Arkansas Football vs. UAPB: Scouting Report, Prediction for Razorbacks' First Game of 2024

Scouting Report

Arkansas Razorbacks

* 2023 Record: 9-4 (5-3 SEC) * Returning Starters: 10 on offense, 8 on defense * Strengths: Passing game, wide receivers, running backs * Weaknesses: Defensive line, secondary

UAPB Golden Lions

* 2023 Record: 5-6 (4-4 SWAC West) * Returning Starters: 7 on offense, 6 on defense * Strengths: Running game, pass rush * Weaknesses: Passing game, offensive line

Prediction

Arkansas should be heavily favored in this matchup. The Razorbacks have a much more talented and experienced roster than UAPB. Additionally, Arkansas has the home-field advantage. However, UAPB has shown some flashes of potential in recent years. The Golden Lions have won four of their last six games, including an upset of Grambling State. If UAPB can get a strong performance from its running game and pass rush, it could potentially pull off an upset. But Arkansas is simply the more talented team and should be able to win this game comfortably.

Key Matchups

* Arkansas passing game vs. UAPB secondary: Arkansas has one of the best passing attacks in the SEC, led by quarterback KJ Jefferson. UAPB's secondary is young and inexperienced, so Jefferson should be able to find success through the air. * UAPB running game vs. Arkansas defensive line: UAPB has a solid running game, led by running back Kayvon Thibodeaux. Arkansas's defensive line is one of the weakest units on the team, so Thibodeaux could have a big day. * Arkansas wide receivers vs. UAPB pass rush: Arkansas has a talented group of wide receivers, led by Jadon Haselwood and Ketron Jackson. UAPB's pass rush is one of the best in the SWAC, so it will be interesting to see how the Razorbacks' wide receivers handle the pressure.