Tulsa Falls At Arkansas: Instant Analysis

Tulsa had a win in its sights, but came up just short. <br />

Saturday, November 3rd 2012, 3:55 pm

By: News On 6


Tulsa just couldn't make the big play when it needed to Saturday, falling on the road to Arkansas 19-15. Here's the instant analysis:

What it means for TU:

This one will sting a little more for Tulsa because of the way it lost. The game was filled with missed opportunities for the Golden Hurricane, yet they weren't out of it until the final snap. While any loss hurts, Tulsa is still unbeaten in Conference USA play and controls its own destiny. The only effect this game will have is it likely ends any chance the Hurricane had to become nationally ranked this season. If TU can win its next few games, including what would be impressive wins over the likes of UCF, Houston and SMU, we'll see.

What it means for Arkansas:

The Razorbacks have had a rough season, but a win on homecoming will lift the fan's spirits. This win also gets them to four on the season and keeps the Hogs' hopes of bowl-eligibility alive.

What I liked:

Tulsa's defense looked shaky early on, but responded in a huge way. The offense and special teams were busy squandering opportunities, but the Hurricane defense held Arkansas' powerful offense to just nine points in the final three quarters.

What I didn't like:

The Trey Watts wildcat package. Get rid of it. The Hurricane ran Watts in the wildcat on several occasions Saturday, only a couple of which could be remotely considered successful. Instead of those wasted opportunities, the Hurricane should have lined the ball up and given it to the back like they have all year. Alex Singleton and Ja'Terian Douglas only got eight combined touches, and that's simply not enough.

It was over when:

Not until the bitter end for the Hurricane. After Arkansas failed on fourth down, TU got the ball back at its own 17 with 1:07 left on the clock. The Hurricane needed a touchdown, but Cody Green was sacked on the second play of the drive, fumbled, and Arkansas' Bryan Jones recovered to end the game.

Up next:

The Hurricane will have to recover quickly because next week's game is a big one. A trip to Houston could not only eliminate the Cougars from title contention but give TU some revenge for last season's thumping.

 

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