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

Arkansas offensive line vs. Missouri pass rush

Friday’s inagural Battle Line Rivalry will be decided in the trenches.

Arkansas boasts a behemoth offensive line — the Hogs average 6-foot-6, 324 pounds up front — while Missouri produces the nation’s best pass rush, and two NFL draft picks in Shane Ray and Markus Golden.

The Razorbacks will look to run downhill at the Tigers, but also are very good off play-action. The status of quarterback Brandon Allen is still uncertain, but it will be Arkansas’ ability to protect its quarterback — whether it be Allen or his younger brother Austin Allen.

Ray and Golden have combined for 22 sacks on the season, and get after opposing quarterbacks off the edge. Their speed could give Arkansas problems up front.

The Hogs are sizable up front, but can be beaten. Arkansas ranks third in the SEC in sacks allowed with 11. That bodes well for a Missouri team leading the conference in sacks with 34 on the season.

Arkansas dominated Ole Miss up front last week, but the Tigers’ defensive front provides a different challenge. Ray and Golden need to have a big day in the Razorbacks backfield if Mizzou is going to wrap up the SEC East championship.