Here is Jared Lloyd’s look at the BYU-Arkansas matchups, including his prediction for the final score for Saturday’s game at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Ark.:

BYU offense vs. Arkansas defense

The Cougars haven’t gotten everything working on offense yet in 2023 and the challenge just got a lot harder. The Razorbacks have been stout on defense in their first two games, only allowing 19 total points. That doesn’t bode well for BYU.

Edge: Arkansas

BYU defense vs. Arkansas offense

This isn’t the same Cougar defense that gave up 52 points to the Razorbacks in Provo in 2022, so don’t expect that much scoring. Still, Arkansas QB KJ Jefferson is a big-game performer and he’ll frustrate BYU at times in this one.

Edge: Even

Coaching

BYU head coach Kalani Sitake frequently has shown the ability to get his team ready for an opponent the following year after a disappointing loss (Wisconsin in 2018 comes to mind). Arkansas head coach Sam Pittman revamped the Razorback coaching staff this year but still needs to see substantial improvement to compete in the SEC.

Edge: Even

Intangibles

Arkansas has the advantage of being at home but don’t be surprised if there is a sizable contingent of Cougar fans in attendance. The weather is supposed to be moderate and not really be a factor. Both defenses have shown they can force turnovers, so that will be huge.

Edge: Arkansas

Key Matchup: BYU offensive line vs. the Arkansas defensive front

The Razorbacks have already proven this season that they can be really good against the run and can wreak havoc on opposing backfields. The duty to prevent that from happening and power the offense to success falls on the big shoulders of the Cougar linemen. If they don’t hold up, BYU probably loses by double digits.

Edge: Arkansas

Prediction

Unlike last year, the defenses will set the tone for this one as both offenses will struggle to have consistent success. The difference will be Arkansas’s ability to get a few big plays, particularly in the fourth quarter. KJ Jefferson will break a tackle for a big gain down the stretch to help the Razorbacks stay perfect in 2023.

Arkansas 23, BYU 13