Mississippi State Bulldogs vs Arkansas Razorbacks Picks and Predictions October 26th 2024

Arkansas Seeks to Avoid Underestimating Struggling SEC Rival Mississippi State

Even with Mississippi State’s current six-game losing streak, Arkansas coach Sam Pittman stressed the necessity of not undervaluing the Bulldogs as the teams gear up for a Southeastern Conference showdown this Saturday in Starkville, Mississippi.

Razorbacks Aiming to Stay Focused

Arkansas (4-3, 2-2 SEC) is coming off a 34-10 defeat against No. 8 LSU, which was closer than the score indicates, tied at 16-10 in the third quarter. Now, the Razorbacks confront a Mississippi State squad (1-6, 0-4 SEC) that has had a dismal season. However, Pittman made it clear that his team shouldn’t fall into the trap of complacency due to the Bulldogs’ record.

“They’re wide open (with Van Buren),” Pittman mentioned regarding Mississippi State’s offense under freshman quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr. “If you press them, they’re going to throw deep. He can deliver the deep ball … and make plays on the run. He offers them possibilities.”

Van Buren, a 6-foot-1, 200-pound rookie from Bowie, Maryland, stepped in as the starter after Blake Shapen suffered a season-ending shoulder injury against Florida in late September. In three starts, Van Buren has displayed glimpses of promise, completing 61 of 114 passes for 792 yards, six touchdowns, and two interceptions. His composure in the pocket has been tested, with 11 sacks incurred due to the Bulldogs’ offensive line.

Injury Worries for Arkansas

Arkansas could be without a vital offensive asset when they take on Mississippi State. Leading running back Ja’Quinden Jackson, who has rushed for 592 yards and 10 touchdowns this season, is doubtful for Saturday’s game. Pittman acknowledged that Jackson has been struggling with injuries sustained during SEC play, remarking that the standout tailback is “very questionable” for the encounter.

“He’s been banged up throughout SEC play,” Pittman added, conceding that Jackson’s condition is a significant concern heading into Saturday’s contest.

Mississippi State’s Defensive Issues

While Mississippi State maintains a 15-18-1 lifetime record against Arkansas, the Bulldogs have triumphed in the last two encounters, including last season’s 7-3 defensive struggle in Fayetteville, the lowest-scoring clash in the 34-game series. However, first-year head coach Jeff Lebby has yet to notch a victory against an FBS opponent this season, with the team’s sole win coming against FCS adversary Eastern Kentucky in Week 1.

Mississippi State’s defense has been a considerable issue, allowing at least 30 points in six successive games. The Bulldogs currently rank near the bottom of the SEC in points permitted, giving up an average of 33.3 points per game, which is the third lowest among Power 4 conference teams.

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Despite those challenges, Lebby found a silver lining in their recent 34-24 defeat to No. 14 Texas A&M, noting enhanced defense on first and second downs. The Bulldogs forced the Aggies into 16 third-down situations, but their inability to conclude defensive stops ultimately cost them the match.

“Our normal-down defense, first and second down, was as good as we’ve performed all year long,” Lebby stated. “We created 16 third downs, (but) then not managing to get off the field after third down was the difference in playing really, really good defense.”

What’s on the Line

While Mississippi State’s season may seem to be unravelling, Pittman and the Razorbacks are aware not to dismiss their SEC opponent. The Bulldogs’ capability to challenge Arkansas on defense, especially in close contests, cannot be underestimated.

Arkansas targets enhancing its bowl eligibility prospects, while Mississippi State is eager to break their losing streak and secure their first SEC victory under Lebby. As both teams confront substantial hurdles—whether injuries or defensive flaws—Saturday’s game could serve as a pivotal moment for each program.