SAN JOSE, Calif. (Interstat) — A red-hot Arkansas team riding a seven-game win streak faces its toughest test yet against top-seeded Arizona in a men’s NCAA Tournament regional semifinal Thursday at SAP Pavilion.

The seed Razorbacks (28-8) have surged into the Sweet 16 behind the spectacular play of guard Darius Acuff Jr. The sophomore is averaging 28.6 points and 7.4 assists over his last eight games, including a 36-point effort in a 94-88 win over High Point last Saturday. Arkansas’s offense, averaging 92.4 points during the streak, will challenge an Arizona defense that has held 10 of its last 12 opponents under 75 points.

The seed Wildcats (34-2), the tournament’s overall favorite, have won 15 consecutive games. Their balanced attack is led by guard Brayden Burries, who scored 31 points in a key road win at Colorado on March 7 and is averaging 16.6 points over his last seven contests. Arizona’s size and depth, featuring contributors like Koa Peat and Motiejus Krivas, present a formidable challenge.

Arkansas coach Eric Musselman has his team peaking in March, but the Razorbacks must overcome a defense that has stifled nearly every opponent. Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd’s efficient system, which ranks among the nation’s best in offensive and defensive metrics, makes the Wildcats an 8-point pregame favorite. The over/under is set at 165.5.

The matchup hinges on Arkansas’s high-octane offense against Arizona’s stifling defense. If Acuff can continue his torrid pace, an upset is possible. If Arizona’s disciplined approach controls tempo, it will move a step closer to a national title.

Tipoff is set for approximately 7:49 p.m. PDT Thursday. The winner advances to the Elite Eight on Saturday.