Arkansas vs Alabama: Preview, predictions, betting odds & live stream

Sep 12, 2015; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Derrick Henry (2) runs for a score against the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Arkansas Rush Defense vs. Alabama Rushing Attack

Not surprisingly, another key matchup this week will be the success of the Arkansas rush defense in stopping Alabama’s powerful running game.

In part because they have a very talented group of defenders, but also because the Arkansas offense leads the SEC and ranks No. 3 nationally in time of possession with an average of 35.44 per game, the Razorbacks have allowed just 101.6 rushing yards per game this season. That figure ranks third in the SEC and No. 16 in the country. The Hogs have held three of their five opponents to 81 rushing yards or fewer this season, and Tennessee gained just 133 yards on 33 carries last week.

However, even including Tennessee’s trio of Jalen Hurd, Alvin Kamara and Joshua Dobbs, Arkansas hasn’t faced the kind of backfield or offensive line talent Alabama has at its disposal.

Alabama’s Derrick Henry is one of the most physically imposing running backs in the country, and his unique combination of size (6-foot-3, 241 pounds) and speed has helped him become one of the SEC’s most productive ball carriers. So far this season, Henry has run for 570 yards on 93 carries (6.1 yards per attempt) and nine touchdowns. Last week against Georgia, Henry set a career high with 148 rushing yards and scored a touchdown for the tenth consecutive time, which is the longest active streak in the nation and tied him for the school record.

Of course, Henry doesn’t do it alone. Kenyan Drake is one of the best No. 2 running backs in the SEC, and has gained 215 rushing yards this season. The senior is doubly valuable for his versatility, and Drake has added 141 receiving yards on eight catches. He has scored once on the ground, and has been on the receiving end of one TD pass. And, All-SEC candidate center Ryan Kelly and All-American candidate tackle Cam Robinson have helped open big holes for Henry and Drake.

Next: Brandon Allen vs. Jake Coker