Texas Longhorns vs 20 Arkansas Razorbacks
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Matchup Analysis
This NCAAB matchup features Texas Longhorns (18-11 (12-4)) traveling to take on No. 20 Arkansas Razorbacks (21-8 (16-1)) at Bud Walton Arena, Fayetteville, AR. These two teams are closely matched, with both squads posting similar scoring differentials this season. This projects as a competitive contest that could go either way.
On offense, Arkansas averages 89.8 points per game, which exceeds what the Texas defense typically allows (75.5 PPG). That mismatch could give the home side opportunities to exploit. The Texas offense puts up 84.3 PPG and faces a Arkansas defense allowing 79.7 PPG. The visitors have the offensive firepower to stay in this one.
Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Arkansas will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model projects Arkansas to win by approximately 3.9 points. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Arkansas winning by 17 to losing by 9.
The market has this game at -6.5, but our model sees value on Texas with a 2.6-point edge. Our line: Arkansas -3.9. Combined with the total projection of 174 versus the market line of 165.5, there are opportunities to find value on both sides of this matchup.
Team Comparison
TEX Texas
Stat
ARK Arkansas
18-11 (12-4)
Record
21-8 (16-1)
Last 10
84.3
PPG
89.8
75.5
Opp PPG
79.7
Current Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| TEX Texas Longhorns | +250 | +6.5 | O 165.5 |
| ARK Arkansas Razorbacks | -310 | -6.5 | U 165.5 |
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Mar 4, 5:45 AM
Opening line: -6.5 / O/U 165.5
Model Projection
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| TEX Texas Longhorns | +182 | +3.9 | O 174.1 |
| ARK Arkansas Razorbacks | -182 | -3.9 | U 174.1 |
Source: Model Updated: Mar 4, 5:45 AM
Our Picks
Spread
Texas (opened at -6.5)
53% Confidence
Play to -4.7
Total
Over (opened at 165.5)
67% Confidence
Play to 173.3
Recent Trends
Arkansas has been one of the more consistent teams this season with a 21-8 (16-1) record. Their 21-win campaign speaks to the quality of play they've maintained throughout the year. They've been solid on both ends of the floor and will look to continue that form in front of their home fans.
Texas sits at 18-11 (12-4) on the season. They've been competitive in most outings but have had their share of inconsistent performances. On the road, they'll need to bring their best effort to come away with a win.
When these teams meet, the home team typically has the edge given the crowd advantage and familiarity factor. The team that controls tempo and limits turnovers will likely dictate the outcome of this matchup.
Matchup Edges
Arkansas
Advantages
- Strong 21-8 (16-1) overall record this season
- Home court advantage and crowd support
- Strong offense averaging 89.8 PPG
Disadvantages
- Defense allows 79.7 PPG — a vulnerability
- Potential for inconsistency in key moments
Texas
Advantages
- Strong 18-11 (12-4) overall record this season
- Potent offense averaging 84.3 PPG
- Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure
Disadvantages
- Playing on the road without home crowd support
- Defense allows 75.5 PPG — exploitable