Bret Bielema’s record at Arkansas is unblemished after three games, though the Razorbacks haven’t been winning in overly impressive fashion -- Samford was up on them late in the third quarter a couple of weeks ago, for example. The Razorbacks are on the road for the first time this week, and Rutgers is the first decent team they’ve seen.
How to watch Arkansas vs. Rutgers 2013: Preview, TV schedule, odds and more
Here’s the information you need in order to follow the game.
Both teams have some concern at quarterback because of injury. Rutgers starter Gary Nova was knocked out of last week's game because of a concussion, which may force the Scarlet Knights to turn to backup Chas Dodd. Arkansas' Brandon Allen hurt his shoulder last week, leaving his status in doubt as well. If neither can play, this game might not be the prettiest of affairs.
The numbers
Rankings and records: These two teams met for the first time ever in 2012, with Rutgers winning 35-26. The Scarlett Knights are 2-1 this season, while Arkansas is 3-0. Neither team is ranked.
Vegas: Rutgers is a two-point favorite over the Razorbacks. OddsShark has more information.
Weather: The high is expected to hit 73, and there is a 40 percent chance of rain.
Three names to know
Alex Collins -- If the Razorbacks can help it, they'd probably like to put as little pressure on their quarterback as possible, preferring to have Collins and Jonathan Williams carry the load. Collins ranks fourth nationally with 418 rushing yards, and Williams isn't far behind. Those two are combining for about 40 carries per game right now.
Paul James -- Speaking of productive running backs, nobody has more rushing yards or rushing touchdowns this season than James, who is averaging more than eight yards per carry for Rutgers. Not bad for a guy who only had five carries in 2012.
Brandon Coleman -- When Rutgers is throwing the ball, Coleman is a focal point. He led the team in receiving yardage last year, and he’s on track to do so again.
Two things at stake
Arkansas is about to face a terrifying run of SEC games, so it’ll take whatever can get into that portion of the schedule. After Rutgers? Texas A&M, Florida, South Carolina and Alabama, in that order. A win over Rutgers means the Razorbacks could get through that stretch no worse than 4-4, which sure looks better than 3-5. Additionally, there’s a good chance Arkansas needs this one if it wants a shot at bowl eligibility.
Rutgers doesn’t face anything like that run of games, though a date with Louisville is less than three weeks away. A win over Arkansas gives the Scarlet Knights a good shot at being 4-1 heading into the game against the Cardinals, and they’ll need that positive momentum.
How to witness
TV: ESPN will cover the game, beginning at 3:30 p.m. ET. Bob Wischusen, Rod Gilmore, and Quint Kessenich are on the mic.
Online streaming: ESPN3
Further reading
Visit Arkansas Fight for more on the Razorbacks, and On the Banks for additional Rutgers coverage.
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