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

By Nicholas Ian Allen

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Oct 3, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide players celebrate a blocked-punt touchdown by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) during the second quarter at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Arkansas vs Alabama Prediction

Before the season started, many fans and analysts expected this week’s matchup to feature a couple of 5-0 teams ranked in the top five or top ten in the nation. However, because of Arkansas’ disappointing three-game losing streak to Toledo, Texas Tech and Texas A&M, as well as Alabama’s 43-37 loss to Ole Miss in Week 3, Arkansas vs Arkansas doesn’t have the national appeal many though possible a month ago.

That said, it’s still a heavyweight SEC West clash that should be a hard-fought game. Alabama may be a 17-point favorite according to the Las Vegas odds makers, but the Razorbacks are finally trending in the right direction, particularly because they have re-committed to the running game.

With three straight weeks of 228 rushing yards or more, including three straight games with 150 yards and a touchdown by Alex Collins, coupled with the Razorbacks’ tendency to work the play clock and dominate time of possession, the Hogs have the ability to keep the game close for four quarters with a chance to pull off the upset late – much like last year’s 14-13 narrow miss in Fayetteville.

However, the Alabama offense has the edge because Derrick Henry and the Tide’s talented offensive line is better than any the Razorbacks have faced this season. The Crimson Tide has also made strides in the passing game, and picked up big momentum with an efficient game by Jake Coker last week against Georgia, which included a breakout performance from true freshman Calvin Ridley.

Expect Arkansas to make it interesting, but for Alabama to keep their SEC title and national championship hopes alive with a victory.

Next: 30 Best College Running Backs of All-Time

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