Eli Drinkwitz has heard the talk about how the rivalry between Missouri and Arkansas isn’t a rivalry.

But based on his Twitter mentions, Drinkwitz would say the rivalry is “pretty strong.”

“We enjoy that people think it isn’t rivalry because we believe it’s a rivalry,” Drinkwitz said.

At his press conference on Monday, Drinkwitz said the Battle Line Rivalry means a lot to both programs.

“Any time you play for a trophy, as a competitor, it means something,” Drinkwitz said.

Drinkwitz also referred to flags at the Lake of the Ozarks and Branson when he’s there in the summer.

The Tigers and Razorbacks will battle for the Battle Line Trophy for a ninth-straight season. During that stretch, Missouri leads the series, 6-2. All time, Mizzou is 14-9 against Arkansas.

“We need to play our best game of the year and prepare on a short week,” Drinkwitz said.

Drinkwitz noted that Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jefferson “always plays really well” against Mizzou. In the Tigers’ 29-27 win last season, Jefferson was 20-of-27 for 212 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.

“I feel like we’ve played against (Jefferson) forever. He’s very talented,” Drinkwitz said.

Drinkwitz also gave praise to receiver Andrew Armstrong and tailback Rocket Sanders.

“We have our hands full preparing for that offense,” Drinkwitz said.

Drinkwitz noted the amount it will take to prepare for Arkansas’ defense.

“(The Arkansas defense) is good at forcing turnovers,” Drinkwitz said. “I’m just impressed with the energy and style of defense they play with. They’re playing at a high level on defense.”

Arkansas (4-7) will host No. 9 Missouri this Friday at 4 p.m. on CBS.