In preparation for Saturday’s showdown between Ole Miss and Arkansas, Saturday Down South is taking a look at the key matchups that may decide the game between the Rebels and the Razorbacks.

Brandon Allen vs. Ole Miss pass defense

Arkansas quarterback Brandon Allen could be the key against Ole Miss on Saturday afternoon.

Allen faces an Ole Miss defense that ranks third in the SEC in pass defense, allowing 181.7 yards per game. The Hogs’ ability to run the ball will be key to setting up the play-action pass for Allen.

Defensive backs Tony Conner, Mike Hilton and Senquez Golson have all had huge years for the Ole Miss secondary, and will present challenges for Keon Hatcher, Hunter Henry and A.J. Derby. Arkansas is very good in the short to intermediate pass game, but doesn’t have a deep threat.

Allen faces a secondary that possesses tremendous ball skills, with Golson leading the nation with nine interceptions. Offensive coordinator Jim Chaney brought some new wrinkles to the offense last week against LSU. Chaney likely will continue to open things up a bit during the final two weeks as Arkansas looks to get bowl eligible.

Allen has thrown five interceptions on the season. He faces a secondary this week plenty capable of forcing him into some bad decisions. Allen played mistake-free football in last week’s win over LSU, and will need to be turnover-free again on Saturday afternoon.