As the Tennessee Volunteers prepare to face the Arkansas Razorbacks, both teams know this SEC showdown could hinge on a few critical factors. With each team vying for positioning in the conference standings, the outcome may come down to key statistical matchups that reveal the strengths and weaknesses of each squad. Here are six key stats that will likely determine the winner between Tennessee and Arkansas.
1. Tennessee’s Rushing Attack vs. Arkansas’s Run Defense
Tennessee’s offense is powered by a strong ground game, averaging over 200 yards per game on the ground. Led by a deep backfield, the Vols will look to control the tempo by establishing the run. On the other side, Arkansas has struggled to defend the run, allowing opponents to rack up big yardage on the ground. If Tennessee can exploit this weakness, they’ll be able to dictate the pace of the game and keep Arkansas’ offense off the field.
2. Arkansas’s Offensive Line vs. Tennessee’s Pass Rush
One of the biggest concerns for Arkansas has been its offensive line play, which has struggled to protect quarterback KJ Jefferson. The Razorbacks have given up an alarming number of sacks this season. Tennessee’s pass rush, led by edge rushers like James Pearce Jr., is one of the most aggressive in the SEC, and if they can consistently apply pressure on Jefferson, Arkansas’s passing attack could sputter.
3. Third-Down Conversions
Both teams rank in the middle of the pack in the SEC when it comes to third-down efficiency. Tennessee, however, excels at getting off the field on defense, holding opponents to a low third-down conversion rate. If the Volunteers can continue this trend, they’ll force Arkansas into punting situations, limiting the Razorbacks’ ability to sustain drives and generate momentum.
4. Turnover Margin
In a tightly contested game, turnovers could be the difference-maker. Tennessee comes into the matchup with one of the better turnover margins in the conference, largely thanks to their ball-hawking secondary and disciplined offense. Arkansas, on the other hand, has been turnover-prone in key moments this season. If the Razorbacks can avoid costly mistakes, they’ll increase their chances of pulling off the upset.
5. KJ Jefferson’s Mobility
KJ Jefferson is not only a physical presence as a passer but also a threat with his legs. His ability to extend plays and pick up critical yards on the ground is a key weapon for Arkansas. Tennessee’s defense will need to contain him in the pocket and limit his rushing opportunities. If Jefferson can escape pressure and turn broken plays into big gains, Arkansas will have a fighting chance.
6. Red Zone Efficiency
Both teams have been effective in the red zone, but Tennessee boasts a higher conversion rate when it comes to scoring touchdowns inside the 20-yard line. If the Volunteers continue to turn red-zone trips into touchdowns, while forcing Arkansas to settle for field goals, they’ll have a significant advantage. The Razorbacks must tighten up defensively in the red zone to stay in the game.
### Conclusion
This matchup between Tennessee and Arkansas will likely come down to these six factors. If the Volunteers can maintain dominance in the run game, get after the quarterback, and capitalize on red-zone opportunities, they’ll be in a strong position to secure a win. On the other hand, if Arkansas can improve its offensive line play, limit turnovers, and leverage KJ Jefferson’s versatility, they may pull off the upset. With so much on the line, every one of these statistical battles will play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of this crucial SEC clash.