Opinion
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Can the Razorbacks Outmaneuver the Bulldogs at Humphrey Coliseum?

As the Arkansas Razorbacks gear up for their next challenge against the Mississippi State Bulldogs, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The upcoming clash at Humphrey Coliseum on February 17 is poised to be a pivotal moment in the season for both teams.


Feb 11, 2023; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Jordan Walsh (13) dunks the ball against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the first half at Bud Walton Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

The Razorbacks have been showcasing a strong performance on court, as evidenced by their recent victory over Abilene Christian Wildcats on December 22. With an impressive 83 points to their name and a staggering 52 percent field goal accuracy, ARK demonstrated that they could maintain efficiency under pressure. Their second-half surge saw them netting 55 points, which speaks volumes about their ability to adapt and overcome mid-game challenges.


Defensively, ARK has shown prowess as well; they blocked six shots against AC and grabbed an imposing total of 45 rebounds. This defensive solidity could prove crucial when facing MSST's offense. However, it's worth noting that turnovers were a concern in this game, with ARK giving up possession 17 times.


Feb 11, 2023; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Ricky Council Jr (1) dribbles between Mississippi State Bulldogs guard Dashawn Davis (10) and forward D.J. Jeffries (0) during the first half at Bud Walton Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

In another recent game against Lipscomb Bisons on December 16, ARK secured a win with a narrower margin—69 points compared to LIP's 66. Despite shooting an even more impressive field goal percentage of 53 percent and dominating inside with points in paint (36), turnovers and free throw percentages were areas where improvement was needed.


ARK's resilience was tested when they faced Oklahoma Sooners on December 9—a game that ended in defeat despite ARK putting up a valiant effort. The team managed to score heavily from free throws (84 percent success rate) but struggled from beyond the arc (22 percent three-point percentage). This loss highlighted some vulnerabilities that MSST might look to exploit.


Feb 11, 2023; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Davonte Davis (4) reacts while defending Mississippi State Bulldogs guard Dashawn Davis (10) during the first half at Bud Walton Arena. Bulldogs won 70-64. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

The Bulldogs will not make it easy for Arkansas; they're known for their tenacity at home and will undoubtedly leverage every advantage Humphrey Coliseum offers them. Yet if recent performances are anything to go by, ARK has shown both flashes of brilliance and areas needing refinement.


For fans looking forward to this encounter: expect intensity from tip-off till final buzzer as both teams vie for dominance in what promises to be an electrifying atmosphere at Starkville.


Remember Razorback supporters: mark your calendars for February 17th at 7 PM ET/6 PM CT! The action unfolds live from Humphrey Coliseum and you can catch every play broadcasted on ESPN Networks. Don't miss out as your team battles it out away from home soil!

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