By Chris DePew
TideFans.com Staff
Feb. 24, 2018
Where to watch: Alabama (17-11, 8-7 SEC) vs. Arkansas (19-9, 8-7) – Today 5 p.m. Central, Coleman Coliseum, SEC Network
Who to watch: Braxton Key. The sophomore forward lost his starting job after a disastrous showing against Missouri, but in the six games since then he has shown far more than the man who replaced him in the starting five, Daniel Giddens. Key has averaged 10 points and 5.7 rebounds per game this month, slightly below his freshman year averages but a vast improvement over his rusty start this season after missing 10 games coming off surgery. Key’s slashing style and ability to get to the rim could be valuable in attacking Arkansas’ weaknesses, and it’s time to see what he can do with an increased workload.
What to watch for: Can Donta Hall keep up against the speedy Hogs? Arkansas has a little more size to work with than Auburn, but is similar in style to the league-leading Tigers. The Razorbacks play a breakneck, perimeter-heavy style that can leave bigger players gasping for air. And Hall not only fell off the pace at Auburn (seven points, five rebounds), but also to an extent against Oklahoma (nine points). The Crimson Tide must take advantage of its comfort at home to force the tempo into a lower gear that allows Hall to thrive. He is too talented and Bama has too few other reliable scoring options to not make full use of his skills.
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