At a loss for words
Brandon's "Line of Scrimmage" Column for the week of September 26th, 2007
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
If the last two Saturdays are any indication of what will happen this season, there’s going to be a lot of heartache in Razorback Nation. I suppose this was a good year to have an easier schedule.
Unless there is a wild turn of events, don’t look for Arkansas to defend their SEC West title. Effective offensive players other than Darren McFadden and Felix Jones will have to rise to the occasion, and the defense has to step it up — a lot.
McFadden is still at the top of the Heisman list, but if Arkansas continues to blow games, undefeated USC might see its quarterback John David Booty climb to the top. I’m not saying that rushing for 173 yards is a bad thing, especially when you consider that D-Mac did it with a stomach virus, but Arkansas HAS to win games.
As for last Saturday’s loss to Kentucky, I’m really not sure what to say. The Razorbacks were in charge of the game and basically handed it to the Wildcats, or dropped it, I should say.
While the Razorbacks got off to a good start, it was the 21 points that Kentucky scored in the fourth quarter that allowed for another Wildcat comeback. Last week, they made a similar last-ditch effort against Louisville and succeeded.
The downward spiral began as Michael Smith, who was arrested on Sunday on charges of theft and fraud, fumbled the ball with only 26 seconds left in the first half. The mistakes didn’t stop there.
Five fumbles altogether and two interceptions mixed with a few crucial penalties gave Kentucky opportunities that they took advantage of.
In the second half, there were no offensive points scored by Arkansas. Two were from a safety, and the other seven came after a Felix Jones kickoff return for a touchdown.
Up next — The Razorbacks stay home to host the Mean Green of North Texas. The game is an almost guaranteed win for Arkansas. The Mean Green defense has allowed an average of 51.3 points per game so far this season. Quarterback Daniel Meager may have already thrown seven interceptions, but he will still be somewhat of a threat to Arkansas’ secondary. He has thrown for 1,010 yards in just three games.
After back-to-back heartbreakers, look for Arkansas to come on strong and not let up.
This is a game they must win. Expect a lot more than just boos to be flying in Houston Nutt’s direction on Saturday if the Hogs come up short in this one.
PREDICTION — Arkansas 41, North Texas 17
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