Texas vs Arkansas Prediction: Can Longhorns Avoid Trap Game After Georgia Loss?

The No. 18 Texas Longhorns host the Arkansas Razorbacks this Saturday. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium. This SEC showdown airs nationally on ABC. Texas enters as a heavy 8.5-point favorite.

This is a classic let-down spot for the Longhorns. They are coming off a devastating 25-point loss to the Georgia Bulldogs. Arkansas is winless in conference play but has been notoriously difficult to put away.

Statistical Breakdown and Key Matchups

Texas holds a 7-3 record and remains in the playoff conversation. A loss here would be catastrophic for their postseason hopes. According to ESPN metrics, their offense still ranks among the nation’s top 30.

Arkansas sits at 2-8 overall and 0-6 in the SEC. Their record is misleading, as five of their conference losses were by single digits. The Razorbacks defend well but struggle to score consistently.

All eyes are on Texas quarterback Arch Manning. The sophomore has thrown for 2,374 yards and 19 touchdowns this season. His decision-making will be critical against an Arkansas defense that forces turnovers.

Betting Lines and Expert Analysis

The point spread favoring Texas by 8.5 points has drawn significant attention. Betting models show a tight split among professional handicappers. Some see value in the underdog covering the spread once again.

The over/under is set at 57.5 total points. This suggests a moderately high-scoring affair is expected. However, Arkansas’s slow-paced offense could keep the total under that number.

CBS Sports analysts project a final score around Texas 33, Arkansas 23. This aligns closely with the current spread. It indicates a competitive game where Texas pulls away in the second half.

What a Win Means for Both Programs

For Texas, victory maintains their position in the College Football Playoff rankings. It also provides crucial momentum heading into the rivalry game against Texas A&M. A convincing win could restore confidence after the Georgia blowout.

Arkansas is playing for pride and to build for the future. A strong performance against a ranked opponent would be a moral victory. It could also help salvage recruiting momentum during a difficult season.

The historical rivalry adds another layer of intensity. These two programs have met numerous times dating back over a century. That history ensures neither team will lack motivation on Saturday.

Texas must handle business against Arkansas to keep their playoff dreams alive. The Longhorns have the talent advantage across the board. Their response to adversity will define this Texas vs Arkansas prediction.

Dropping this nugget your way

What channel is the Texas vs Arkansas game on?

The game will be broadcast on ABC. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Viewers can also stream the action on the ESPN app.

Who is favored to win between Texas and Arkansas?

Texas is a significant 8.5-point favorite. The moneyline heavily favors the Longhorns at approximately -325. This implies about a 76% chance of a Texas victory.

How has Arch Manning performed this season?

Manning has thrown for 2,374 yards and 19 touchdowns. He has limited interceptions to just seven. His QBR of 62.8 ranks him in the top half of FBS quarterbacks.

What is Arkansas’s record against the spread this season?

Arkansas has covered the spread in 10 of their 13 games. This makes them one of the better teams against the spread nationally. Their ability to keep games close is reflected in this statistic.

What is the history between these two teams?

Texas leads the all-time series against Arkansas. The teams first met on the football field in 1894. Last season, Texas won a defensive battle by a score of 20-10.

What are the playoff implications for Texas?

A loss would effectively eliminate Texas from playoff contention. They need to win out and get help from other teams. This game is a must-win for their postseason aspirations.

Trusted Sources

ESPN, CBS Sports, Associated Press, NCAA Statistics, SEC Network