At long last, the two top football teams in the state of Arkansas will square off.
Saturday’s matchup between Arkansas and Arkansas State in Little Rock marks the first time the programs will play one another.
The Razorbacks (1-0) are the heavy favorites out of the Southeastern Conference. The Red Wolves (1-0), who play in the Sun Belt Conference, yearn to pull off a massive upset that could have reverberations throughout the Natural State.
Arkansas coach Sam Pittman is well aware of the stakes involved.
“Certainly, we’re the ones with the pressure on us,” Pittman said. “I wouldn’t think that they would have it. That’s the reason, I’m assuming, it’s the first time we’ve ever played.
“… We certainly understand the importance of the game. I hope it’s packed and it’s exciting and it’s the state playing each other. … I’m excited about it. I’m excited to get to this game, as it’s the first time we’ve ever played, and I’m glad I’m going to be part of the history of that.”
Both teams feel good after posting victories in Week 1.
Arkansas will look to take another step forward after winning 52-7 against Alabama A&M. Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green passed for 322 yards and six touchdowns.
Pittman highlighted the fact that five different players caught Green’s six touchdown passes. That gives the coach reason for optimism as he looks to have a diverse attack on offense.
“I was proud that we were able to throw the ball to a lot of different people, get them involved,” Pittman said. “I think that’s going to help us in the future.”
One player who stepped forward in the passing game was O’Mega Blake, a transfer from Charlotte. He finished with seven catches for 121 yards and a touchdown, and he will look for another standout performance against the Red Wolves.
Arkansas State is coming off a 42-24 win over Southeast Missouri.
Like Arkansas, the Red Wolves also benefited from a terrific performance from their quarterback. Jaylen Raynor threw for 345 yards and three touchdowns.
This week, Raynor is excited to play on a much bigger stage.
“We know it’s going to be a great show, great scenery, great opportunity for the whole state of Arkansas,” Raynor said. “It’s just a beautiful platform for us to play. Very exciting.
“You can tell by the buzz all over the state, the city, the town, everything. It’s going to be a great show, for sure.”
On the field, Raynor is feeling more comfortable and confident than ever before.
“As you grow through this process I’ve been through, the reps are invaluable,” Raynor said. “The system I’ve been in for three years, I’m super comfortable with. I know my answers and what I want to get to versus certain looks.
“And just having the confidence in the five guys in front of me, the guys on the perimeter and then the running backs in protection just gives me that confidence where I’m able to play like myself.”
The Saturday game will take place at Little Rock’s War Memorial Stadium, where a sellout crowd of more than 54,000 fans is expected.
