Arkansas vs. Auburn Odds
ATLANTA, GA (The Spread) – No. 6 Auburn kicks off SEC play on Saturday when it hosts Arkansas at 4PM ET on the SEC Network.
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Auburn was the national runner-up last year, going 12-2 while winning the SEC at 7-1. Arkansas struggled in Bret Bielema’s first year, going just 3-9 overall and 0-8 in the SEC.
Trends show that Arkansas is just 3-12 against the spread in its last 15 road games and 2-8 ATS in its last 10 on grass. Auburn has covered in 7 straight home games and 8 straight SEC contests.
According to oddsmakers from BetDSI, Auburn is the clear favorite in the game, as the Tigers have odds of -20.5 points against Arkansas. The over/under total has been set at 57.5 points (View Matchup). The opening odds for this game had Auburn favored by 20.5 points. The spread climbed up to 21 points shortly before falling back to 20.5. The over/under total hasn’t changed since opening at 57.5 points.
Auburn has the talent to win, but some of that talent won’t be playing on Saturday, most notably quarterback Nick Marshall. He had over 1,000 yards on the ground and just under 2,000 yards passing last year, but he is suspended for this game, which puts the pressure on the veteran offensive line to open up running holes for a slew of backs. Defensively, Auburn should be solid, as it returns six starters from a group that was better than average. Leading the unit is Robenson Therezie, who had four interceptions in 2013.
Arkansas needs something positive this year after an awful 2013 season. If the Razorbacks are to win consistently, it will be on the legs of Jonathan Williams and Alex Collins, who combined for nearly 2,000 rushing yards a year ago. Both are back behind an experienced offensive line. Defensively, Arkansas gave up 30.8 points and 413.4 yards per game a year ago. That will have to change. Only four starters are back this year, led by Trey Flowers at end. He had five sacks a year ago while safety Alan Turner returns after racking up 97 tackles and two interceptions in 2013.
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In terms of Injuries, Auburn has suspended defensive back Jonathon Mincy for this game and defensive back Robenson Therezie also may not play due to eligibility issues. Arkansas defensive lineman Deatrich Wise Jr. (knee) is questionable for the game while defensive lineman Mitchell Loewen (knee) is out.
The Public Bets are currently backing Arkansas, as the Razorbacks are getting 54% of the wagers with odds of +20.5 points at Auburn on Saturday.
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