Arkansas vs. Memphis preview: How to watch, odds, props, what to expect

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Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green scrambling for yardage against the Ole Miss Rebels
Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green scrambling for yardage against the Ole Miss Rebels at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium in Oxford, Miss. | Ted McClenning-allHOGS Images

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Arkansas Razorbacks (2–1) aim to rebound from a close loss to No. 13 Ole Miss as they travel to face the 3–0 Memphis Tigers on Saturday in a nonconference showdown. Kickoff is set for 11 a.m. at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, with national coverage on ABC.

How to Watch & Listen

  • TV: ABC.
  • Radio: Learfield Razorback Sports Network for Arkansas coverage.

Betting Odds & Prop Bets

According to BetSaracen, the Razorbacks are favored over Memphis. Key betting info:

  • Moneyline: Arkansas –275; Memphis +230
  • Spread: Arkansas –7 (−110); Memphis +7 (−110)
  • Over/Under (Total Points): 61 (Over −105 / Under −115)

Several “Double R Props” (first-half only) are also available, including:

  • Both teams to score in every quarter (+525)
  • Mike Washington Jr. over 12.5 rushing attempts and a rushing touchdown (−140)
  • Taylen Green over 9.5 rushing attempts with over 7.5 yards per carry (−135)
  • Arkansas defense over 1.5 fumble recoveries (+175)
  • Xavian Sorey Jr. over 7.5 tackles and over 0.5 tackles for loss (−105)

Statistical & Team Profiles

  • Arkansas enters this game with a potent offense. The Razorbacks rank second in the SEC in total yards per game and third in scoring, averaging roughly 569 yards and 47.7 points per outing.
  • Quarterback Taylen Green has drawn attention for his two-way impact. In the loss at Ole Miss, he became the first Arkansas player to exceed 300 passing yards and 100 rushing yards in the same game.
  • Memphis has been solid defensively and in the run game. The Tigers allow just about 11 points per game and under 250 yards total offense per game. Their offense features running back Sutton Smith, and QB Brendon Lewis has added a dual-threat element to Memphis’ attack.
  • Injury Report
  • Arkansas defensive back Kani Walker is recovering from a concussion suffered in last week’s game vs. Ole Miss. He is doing well, but it is still uncertain whether he will play.
  • Arkansas also has David Oke in the injury mix; status uncertain.
  • For Memphis, running back Greg Desrosiers Jr. has missed recent games with a lower-body injury; his availability is questionable.
  • Advanced Stats
  • Arkansas is averaging 569.3 total yards per game and 47.7 points per game.
  • Memphis allows just about 244.3 yards per game and only 11 points per game defensively.

Live/Public Betting Percentages & Line Movement (via BetSaracen / Related Reports)

  • On public betting, approximately 70% of betting action (by number of bets or money) is on Arkansas. Memphis has about 30% public support.
  • The current BetSaracen betting line:
  • Moneyline: Arkansas −275, Memphis +230
  • Spread: Arkansas −7 points (with roughly −110 juice)
  • Over/Under (Total points): 61, with slight differences in over vs under payout (−105 / −115) depending on side.
  • Odds have shifted a bit: the spread saw movement from around −5.5 to −7 for Arkansas; the total has been pushed slightly in some markets.

What to Watch On the Field

  • Arkansas’ ability to maintain offensive balance. If Green can mix his arm and legs effectively, Arkansas looks dangerous.
  • Memphis’ ground game and clock control. Controlling possession and limiting Arkansas’ explosive plays are keys for the Tigers.
  • Defensive adjustments. Arkansas’ defense will need to handle third downs better and contain big plays, especially given Memphis’ weapons. Meanwhile, Memphis’ front and linebackers must account for Green’s mobility.
  • Predictions & Expert Views
  • Some analysts favor Arkansas to cover the ~7-point spread, citing its explosive offense and experience against Power Four opponents.
  • Others believe Memphis could keep it close, especially at home, and see value in the Over, given the offensive talents on both sides.
  • Athlon Sports projects a tight final score in the high 30s for each team.

Quotes

From Arkansas coach Sam Pittman, reflecting on the Ole Miss loss:

“It was a heck of a game from two good offenses,” Pittman said. “We gave ourselves a chance to win it at the end. Two good SEC football teams out there, we just came up on the short end.”

Key Takeaways

  • Arkansas enters as the favorite, both in moneyline and spread, relying on a high-powered offense led by Taylen Green.
  • Memphis is strong at home, especially running the ball, and its defense has been effective in limiting opponent scoring.
  • Total points may be high, with many experts expecting the Over to hit given the offensive firepower and potential defensive lapses.
  • Closing Note: Saturday’s game between Arkansas and Memphis presents a compelling matchup of contrasting styles: Arkansas’ aerial/rushing balance vs. Memphis’ rushing emphasis and defensive stinginess.
  • How each team executes could decide whether the Razorbacks leave Tennessee with a win — or if the Tigers pull off an upset.

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