The Alabama Crimson Tide will begin SEC play this weekend when the Arkansas Razorbacks, led by quarterback Ryan Mallett, come to Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Razorbacks currently stand 1-1 on the young season following a tough 52-41 loss at the hands of the Georgia Bulldogs.
Alabama looks to improve to 4-0 on the season, but containing the high octane passing attack of Arkansas should be a daunting challenge. The Hogs are led by Michigan transfer Ryan Mallett who is currently the national leader in passing efficiency. Against Georgia, Mallett went 21-39 for 408 yards and 5 touchdowns. Thanks to Mallett, Arkansas currently ranks first in total offense in the SEC. The Alabama secondary will certainly have to step up in order to contain receivers Greg Childs and Jarius Wright who are the favorite targets of the Arkansas quarterback.
On the Alabama side of the ball, the Crimson Tide defense ranks first in total defense and first in rushing defense in the SEC. Offensively, quarterback Greg McElroy is 16th in the nation in total passing efficiency, and Alabama ranks fourth in total offense and second in total rushing offense, in the conference.
The Crimson Tide offense can take comfort in knowing the Arkansas pass defense is utterly dreadful. In the conference statistical categories of pass defense and pass defense efficiency, the Hogs are ranked 11th and 12th in the SEC. If ‘Bama quarterback Greg McElroy can receive time in the pocket to throw, the Crimson Tide offense will most likely shred the Razorback secondary.
In the Arkansas loss to Georgia, the Razorback secondary gave up 3 completions over 40 yards, and 6 completions over 25 yards. The Alabama ground game coupled with a very solid Crimson Tide receiving core, should spell doom for the Arkansas defense.
If the Tide defense can contain Ryan Mallett more times than not, the Alabama offense should provide the rest. Unless the contest comes down to an “aerial assault”…’Bama should take care of business. The Alabama secondary has been exposed a few times this year due to blown coverage, but the Arkansas defense has no coverage. Thus…the possible difference in the game.
Arkansas will score…but Alabama will simply score more. Talent usually wins in the end, and this game will be no exception. 'Bama is strong on both sides of the ball and by the second half Arkansas will begin to crumble.
Prediction: Alabama 38 Arkansas 21
Arkansas/Alabama will be televised nationally on CBS with kickoff expected around 2:35 p.m. central time.
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