, who are some Missouri players Arkansas fans need to know before the game?
A: Obviously the likes of Brady Cook, Luther Burden, and Johnny Walker will all be playing their final collegiate game, but watch out for Armand Membou, Mizzou's right tackle. I think he's one of the premier linemen in all of college football and his impact will be felt on Saturday.
Nate Noel has been great running behind him all season and I'd expect Saturday to be no different. Defensively, the secondary has been a mess, but on the defensive line, Florida transfer Chris McClellan is having a great season and he's another player to look out for.