3 keys to a Mizzou victory on Saturday against Arkansas

On Saturday, the Battle Line Rivalry will resume as the Missouri Tigers (8-3) square off against the Arkansas Razorbacks (6-5) at Faurot Field.

This is a rivalry Mizzou has handled over the years, holding an 11-4 record overall and coming off a 48-14 victory at Fayetteville last year.

While Coach Eli Drinkwitz emphasized the importance of the rivalry against Arkansas, he said the most important thing was sending out all the seniors on a high note.

The likes of Brady Cook, Theo Wease, Johnny Walker, and Luther Burden will likely be playing their final games at Faurot Field, and they'll look to finish with a win. To do so, here are three keys to a Mizzou victory Saturday.

1. Contain Arkansas QB Taylen Green

Arkansas has shown flashes at times this season, including a big win over the Tennessee Volunteers and becoming bowl-eligible last week. A major reason for their success in those games has been quarterback Taylen Green, who brings a lot of playmaking ability to the table. Green is another dual-threat quarterback, a mold Mizzou has faced frequently this season. As a redshirt junior from Boise State, Green is having a career year at Arkansas. In games where the Razorbacks have struggled, it’s been because Green couldn’t get going on the ground. When Arkansas has won, Green has been effective both rushing the ball and finding receivers through the air. With 13 touchdown passes and 7 rushing touchdowns this season. If the Tigers can neutralize him, it will go a long way toward securing a victory on Saturday.

2. Neutralize Arkansas receivers

Arkansas has a dynamic offensive attack, getting production across the board. While running back Ja’Quinden Jackson, who is averaging 78 yards per game, is strong, he isn't the most threatening aspect of the offense. What is more concerning, specifically against Mizzou, is the depth the Razorbacks have at wide receiver. The standout is Andrew Armstrong, who is averaging 101 yards per game this season. Armstrong is a serious threat against the Tigers' secondary, which has struggled all season. Outside of Armstrong, Arkansas will also get production from Isaac TeSlaa and Isaiah Sategna, who have played their roles well. Tight end Luke Hasz has also caused opponents problems this season. It will be interesting to see how Mizzou's secondary holds up Saturday, given recent breakdowns and inability to keep up in man-to-man looks.

3. Establish the run

Mizzou has been at its best this season when the rushing attack is going well. Last week was a prime example, as the Tigers ran the ball 56 times for more than 200 yards and three touchdowns. Between Nate Noel and Marcus Carroll, it will be essential for Mizzou to get its two-headed monster going early. Arkansas has one of the best defensive ends in the country in Landon Jackson, who has 6.5 sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss through 11 games. It will be important for the Tigers' offensive line to win in the trenches from the start so Mizzou can establish its pace of play. If the Tigers run the ball efficiently, especially with snow in the forecast, they'll go a long way towards the result they want on Saturday.