This game went almost exactly how I expected. Mississippi State won by seven at home. I predicted a 6-point MSU victory. Reggie Perry was dominant from the get go. When Perry caught the ball on the block and Arkansas did not send help, it was an easy jump hook or a defensive foul almost every time. I thought the Hogs did a decent job on him all things considered. He was outstanding from the Free Throw Line shooting 14-15. Mason Jones did not assert himself until the second half. He had 20 points tonight to go along with Jimmy Whitt’s 20 points. Isaiah Joe really struggled in a way that I have not seen him before.
What Went Right
Cylla/Chaney
Reggie Chaney and Jeantal Cylla played solid off the bench for the Hogs, but did not see much time in the second half. I try not to be an armchair coach, but it was confusing why they did not get more time in the second half.
What Went Wrong
Isaiah Joe
Tonight was Joe’s worst game of his collegiate career. He was unable to score the ball and turned the ball over 3 times. Joe was 2 of 13 from the field.
Converting on Turnovers
The Hogs did not force as many turnovers as they would have liked. Mississippi State committed nine total, but Arkansas only converted those turnovers into 9 points.
Free Throw Shooting
Arkansas was 6-11 from the FT line. This game did not afford many attempts to the Hogs, but they missed the front end of a 1 and 1 several times.
What Now
The SEC/Big12 Challenge is this Saturday with TCU coming to Fayetteville.
Around the SEC
Georgia 79 @ Kentucky 89
Kentucky is rolling now. I expect them to go on quite the streak.
Ole Miss 48 @ Tennessee 73
Ole Miss moves to 0-5 in the SEC. I am not sure anyone expected that.
Texas A&M 66 @ Missouri 64
An ugly game that provided an entertaining ending. The Aggies win again!
Florida 82 @ LSU 84
This game was a battle of the best in the SEC. LSU was able to sneak out with another close win despite a furious comeback from Florida.
Alabama 77 @ Vanderbilt 62
Alabama led by six at the half and expanded the lead in the second half. Vanderbilt’s SEC losing streak continues.
South Carolina 67 @ Auburn 80
Auburn bounces back after two straight losses.