Tennessee Volunteers vs Arkansas Razorbacks Picks and Predictions January 4th 2025

No. 1 Tennessee not satisfied entering SEC opener vs. No. 23 Arkansas

Tennessee Volunteers, ranked No. 1 in the nation, are off to their best start in over a century with an impressive 13-0 record. However, as they gear up for their Southeastern Conference (SEC) opener against the No. 23 Arkansas Razorbacks on Saturday in Knoxville, head coach Rick Barnes insists that rankings are meaningless without accomplishments in conference play.

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Tennessee’s Unwavering Focus

“We’re 0-0 like everybody else,” Barnes said. “Rankings mean nothing. The only thing that matters is proving ourselves on the court, starting with SEC play.”

The Volunteers’ dominance this season is undeniable, with seven wins by 20 or more points. A victory over Arkansas would tie their best-ever start of 14-0, set during the 1922-23 season. Despite this, Barnes continues to challenge his team to stay grounded and improve.

Key Players Driving Tennessee’s Success

1. Chaz Lanier – Sharpshooter Leading the Charge
   The transfer from North Florida has been a revelation, leading the Volunteers with 19.6 points per game while shooting 45.9% from beyond the arc. Lanier has scored 20+ points in six games this season, including a 24-point performance against Norfolk State on Tuesday.“Chaz is a great talent, but he still has room to grow,” Barnes noted. “We’re pushing him to add more speed and adapt to our up-tempo style.”
2. Zakai Zeigler – The Engine of the Offense
   Senior point guard Zakai Zeigler has been instrumental in Tennessee’s success, averaging 11.7 points and a team-high 8.1 assists per game. With 577 career assists, Zeigler is tied for second in program history and continues to elevate his game.His leadership and ability to set the pace will be pivotal as Tennessee faces its toughest test yet this season.

Arkansas Razorbacks: A Team on the Rise

Under the leadership of first-year head coach John Calipari, the Razorbacks (11-2) enter the matchup with momentum, riding a six-game winning streak. The highlight of their season thus far is an 89-87 victory over then-No. 14 Michigan in New York.

“Every game is going to be a dogfight,” said freshman guard Boogie Fland, a standout who averages 15.9 points and 6.2 assists per game. “We’re ready to compete and prove ourselves in SEC play.”

Key Players to Watch

1. Boogie Fland – Rising Star
   Fland has demonstrated poise beyond his years, committing just five turnovers in the past four games. His 24-point, five 3-pointer performance against Oakland showcased his offensive potential.“When he competes, he’s as good as anybody,” Calipari said.
2. Adou Thiero – Razorbacks’ Top Scorer
   Leading Arkansas with 17.8 points per game on an efficient 62.1% shooting, Thiero provides a consistent scoring threat. His ability to finish inside will be crucial against Tennessee’s strong defense.
3. Jonas Aidoo – Facing His Former Team
   Aidoo, who transferred from Tennessee after last season, now averages 6.3 points and 4.0 rebounds for Arkansas. His familiarity with Tennessee’s system could provide the Razorbacks with a strategic edge.

Additionally, Arkansas will benefit from the return of starting guard Johnell Davis, who missed the past two games due to a wrist injury. Davis, averaging 9.2 points per game, adds depth and experience to the Razorbacks’ backcourt.

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Clash of the Point Guards

One of the most exciting subplots is the matchup between New York natives Zeigler and Fland. Both guards bring exceptional playmaking and leadership to their teams, and their rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity to the game.

“I respect his game,” Fland said of Zeigler. “It’s going to be a dogfight, two New Yorkers going at it.”

What to Expect in the SEC Opener

Tennessee enters the game with a psychological advantage, having routed Arkansas 92-63 in their only meeting last season. In that game, the Volunteers outscored the Razorbacks 46-23 in the second half, showcasing their ability to dominate defensively and offensively.

However, Arkansas has evolved under Calipari and is eager to make a statement. The Razorbacks’ balanced scoring and newfound chemistry could challenge Tennessee’s unbeaten streak.

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Game Implications

• For Tennessee: A win would solidify their No. 1 ranking and match a 100-year-old school record.
• For Arkansas: An upset would mark their second top-15 victory of the season and reinforce their standing as a contender in the SEC.

Final Thoughts

This matchup has all the ingredients for an SEC classic. Tennessee’s depth and discipline will be tested by an Arkansas team riding high on confidence and grit. As both teams emphasize defense and efficient ball movement, expect a physical, high-stakes battle.

Tennessee’s top ranking may add pressure, but the Volunteers appear ready to embrace the challenge, while Arkansas is eager to prove that they can hang with the best.