Below is a look at Tennessee’s national stat rankings side-by-side with the counterpart rankings for the Arkansas Razorbacks. Conclusions: SAFETY FIRST! Run the ball, defend the pass, be careful on third down because a punt is a good play.
When the Vols have the ball
Where’s the opportunity?
Currently, Tennessee’s offense does not appear to have any advantage over Arkansas’ defense. However, there do appear to be a couple of areas that look even. The Vols’ rushing offense isn’t as good as we’d hoped yet this season, but the Razorbacks aren’t especially good defending the run, either. The two units also appear to be about even on first down.
Where’s the danger?
Tennessee’s offense is still not good at all at converting third downs, and Arkansas’ defense is quite good at getting off the field on third downs. The Hogs are also really good against the pass in all facets, including generating turnovers in the passing game.
Gameplan for the Vols on offense
Based on these numbers, Tennessee’s best bet is to run the ball. It’s the most even matchup, and it avoids what appears to be a significant advantage for the Hogs in the passing game. The Vols are going to have to be effective enough on first and second down that running is an option on third.
Vols on defense
Where’s the opportunity?
Tennessee appears to have the advantage when the Vols are on defense, particularly against the run. They could also have some success in pressuring the quarterback and generating sacks.
Where’s the danger?
The Arkansas offense appears to have an advantage in the passing game, as the Vols are generally struggling to defend the pass and the Hogs are better at that than they are running the ball.
Gameplan for the Vols on defense
Shut down the run, but also devote extra resources and preparation time to defending the pass and pressuring the quarterback on pass plays.
Special teams
The Vols appear to have several advantages on special teams, particularly in all facets of the punt game. So, safety on third down and living to punt on fourth down is a good play.
Turnovers and penalties
Arkansas is a turnover machine, and they are disciplined from a penalties perspective as well. Ball security first!