The Traveler

Issue date: 11/21/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Jonathan Gibson Junior running back Michael Smith is second in the SEC with 112.4 rushing yards per game, behind Georgia's Knowshon Moreno. Smith is averaging 5.2 yards per carry and has scored seven touchdowns on the ground this season.

Upon entering Starkville, Miss., the Arkansas Razorbacks (4-6, 1-5 Southeastern Conference) should be prepared for a battle in the trenches for when they showdown with the Mississippi State Bulldogs (3-7, 1-5 SEC) 1:30 p.m. Saturday.

Much like Arkansas, MSU has had its share of ups and downs this season. However, also like the Hogs, they boast some specific aptitudes. Chief among them are stalwart lines on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.

"Their biggest strength is probably the guys up front," Arkansas offensive coordinator Paul Petrino said. "Their front seven is pretty good and they do some different things schematically. They've been good all year holding on third downs."

Similarly, on offense, the line may be the Bulldogs' best asset. This season, it's done an exemplary job of paving the way for the MSU passing and rushing games, UA coaches said.

"They're awfully good up front," Arkansas defensive coordinator Willy Robinson said. "They have a really fine running back who runs with his pads down and is exceptional coming out of the backfield catching the ball. Their quarterback is not biggest guy in the world, but he's very active and creates plays."

The Razorback defense will be aided this Saturday by the return of junior defensive end Adrian Davis. Missing two games because of injury, Davis returned to practice this week much to the delight of his teammates and coaches.

Davis' specialty of getting to the quarterback could potentially come in handy against the Mississippi State defensive line.

"[Adrian Davis] has just got an ability to sit down and slide off you," Robinson said. "I mean, he can make himself thin. He gets off on the ball, he can turn his shoulders and his feet never stop. He's also got long arms and he never loses focus on the quarterback."

Though known for his pass rushing, Davis may also be instrumental in the Hogs' renewed commitment against the rush. After what they felt were some lackadaisical performances, the Razorback defense has vowed to improve on stopping the run.

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