Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Arkansas Razorbacks
Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Arkansas Razorbacks 9/9/23 – College football fans are in store for an exciting matchup when the Kent State Golden Flashes (0-1) take on Arkansas Razorbacks (1-0). Kickoff for this clash at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium will take place at 4:00 PM ET and be shown live on SECN. Both teams have experienced very different starts to their seasons, creating what could prove an unexpectedly entertaining matchup.
Kent State’s season started slowly as they struggled in their opening matchup against UCF. Running back Gavin Garcia led their ground game with 45 yards from 18 attempts, averaging only 2.5 yards per carry. In comparison, wide receiver Chrishon McCray provided some bright spots by catching 3 passes for 61 yards at an incredible 20.3 average catch-per-reception rate.
Razorbacks have started strong this season, winning their opening game convincingly. Raheim Sanders averaged 2.8 yards per carry while finding two end zones on 15 attempts. In comparison, star wide receiver Jaedon Wilson made headlines with three receptions for 83 yards, including an outstanding 65-yard touchdown catch! Check out our free week 2 football picks for more insights.
Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Arkansas Razorbacks Game Info
| When: | Saturday, September 9, 2023, 4:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium |
| TV: | SECN |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
Michael Alaimo QB vs. KJ Jefferson QB
When you compare Michael Alaimo of Kent State to KJ Jefferson of Arkansas, the contrast is both significant and telling. Alaimo completed just 12 of his 31 passing attempts for 145 yards, with a lackluster completion percentage of 38.7%. Averaging only 4.7 yards per attempt, he suffered one interception and was sacked three times. These statistics translate to a disappointing passer rating of 71.5.
On the opposite end, Jefferson was clinical, completing 18 of his 23 passing attempts for a stellar 246 yards. With a completion rate of 78.3% and an average of 10.7 yards per pass, Jefferson displayed impeccable accuracy and poise. He also threw three touchdowns without any interceptions, boasting a phenomenal passer rating of 211.2.
Jefferson’s strong performance places him as one of the leading quarterbacks this season, showcasing his ability to not just move the ball but find the end zone effectively. Alaimo, however, has much to improve. His inability to sustain drives and protect the ball puts Kent State at a distinct disadvantage. Given the weight quarterbacks carry in shaping a game’s outcome, the discrepancy between Alaimo and Jefferson could be the defining factor in this matchup.
Odds/Point Spread: Arkansas Razorbacks -100000, Total Odds: 57.5
The odds for this matchup are severely skewed in favor of the Razorbacks. Kent State is at a spread of +38.5 at -110, a Moneyline of +2200, and a total of 57.5o at -110. Meanwhile, Arkansas is at a staggering spread of -38.5 at -110, a Moneyline of -100000, and a total of 57.5u at -110.
Kent State Golden Flashes Betting Trends
Kent State has a troubling 2-7 ATS record in their last nine games, and the total has gone UNDER in 7 of their last 10 outings. They have been consistently underwhelming with a 5-10 SU in their last 15 games and even worse on the road at 4-12 SU. Their record against SEC opponents stands at a disastrous 0-10 SU.
Arkansas Razorbacks Betting Trends
Arkansas has a strong ATS record, standing at 4-1 in their last 5 games. They have been formidable with a 13-7 SU record in their last 20 games. At home, the total has gone OVER in 6 of their last 8 games. Arkansas also has a formidable 8-1 SU record in their last 9 games played in September.
Kent State Golden Flashes vs. Arkansas Razorbacks 9/9/23 Betting Picks
Considering the contrasting performances and stats of both teams, it’s difficult to look past Arkansas for this game. The Razorbacks not only have the home advantage but are also stronger in nearly every facet of the game, especially when it comes to the quarterback position. While the spread of -38.5 may seem too high, Arkansas’ high-scoring offense and Kent State’s struggles suggest they could very well cover it. Arkansas is expected to dominate this game from start to finish, validating their position as the heavy favorites and covering the spread. Kent State will likely struggle to put up points against a confident Razorback defense. For more insights, check out our expert sports picks today.
Free Pick and Prediction: Arkansas Razorbacks will win 52-10.