Aggies Week 5: SEC Play Continues in Southwest Classic vs. Arkansas

Arkansas stands as the Aggies' second SEC opponent of the season, and will be an important step towards Texas A&M's pursuit of the SEC West.

Matt Guzman | Sep 25, 2023

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Texas A&M Aggies

Texas A&M Aggies fans, take a deep breath.

According to Aggies coach Jimbo Fisher, Conner Weigman's ankle X-rays are negative, meaning that missing an extended period of time doesn't seem to be likely for the second-year quarterback.

But that also doesn't ensure Weigman's status for Saturday's Southwest Classic against the Arkansas Razorbacks.

No, the Aggies aren't entering Saturday's matchup with a perfect record, but they do have an SEC West win under their belt — which is arguably much more important. With Alabama seemingly out of the top spot in the conference this season, the door is wide open for teams like Texas A&M ... and Arkansas.

Saturday's 11 a.m. matchup will be a big one for Fisher's squad. The winner will emerge as an early frontrunner for the SEC West, especially if LSU drops a game down the road. So, that being said, the Aggies should place extra attention on the Razorbacks.

What A&M lacks in quarterback stability at the moment — which isn't a knock on Weigman or Max Johnson's abilities — the Razorbacks almost depend on. Redshirt senior K.J. Jefferson is returning for what will be his third full season with the Razorbacks, and chances are, he isn't getting any worse.

"Arkansas fans, I have always loved playing for you," Jefferson wrote last December, announcing his decision to return to Fayetteville. "All and the support you have given me is unmatched. With that said, it’s time to fulfill my dreams ... [which] wouldn’t be complete without one more year on The Hill.”

Jefferson completed nearly 70 percent of his passes last season, amassing 24 touchdowns and over 2,500 yards — though the receiving side of things looks noticeably different for the Razorbacks next season.

In terms of yards, Arkansas' leading receiver is also its running back, meaning that Jefferson will need to adjust to having new targets on the passing front. It also gives the Aggies a chance to disrupt any new chemistry through interceptions, which they will certainly look to do.

Records are deceiving, but Texas A&M has won 10 of its last 11 matchups against Arkansas, so if the Aggies want to add another victory to their resume, this season would be the season to do it again ahead of what could be the last Arlington matchup in 2024.

They might want some more momentum before facing Alabama again, too, and Arkansas will be a great team to earn it against.

Be sure to stick with AllAggies.com as we preview every aspect of the Aggies' Week 5 matchup against the Razorbacks.

2023-24 NCAA Football Week 5: Arkansas Razorbacks

2022 Record: 7-6, 3-5 SEC

Head coach: Sam Pittman

Returning Offensive Leaders:

Passing: QB K.J. Jefferson

2022 stats: 204-300, 2,636 yards, 24 touchdowns, five interceptions

Rushing: RB Raheim Sanders

2022 stats: 222 carries, 1,442 yards, 6.5 yards per carry, 10 touchdowns

Receiving: RB Raheim Sanders

2022 stats: 28 receptions, 271 yards, 9.7 yards per catch, two touchdown

Returning Defensive Leaders:

Tackles: FS Hudson Clark, 67

Interceptions: CB Dwight McGlothern, 4

Sacks: MLB Chris Paul Jr., 4

Published Sep 25, 2023

MATT GUZMAN

Matt Guzman is a sports journalist and storyteller from Austin, Texas. He serves as a credentialed reporter and site manager for San Antonio Spurs On SI and a staff writer for multiple collegiate sites in the same network. In the world of professional sports, he is a firm believer that athletes are people, too, and intends to tell stories of players and teams’ true, behind-the-scenes character that otherwise would not be seen through strong narrative writing, hooking ledes and passionate words.