Alabama football will host the Arkansas Razorbacks for its homecoming game on Saturday.
Kickoff is set for 11 a.m. CST. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN.
The staff at Touchdown Alabama provide their predictions and analysis of the game.
STEPHEN M. SMITH / SENIOR REPORTER
Alabama 35 – Arkansas 7
Key Insight: Alabama is in the second half of its season, and its rushing attack needs to come together.
Look for the Crimson Tide to establish its backs more and put an end to the musical chairs on its offensive line. I expect a solid performance from Jalen Milroe and the receivers, but the main thing will be the OL having a game to get its things in order. Watch tight end Amari Niblack too. Could be a marquee game for him.
Defensively, I expect Dallas Turner and Chris Braswell to get after KJ Jefferson. Arkansas offensive tackles are struggling so this should be a double-digit sacks game for Alabama. We could see some turnovers for the Tide’s defense too.
JUSTIN SMITH / SCOUTING/RECRUITING ANALYST
Alabama 35 – Arkansas 13
Key Insight: Arkansas has struggled to protect KJ Jefferson this season against good defensive fronts. Look for the Tide’s defense to take advantage by dialing up the pressure from different angles. Containment will also be key to stopping Jefferson and the Razorbacks as he can take advantage of running lanes with his athleticism.
The Crimson Tide need their running game to bounce back this week after struggling against a tough Texas A&M defensive front. This will be a great opportunity for Jalen Milroe to continue to grow as a passer and spread the ball around to the Tide’s weapons at wide receiver.
Patrick Dowd / Alabama Beat Reporter
Alabama 31 – Arkansas 14
Key Insight: With its first 11 a.m. kickoff of the season it’ll be easy for Alabama to overlook Arkansas. Sam Pittman’s crew walks into Bryant-Denny Stadium hungry for a signature win and to hopefully play spoiler in the SEC West. It won’t be a walk in the park but the development of Jalen Milroe as a passer accompanied by the elite Alabama defense will over match the Razorbacks.
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