TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The sky-high optimism sweeping Razorback Landthis time last week was only matched by the air attack provided by Ryan Mallett. With Arkansas' defense giving up half-ahundred against Georgia, and a trip to the SEC's best defense facing the Hogs today in Tuscaloosa, Ala., it's safe to say that the optimism has been grounded.
With that in mind, there's certainly a lot still possible and at stake this afternoon against No. 3 Alabama. It's a battle of the second-best offense in the nation against the third-best defense nationally. We know the mood in Fayetteville this week, and for a break down for all things Crimson Tide, we bring in Ken Rogers of the Dothan (Ala.) Eagle for this week's edition of "The Other Side."
Slophouse: We've heard all about Arkansas' struggles on defense.
Publicly the Crimson Tide are respectful ofthe Hogs' defense, but one has to think that, privately, quarterback Greg McElroy and the offense are licking their chops to face the Hogs' D. What's the attitude been like among the Crimson Tide's offense, especially with wide receiver Julio Jones back in the fold?
Rogers: Well, they've at least said all the right things, complimenting Georgia's execution and noting that, once big plays start, they have a snowball effect. Julio's return is welcome, of course, but I think Alabama had some questions answered in his absence about the "other" receivers. Marquis Maze and Mike McCoy are reliable and Darius Hanks will catch it if they throw it to him. If they can protect McElroy, he's at least got more options than Julio.
Slophouse: You look up and down the Tide's depth chart and it's hard not for your jaw to hit the floor. With the offense performing great and the defense seemingly not losing their stride from a year ago, what exactly could be considered a weakness on the team?
Or is everything a relative strength?
Rogers: I still think there are things that haven't been tested. The offensive line hasn't faced an SEC defense - protecting McElroy is a must, as is running it effectively, especially on first-and-10 or third-and-short.
Defensively, a big emphasis throughout preseason on getting a better pass rush has paid dividends early. But they haven't faced an SEC offensive line. Also, they have given up more big plays than they've wanted.
It's going to be hard to drive end-to-end against Alabama, particularly five and six yards at a time. But a 30- or 40-yard chunk in one play makesit a bit easier.
Much has been made of their kickoff coverage problems, and Arkansas is dangerous there.
Finally, Mallett will really test Alabama's undersized cornerbacks.
If there is a soft spot on the defense, it's here.
Slophouse: Not many knew what to expect from McElroy, but he's obviously been a dangerous weapon as a first-year starter. How are the Tide fans reacting to McElroy's fast start?
Rogers: John Parker Who? McElroy's accuracy and his willingness to spread it around have been big surprises. Both of those things, however, depend on having time to set your feet or look elsewhere.
Slophouse: The series between Arkansas and Alabama has been evenly matched, but is there really any respect/fear from the Tide fans of the Razorbacks?
Rogers: Respect, yes.
Bobby Petrino can make any defense, even Nick Saban's, look bad. Fear, no. The 52 points Georgia put up took care of that.
Slophouse: Is there anything surprising with this Alabama team this season from your observations?
Rogers: The offense looks a little better than I expected, at least early on. I thought they'd have more trouble running the football. Yes, the rebuilt offensive line is a factor, but not the only one.
Alabama's running backs are better than I thought.
I knew Mark Ingram gave them a lift when he subbed for Glen Coffee last year, but I wasn't sure he was big enough to be as punishing a runner as Saban likes to have. He's good, but Roy Upchurch and freshman Trent Richardson are bigger and just as fast - though maybe not as quick - as Ingram. And Terry Grant provides a breakaway threat when he's in there.
They can make an offensive line look pretty good.
Slophouse: How do you see the game developing and what is your prediction?
Rogers: I think Arkansas has to establish at least the threat of a running game. Michael Smith must keep the defense from simply teeing off and rushing Mallett. He's explosive enough to do that, if Petrino will let him. The Razorbacks have to be more patient than they were last week. There are going to be opportunities for big plays, if Mallett has time to throw. But if Alabama can disrupt the passing game by only rushing four defenders, it could be a long day.
On the other side of the ball, if Arkansas can make McElroy throw when he has to, instead of when he wants to, the Razorbacks will be in the game for 60 minutes. I think Arkansas will play a good defensive game, but Alabama wins 27-20.
Sports, Pages 9 on 09/26/2009