There have been a lot of positives for Mizzou when it comes to moving to the SEC, but Saturday’s road trip to Jonesboro, Ark., isn’t one of them.

The Tigers, having come from a conference where they played every other member in a season, have been in a bit of a scheduling hangover since making the SEC switch in 2012. Former AD Mike Alden had to be desperate in scheduling an additional non-conference opponent, and that meant making concessions like playing Arkansas State away. Mizzou tried to move the game to a neutral site like St. Louis, but the Red Wolves wouldn’t bite.

It’s not like Missouri isn’t a favorite in this game (Vegas has the Tigers at minus-12). Most SEC teams win their games against Sun Belt opposition. On top of that, Missouri has won its last 10 road games.

But expect the Red Wolves to play well after getting blown out at USC. Arkansas State only put up six points to the Pac-12 powerhouse, but the point total is a bit deceptive. The Red Wolves actually gained 401 yards of offense in Los Angeles, just 16 less than the Tigers gained at home to FCS opponent Southeast Missouri.

Jonesboro has been excited about this game for a long time, too. It’s the first time an SEC school has visited since 2001, and marks the first game at Centennial Bank Stadium since its most recent expansion.

To end that excitement early, Missouri will have to turn on its turnover machine. Until midway through last season, Missouri had the longest active turnover streak in Division I. While that streak ended under former defensive coordinator Dave Steckel, new DC Barry Odom will look to build a new one with the 2015 Tigers. This week’s game is a good place to rack up the turnovers – the veteran Arkansas State offense (nine returning starters) surrendered four turnovers against the Trojans.

Finally, the Missouri offensive line may have its work cut out – especially if C Evan Boehm, who is listed as “questionable” on the depth chart, can’t play. The Red Wolves sacked USC quarterback Cody Kessler five times on Saturday.

ARKANSAS STATE RED WOLVES CLOSER LOOK

Top player, offense: J.D. McKissic, Sr., WR — The NCAA active career leader in receptions (242), McKissic will be a constant target for Arkansas State QB Fredi Knighten.

Top player, defense: Ja’Von Rolland-Jones, So., DE — Arkansas State proved they can pass rush against USC and all last season (the Red Wolves were tied for 21st in the nation in sacks per game). Rolland-Jones is the elite talent of the bunch, though, as the sophomore recorded a sack against the Trojans and brings in 7 1/2 from 2014.

Top player, special teams: McKissic — The senior receiver is also a dangerous kick returner. His 27.1 yards per return rank seventh nationally among returning players.