The setting for Alabama’s fourth game is Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Ark.
Alabama cruised to a 52-3 victory in its 2020 meeting against the Razorbacks on the road, en route to a College Football Playoff National Championship. Since then, Arkansas has changed the culture of its program under Sam Pittman. The Razorbacks finished last season at 9-4 and are 3-1 right now. Arkansas and its fans believe it can win any game on its schedule.
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The last time the Crimson Tide and Hogs had a close game in Fayetteville was in 2014.
Weather conditions were horrible, but Blake Sims and Alabama’s defense pushed it to a 14-13 victory. Arkansas wants to keep this matchup close so its fans will remain engaged. Many factors should play a role, but Alabama’s keys to victory are below.
1. Take Arkansas’ crowd out of the game
Arkansas fans are ready for the game against Alabama.
After suffering a loss to Texas A&M, Razorback fans enter the contest with marquee energy and motivation.
Texas fans came into its week two matchup with the Crimson Tide under much hype and expectations. The Longhorn fans created noise and caused frustration for Alabama’s players. The Tide had 15 penalties and could not move the ball on offense against the ‘Horns. Alabama has to take Arkansas’ crowd out of the game with long drives, big plays, and effective execution on offense.
Defensively, it has to shut KJ Jefferson and Razorbacks down.
2. Win time of possession battle
Alabama and Arkansas both want to control the game’s pace.
Sam Pittman does not want Bryce Young and the Crimson Tide’s offense on the field a lot, but Nick Saban can’t have KJ Jefferson and the Razorbacks milking the clock. Time of possession can be a meaningless stat; however, this game will show it as one of importance. Whichever team controls the flow and trenches will win the game. Alabama has to impose its will on Arkansas.
3. Win on third down
Third-down efficiency is crucial for Alabama.
Offensively, it has to put long drives together to wear down Arkansas. Defensively, the Crimson Tide has to get off the field on third down. Alabama’s defense has excelled in this category, allowing opponents to convert 18.6 percent on third downs.
The Tide is good about moving the chains offensively, but it must be consistent against the Razorbacks.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
