Houston Cougars Face Arkansas Razorbacks in High-Stakes Showdown

The No. 8 Houston Cougars are set to face off against the No. 14 Arkansas Razorbacks in a highly anticipated matchup on December 20, 2025. This game will take place at the Prudential Center in New Jersey as part of the Never Forget Tribute Classic. With a record of 10-1, Houston aims to solidify its position in the NCAA National Championship race, while Arkansas, with a record of 9-2, seeks to make a statement against a ranked opponent.

Matchup Overview and Betting Odds

According to odds from FanDuel Sportsbook, Houston enters the game as a slight favorite with a spread of Houston -4.5 (-104) against Arkansas +4.5 (-118). The moneyline has Houston at -194 and Arkansas at +160. The total for this game is set at OVER 143.5 (-110) and UNDER 143.5 (-110), indicating expectations for a competitive scoring environment.

Key betting trends highlight Houston’s recent performance. The Cougars have seen the OVER hit in six of their last eight games, yet they are 1-6 against the spread (ATS) in their last seven contests against SEC teams. Conversely, Arkansas has been strong, boasting a 6-0 record ATS in its last six games and an 8-1 record ATS when favored.

Key Player to Watch

Darius Acuff Jr. stands out as a pivotal player for Arkansas. He leads the team in scoring, averaging nearly three points more per game than his closest teammate. With an average of 3.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game, Acuff Jr. is not only a scoring threat but also a critical playmaker. Should Arkansas pull off an upset against Houston, Acuff Jr. will likely be at the forefront of that effort.

The upcoming game is expected to showcase contrasting styles. Houston is known for its defensive prowess, currently ranked second in the nation in defensive efficiency. They have also been noted for their slow pace, ranking 358th in adjusted tempo. Arkansas has demonstrated solid defensive capabilities as well, ranking 69th in defensive efficiency this season.

As fans prepare for this exciting Big 12 versus SEC clash, many are considering their betting strategies. Given Houston’s defensive strength and the overall pace of play, a lower scoring game could be on the horizon. The recommendation is to take the UNDER at 143.5 (-110).

For those interested in betting, FanDuel Sportsbook offers an enticing promotion. New users can receive $150 in bonus bets by placing a minimum deposit of $5 and winning their first wager.

As the game approaches, it will be interesting to see how both teams adapt their strategies and whether Houston can continue its strong start or if Arkansas will emerge as a formidable challenger.