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Weekly UpdatesWho doesn't love season prediction columns? Well, who doesn't love predictions columns besides anybody that's ever written one and made it public?
"Hey everybody! I'm going to attempt to predict the future. Then, I'll put it in print and have thousands of you read it. I'll also be attaching my e-mail address, so feel free to check back in and remind me what a dunce I am before, during and after each of the 12 weeks listed."
See what I mean?
Still, without further ado (or complaint), I offer my thoughts on the upcoming Arkansas football season.
This should be a much better year for the Razorbacks, who have upgraded at quarterback and have 18 starters returning with an influx of defensive back talent on the way. Arkansas players should be much more familiar with the schemes they're being asked to run. That will lead to marked improvement.
From here, it looks like Arkansas has a good chance of going 8-4 in the regular season. That will be followed up with a bowl victory as the Razorbacks offer a preview of what's coming in Bobby Petrino's third season.
Seems reasonable now. Let's see how that holds up over the next four months. The winner is in bold-faced type.
I'll be waiting to hear from you. Send your thoughts and predictions to cbahn@abpg.com.
Missouri State at ARKANSAS (Little Rock, Sept. 5)
Arkansas' average margin of victory in live games against Missouri State is 45 points.
That shouldn't change much. No way the Razorbacks repeat last year's nail-biter against Western Illinois.
GEORGIA at Arkansas (Sept. 19)
This game has become a fashionable upset pick for national pundits who like Arkansas at home. There a reason those guys are making big bucks on national networks, but we're not buying it.
Arkansas at ALADAMA (Sept. 26)
Unlike last time in Tuscaloosa, London Crawford will be wide open at midfield, catch the ball, hold onto it and score. This game is closer than 2008, but the result will be the same.
ARKANSAS-Texas A&M (Arlington, Texas, Oct. 3)
With no ticket cheaper than $85 will there be enough fans to fill Jerry World? Of course. Fans see this as a winnable game against a one-time rival that the Hogs beat more times than not, so count on them being there.
Auburn at ARKANSAS (Oct. 10)
Auburn's latest attempt at installing a spread offense will be more successful than last year thanks to Gus Malzahn. Arkansas won't get the benefit of playing a dysfunctional bunch of Tigers. Arkansas will get the benefit of a win.
Arkansas at FLORIDA (Oct. 17)
Heisman seeking quarterback plus the country's most experienced defense equals a Florida victory. This formula will repeat itself for all 14 of the Gators' opponents, so there's no shame here Arkansas fan.
ARKANSAS at Ole Miss (Oct. 24)
No celebratory water cooler dump awaits Houston Nutt this year. Arkansas fans won't have to (wrongly) pin this loss on a (properly called) offensive pass interference penalty as this rivalry continues to blossom.
Eastern Michigan at ARKANSAS (Oct. 31)
Some Razorback fans might remember that Eastern Michigan athletic director Derrick Gragg served on Arkansas' administrative staff from 2000 to 2006. This random fact is infinitely more interesting than the Razorbacks' homecoming victory will be.
South Carolina at ARKANSAS (Nov. 7)
Steve Spurrier has been known to try every available option at quarterback during games. Your time could be coming as Spurrier looks into the stands for an answer to its offensive troubles. Arkansas has no such problems.
Troy at ARKANSAS (Nov. 14)
Not scheduling Arkansas State is line but, Arkansas should stop the silly practice continues of scheduling rent-a-wins from within the Red Wolves' conference, the Sun Belt. Arkansas gets the same result as if the in-state teams played.
Mississippi State at ARKANSAS (Little Rock, Nov. 21)
Forget those Florida and Alabama blowouts, Mississippi State was the most embarrassing SEC loss of 2008. Arkansas avenges and reminds new Bulldogs coach Dan Mullen he took the worst job in the SEC.
Arkansas at LSU (Nov. 28)
No more cheap shots at The Boot. Trophy promoter/former Razorback David Bazzel deserves better and his wish is coming true. This rivalry is developing, even if CBS did drop it from its regular Friday spot. Expect another close game, but not a third straight Arkansas victory.
Again, remind northwest editor Chris Bahn of his prognostication prowess, or discuss anything else, at cbahn@abpg.com.
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