UA vs. Auburn: Four keys to success

The Arkansas Razorbacks ring the bell when they achieve their best performance to date.

1. Keep Kiehl uncomfortable Kiehl Frazier, Auburn’s sophomore quarterback from Shiloh Christian, has already thrown seven interceptions this season – more than any other SEC QB. Get in his face and get in his head. Arkansas has been hesitant to blitz a lot this season because of the pressure that would put on an inexperienced secondary. Does that change today against a young QB and a young offensive line? We know Frazier can run the ball, but he hasn’t been doing it effectively this season. Take away the nine sacks for minus-47 yards, and Frazier has carried 22 times for 63 yards.

2. Be disciplined in the red zone Moving the ball isn’t a problem for the Razorbacks. It’s scoring once they get going that’s been the issue. The Hogs rank sixth in the SEC in total offense but 11th in scoring offense. They're 109th nationally in red zone offense. Hold those blocks a little longer. Stay ahead of the chains. Be disciplined and avoid penalties. Don’t force bad passes. Be able to run the ball.

3. Win the turnover battle They say turnovers come in bunches. If that’s the case, Arkansas is due to get three or four cases of takeaways. The Hogs have the worst turnover margin in the nation – minus-2.6. They’ve had two takeaways – a fumble recovery vs. Jacksonville State and an interception vs. ULM. They’ve lost seven fumbles and thrown eight picks. The good news is that Auburn hasn’t been much better and is tied for 116th in turnover margin (minus-2.0) Against the Aggies, it was pretty clear the Hogs were more focused on stripping the ball. Keep that up and don’t get discouraged.

4. Take care of Tyler This is always a key for the Hogs. We put it last only because it’s so obvious. QB Tyler Wilson wasn’t sacked last week vs. Texas A&M, but he got hit quite a bit. While the offensive line’s play is obvious in his protection or lack thereof, Tyler also has to take care of Tyler by making sure the Hogs are in the right pass protection, by not holding the ball too long and by getting three, four or five yards on the ground when his guys are covered.