Hipp’s Tips: Arkansas

 
Third-down defense
 
The Rebels’ defense has consistently improved throughout the season, but one part of the game where they still struggle is third-down defense. On the year, Ole Miss ranks 91st in the country in opponent third-down conversion percentage, allowing opponents to convert almost 44 percent of third downs.
 
In losses to Texas, Alabama and Texas A&M, all three teams converted at least 58 percent of their third-down chances. In the Rebels’ win against Auburn, the Tigers converted just 33 percent of third downs. 
 
Arkansas has converted only 36 percent of third downs offensively this season, but with quarterback Tyler Wilson and a suspect Ole Miss pass defense, there will be plenty of chances to improve that number. 
 
Keeping third-down conversions to a minimum and getting Wilson off the field are vitally important for Ole Miss’ chances of winning Saturday. 
 
Disrupting Wilson
 
Sticking with the defensive theme, finding a way to make things more difficult for Tyler Wilson will be the main task for defensive coordinator Dave Wommack.
 
The Arkansas offensive line has only allowed eight sacks on the year, but teams have also managed to record 25 quarterback hurries, meaning it’s certainly possible for Ole Miss to put pressure on Tyler Wilson.
 
Whether it’s by rushing the passer or disguising coverages in the secondary, the Rebels will have to do something to get Wilson out of the rhythm he’s been in lately.
 
Rowdy in Little Rock
 
Ole Miss handled a raucous atmosphere well in its one true road game of the season in Tuscaloosa against Alabama, and the Rebels will be tasked with doing that again in Little Rock. 
 
Historically, the Razorbacks have played well in War Memorial Stadium, and even though it’s not their home venue, it should hold a pretty loud crowd for what is a key game for both schools. 
 
The experience in Tuscaloosa will help Ole Miss, but how the Rebels’ young players handle another rough crowd in a potentially close game is somewhat of an unknown.
 
Early success on both sides of the ball would go a long way toward making it an easier place to play for the Rebels. 
 
Take care of the football
 
In what could be a shootout, Bo Wallace and the Ole Miss offense have to focus on letting the big plays come as they may, instead of trying to force them to happen.
 
Ole Miss can’t afford to be careless with the ball trying to keep up with opposing offense, as taking care of the football and keeping the offense on the field are the best ways to ensure a good performance against Arkansas.
 
Wallace has improved a lot in that regard in the last couple of games, but the Rebels have also employed a more conservative game plan during those contests. This will be the first true test of Wallace’s decision making in a high-scoring, back-and-forth game, if that is what comes to fruition Saturday. 
 
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