Texas A&M vs. Arkansas Razorbacks: 5 Halftime Adjustments for the Hogs

The Razorbacks need to forget last weeks’ disappointing loss to Alabama and realize they have a dog fight on their hands against old Southwest conference rival, Texas A&M.

The Aggies have dominated play for most of the first half, but key big plays from the Hogs’ talented WR corps have kept Arkansas in it. Here’s what the Arkansas needs to do to get out of Dallas with a win:

Big Plays:

The Aggies defense has dominated the line of scrimmage and repeatedly put Tyler Wilson on his back. The only thing keeping the Hogs in this game is defense has dominated Wilson on his back. Big plays are the equalizer.

Get Jarius Wright the Ball:

The Aggies can’t cover Jarius Wright, simple as that. It is pretty clear that whenever Tyler Wilson gets in trouble he is looking for No. 4.

Wright already has over 200 yards and a touchdown in the first half. More important than that, he has come through a few times on third-and-long when the Hogs have desperately needed to keep drives alive—including a 69-yard TD catch on 3rd-and-15.

Find Some Energy on Defense:

The traits the SEC’s greatest defenses all have in common are tenacity and energy, and the Hogs are lacking both of those right now. Arkansas’ D looked slow and confused in a first half marred by penalties, missed tackles and stupid mistakes. 

If they want to get back in this game, they are going to need to reevaluate their desire.

Backups Need to Step Up:

Much of the Hogs’ struggles on defense can be blamed on injuries to both the Razorbacks starting defensive ends. Preseason All-American Jake Bequette and Tenarius Wright are sack machines, and it is clear their backups are in over their heads against the Aggies massive offensive line.

They will need to find away to get some pressure or, at the very least, play better contain-D on the Aggies running backs.

Silence the Crowd:

Apparently the Aggies legendary 12th man travels pretty well. 

Cowboys’ stadium has been rocking with Maroon and White clad fans all game. If the Hogs are going to be able to pull this one out, they are going to need to silence this hostile crowd.