A victory against Texas on Saturday would mean a lot of things to Arkansas.

For starters, the Hogs-Longhorns rivalry goes way back to the days of the Southwest Conference. It would also be the most noteworthy win of the Sam Pittman era. The No. 15 Longhorns aren’t going to make it easy, however.

Steve Sarkisian is in his first year leading Texas and already has a victory over a ranked opponent, 38-18 last Saturday over Louisiana. If the Hogs hope to pull off an upset, how will it happen? Here are a few reasons.

1. Homefield advantage

Texas faces a sold-out crowd at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. The Razorbacks legitimately have a shot to break the school record for attendance, per Brian Davis of the Austin American Statesman.

So if there’s one thing Arkansas will have going for it at the start of this game, it’s the crowd. Pittman said the atmosphere for the old Southwest Conference rivalry will be electric. If the Hogs can make a couple of early plays and get the fans invested, the game could quickly turn their way.

2. The passing game will improve

First-year starter KJ Jefferson was a modest 12-of-21 for 128 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception in the Razorbacks’ 38-17 Week 1 victory over Rice. The quarterback made plays with his feet to make up for it (89 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns), but ultimately. he can do a lot more through the air.

Talented junior receiver Treylon Burks will look to get a lot more involved in Week 2. The preseason Biletnikoff watch list candidate had just 5 receptions for 42 yards in the season opener. He was targeted 9 times.

The Hogs started slow in Week 1, but the talent is there for an offensive explosion against Texas.

3. The defense can make plays

The defense wasn’t the issue against Rice.

The Razorbacks forced 3 turnovers and gave up only 17 points while keeping the Owls scoreless over the final quarter. They also allowed only 81 yards rushing.

The competition gets a little stiffer against Texas, plus Arkansas is without linebacker Bumper Pool for at least a half. The linebacker got called for targeting in the second half against Rice and must sit out the first half per NCAA rules.

That leaves safety Jalen Catalon and linebacker Grant Morgan to make plays. Catalon finished with 2 interceptions against Rice. Can he add to his total?

4. The Longhorns are inexperienced

Texas has a new quarterback and coach this season. Redshirt freshman Hudson Card looked fine in the home opener, but how will he fare under pressure in Fayetteville? Could the crowd get to him?

Arkansas’ defense may want to put pressure on Card early to see how he responds. If it can force a couple of early mistakes, that could make Sarkisian put Casey Thompson in.

5. Jefferson presents a dual threat

Jefferson rushed for 89 yards and 2 touchdowns against Rice. He also had a third rushing touchdown called back because of a holding penalty.

The Arkansas quarterback needs to be better through the air, but his ability to take off will keep the Longhorns defense honest. Pittman has reiterated throughout this week that the Hogs will stick with Jefferson. A former 4-star recruit, he has potential to lead the offense for the next few seasons.