Texas A&M vs. Arkansas Preview: Defensive Players To Watch

Texas A&M and Arkansas face off in the annual "Southwest Classic" Saturday.

Oct 7, 2023; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive linemen Landon Jackson (40) reacts after a made field goal during the first half against the Mississippi Rebels at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images | Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Since Texas A&M joined the SEC in 2012, it's safe to say that one of, if not their biggest rivals, besides maybe LSU, has been the Arkansas Razorbacks.

The Aggies and the Razorbacks will face off in the 81st edition of the "Southwest Classic" on September 28 at AT&T Stadium, where the game has been held since 2014. Since the game has been moved to the home of the Dallas Cowboys, Arkansas won the first three meetings, and then Texas A&M went on to win nine games in a row. Arkansas was finally able to clinch its first win in a decade in 2021, but the past two years have been all Texas A&M.

On paper, Texas A&M should be set for a three-peat in the rivalry, with their "Wrecking Crew" defense set to pounce on the Hogs, but Arkansas should not be entirely counted out. This is why the games are played, after all.

With that, let's look at some defensive players from the Razorbacks' side that A&M will need to watch out for as they go for their third win in a row.

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1) SS Jayden Johnson

In terms of returning players, the Arkansas strong safety led the team in tackles last year, with 62. This season, Johnson already has 19 total tackles and has already scored an interception on the year. Whoever is starting under center for the Aggies needs to have Johnson on the radar at all times.

2) DE Landon Jackson

The Arkansas leader in sacks, with 6.5 last season. Those sacks were a part of 44 total tackles that accrued last season, so the offensive line should be sure to keep an extra eye on him. The lineman has notched 11 total tackles on the season so far, still yet to take down the quarterback.

3) CB T.J. Metcalf

The sophomore defensive back leads the SEC in interceptions, with three. He also has 26 total tackles under his name through four games. Noah Thomas and company will have a busy day shaking off Metcalf.