As is often the case in the sporting world, various media types will pick an upset because the “timing is right” or the “atmosphere is perfect”…etc.
Many times the “experts” share in the same delusion as many fans. Out of the clear blue sky facts become irrelevant and desire and the “home field advantage” trump all logic.
The Alabama/Arkansas contest on Saturday afternoon is the perfect example of “hype” over substance.
Hype over substance? Yes…that is correct.
In the sporting world, facts and wisdom so often take a backseat to the “sexy pick” and all that used to matter…becomes irrelevant.
Arkansas will win courtesy of Ryan Mallett, the home field advantage, a weak Alabama secondary, red towels, and pig calls.
Sounds like perfect logic…where do I sign?
The “hype” suggests that we ignore the fact that Arkansas is a one-dimensional football team on offense and the rise and fall of the entire offense will depend on one player.
The “hype” also suggests that we ignore the fact that Alabama will showcase two of the best running backs in the nation on Saturday afternoon.
Shall we ignore the fact the Arkansas offensive line will have a very tough time dealing with the Alabama defensive front?
Or…are we so “caught up” in the hype we just assume Ryan Mallett will have four seconds to throw every single time?
The commentary above is not a “dig” at Arkansas or the fans of the Razorbacks.
The commentary above is a dig at “expert” media types who several times a year (when they see fit) will put logic “out to pasture” in favor of the well-oiled, “hype machine.”
Arkansas is a quality football team with quality fans, but when the Hogs have nothing to scream about come Saturday night…don’t blame your team.
Blame the media who built the game up to be the “Super Bowl Gone College” when it was simply nothing more than another road game for the No. 1 team in the nation.
ALABAMA 38
ARKANSAS 24
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