UFC on Fox 6: Keys to Victory for Glover Teixeira

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I had just polished off the day's last snifter of Glover Teixeira Kool-Aid. I had donned my Glover Teixeira pajamas and was all set to clap off my Glover Teixeira floor lamp when I got to thinking: What if Glover Teixeira doesn't beat Quinton "Rampage" Jackson this Saturday at UFC on Fox 6?

That's when I knew the demons of doubt had invaded my brain. Luckily, I know just how to drive them out. While I'm waiting for Ronda Rousey to DM me back with instructions for making an effective tin foil helmet, I'm going to list the keys to Glover Teixeira's victory Saturday.

Did I mention that I think Glover Teixeira's going to win? Because I do think that.

Work All the Angles

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There's no question Jackson has the power edge in the stand up phase. But Teixeira's punches are tighter and shorter, and his attack is crisper and more diverse. He may not have that one-punch KO ability, but he can definitely mess you up in multiple ways.

If he avoids the big Rampage power shot—and doing so doesn't seem like rocket science—Teixeira should be able to batter the former champ.

The Ground Game = Fish in a Barrel

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Don't get me wrong. Jackson has great defense (against both takedowns and submissions) and is hard as steel in any phase.

But Teixeira, a jiu-jitsu black belt with two submission wins in his last five contests (not counting a tap to strikes from Mr. Ricco Rodriguez), shouldn't have a problem hitting takedowns, working ground and pound or throwing submission attempts on a diminished Jackson. Rampage tapped for the first time in 10 years when he was finished by Jon Jones. 

The Will to Endure

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Even in the best of times, Quinton Jackson is not exactly a cardio machine. Glover Teixeira has no problem going the distance. Furthermore, barring something completely unforeseen, this is Jackson's last fight in the UFC. He's had one eye on and one foot out the big exit door for years now.

I don't see that Jackson has the motivation to do anything fight-wise but throw bombs or go for a Rampage Slam if the opportunity presents itself. His hunger is nil.

It appears Teixeira, having only recently entered the UFC after a three-and-a-half year delay because of visa issues, could not be hungrier. Maybe Jackson proves me wrong and comes out ready to do more than headhunt. But I'm not going to hold my breath. I might pass out and crack my head.