Saturday’s game
Arkansas (0-0, 5-6 in 2004) vs. Missouri State (0-0, 6-5 in 2004; Missouri State is formerly Southwest Missouri State, a Division I-AA school).
Where: Reynolds Razorback Stadium, Fayetteville.
Time: 6 p.m.
Radio/TV: The ARSN network will broadcast the game on radio affiliates.
What James says: These are the type games that as a player you know you have to play. It’s a moneymaking game for the school, but as players and coaches you’re fearful of injuries and whatever. Also, you invariably know it’s going to be said that if you win by 60 you didn’t play anybody and if you don’t play well that you’re not any good. You have to get your execution and timing down with the first teams, get the game out of reach early and play your reserves.
?About Missouri State: They won six games last year and regardless of how small a school it might be, every football team has good football players. There will be some good football players on Missouri State and they will give their best effort. This is their time to get recognition and playing in front of 72,000 fans, it’s their bowl game. It’s imperative for Arkansas to take this game away from them early.
?The pick: 42-14 Arkansas. The Razorbacks pound them to death on the ground. Look for the running game and for Arkansas not showing much. Just go win the football game.
Watch former Arkansas All-American defensive end Bruce James along with David Bazzel and host Steve Sullivan on KATV, Channel 7’s “SportsWeek” Sundays at 10:30 p.m.
Bruce James on the Hogs
They'll open with a win.