Texas A&M Football: 3 takeaways from slim victory over Arkansas

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ARLINGTON, TEXAS – SEPTEMBER 28: Ben Hicks #6 of the Arkansas Razorbacks throws against the Texas A&M Aggies in the second quarter during the Southwest Classic at AT&T Stadium on September 28, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

2. Ben Hicks replaces injured Nick Starkel

Nick Starkel was injured in the first half while tackling the defender that intercepted him.

Ben Hicks, who lost the starting job a few weeks ago, replaced Starkel and provided a spark to the Razorbacks offense. Hicks was able to lead Arkansas to quick touchdown drives in the first half, including a perfect back-shoulder touchdown pass that took the lead for the Razorbacks before Texas A&M got it back before half time.

The second half was again back and forth with both teams having leads at some point. Hicks had some good drives again and looked way more comfortable in the offense than he did the first two games that he started this year. He did have several balls batted down at the line of scrimmage, though, for whatever reason.

Arkansas was down 31-27 with a little under four minutes left in the game and Hicks had a chance to play hero and lead the Razorbacks to its first SEC win under Chad Morris. He made some big throws on the last drive as he led Arkansas down the field. However, the Razorbacks were not able to pull off the upset, despite Hicks playing tough football as he finished the game 15-for-27 with 188 yards passing and a passing touchdown.