Game #14: No. 2 Texas Longhorns (13-0) at Arkansas Razorbacks (7-7)
6:00 pm * Bud Walton Arena (19,200) * Fayettville, Arkansas
TV: ESPN2 * Radio: KVET (98.1 FM)
6:00 pm * Bud Walton Arena (19,200) * Fayettville, Arkansas
TV: ESPN2 * Radio: KVET (98.1 FM)
Ken Pomeroy Ratings: Texas #3; Arkansas #185
Pomeroy Prediction: Texas 87-64
Very quicks Keys to the Game:
1) Play with Poise: This is the first hostile environment in which the 'Horns have played this season. Kansas City was a neutral site, Arlington was a semi-home game, and at Rice was like playing in a high school gym. In case you didn't know, Arkansas hates Texas. Despite their 7-7 record, I expect the Hogs to play with some fight this evening. And remember J'Covan Brown, Avery Bradley, and Jordan Hamilton are true freshman. Play smart and Texas wins.
2) Make some Jumpers: In last year's trip to Arkansas, the Razorbacks basically didn't guard Texas on the perimeter. Unless Bradley, Brown, Hamilton, or Jai Lucas can knock down an early jumper or two, there is no way the Arkansas defense doesn't sag into the paint to take away Dexter Pittman and Damion James. On the flip side, Texas shouldn't just take what the defense gives them, like they did in the first half against A&M-CC. The 'Horns need to attack the paint off the dribble and pound the ball to Big Dex inside.
3) Stay out of Foul Trouble: Texas prevailed against Michigan State with Dexter watching most of the game from the bench. That game was at home and the crowd was awesome. Tonight is a different story, though. I don't want to see Texas try to win on the road without the big fella.
Hook 'em