In preparation for Saturday’s showdown between Arkansas and Texas Tech, Saturday Down South is taking a look at the key matchups that may decide the game between the Razorbacks and the Red Raiders.

Arkansas running backs vs. Texas Tech front seven

Arkansas’ matchup against Texas Tech is expected to be a closely contested game in Lubbock. The Razorbacks enter 1-1, while the Red Raiders are undefeated, but have looked weak in sloppy wins against Central Arkansas and UTEP.

With the Razorbacks’ traditional offense, it’s no secret that the success of it lies within the running game, and fortunately for the Hogs, they have some of the best depth at running back in Alex Collins, Jonathan Williams and Korliss Marshall. Coming into the season, Arkansas was the only team to return two 900-yard rushers. So far, they haven’t disappointed and are ranked 12th nationally in rushing offense.

On the other side of the ball, it’ll be the responsibility of the front seven of Texas Tech to stop this rushing attack, which appears to be a very tough challenge for the Red Raiders. Texas Tech’s defense has allowed a more than 224 rushing yards per game this season, which is the second-most in the Big 12.

In Texas Tech’s first two games, the Red Raiders face Central Arkansas and UTEP, two run-heavy teams. Loading up the box is an option for the defense, but with the speed of the three Arkansas running backs, it’s a gamble, especially because Tech’s defense doesn’t possess the speed to beat Collins, Marshall and Williams on the perimeter.

Another key for Tech’s defense will be to limit the rushing yardage on first down, which has proven to be a very productive situation for the Razorbacks. The Hogs have racked up 547 rushing yards on first down. That’s good for first in all of college football by 54 yards, a huge margin.

If the Red Raiders are able to prevent big rushing gains on first down, it’ll force Arkansas into more passing situations. While quarterback Brandon Allen has improved from last year, he’s still largely unproven and Tech’s defense would rather take its chances by forcing Allen into situations where he needs to make plays.

Something has to give Saturday afternoon and if I’m forced to choose, I like the chance of Arkansas running game. The offensive line is just too big (average of 320 pounds) and the running backs are just too good for Tech to stop. The Red Raiders haven’t proven they can stop any sort of strong running attack, so I don’t see that changing this weekend either.