UAB and Arkansas are set to face off on Saturday at 4:15 p.m. ET, with Arkansas favored by 20 1/2 points according to BetMGM College Football Odds. Arkansas currently leads the series 1-0. The game holds significance for Arkansas as a strong performance against UAB could help them recover from a Week 2 loss to Oklahoma State. Despite leading by a comfortable margin in the game against Oklahoma State, Arkansas faltered in the second half, leading to a double-overtime defeat. This matchup with UAB offers an opportunity for Arkansas to showcase their true potential.

A key matchup to watch in the game is between Arkansas offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino and the team’s performance expectations. Arkansas currently ranks second in total offense in the FBS, averaging 667.5 yards per game. Petrino’s offense put up nearly 650 yards against Oklahoma State, a feat that may be challenging to replicate. However, if Arkansas can produce similar numbers and convert them into more points, they could pose a threat in the SEC.

Players to watch include UAB’s sophomore wide receiver Amare Thomas, who is a standout performer on the Blazers’ offense. Having shown promise in his freshman year, Thomas is expected to take a step forward this season, with a potential to shine against an SEC defense. For Arkansas, UAB coach Trent Dilfer has praised Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green for his impressive performances in the first two weeks of the season.

In a historical context, Arkansas and UAB last met on the football field in 2014 when Sam Pittman was an offensive line coach for the Razorbacks. Additionally, Dilfer, a former NFL quarterback, played against a team coached by Petrino during his time in the professional ranks, as Petrino abruptly resigned to join the Razorbacks as head coach after their encounter.

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