SEC Football - 2021 Arkansas Razorbacks Preview
Our Arkansas Razorbacks preview 2021 notes that 2016 is the last time this team posted a winning record then they finished the regular season with a 7-5 mark. The Razorbacks went to the Belk Bowl, losing to #18 Virginia Tech 24-35. Last season, Arkansas finished sixth in the SEC West with a 3-7 record. As it was for many teams, COVID created odd circumstances for the Razorbacks, and despite their subpar record, the team was selected to play TCU in the Texas Bowl. However, that contest was cancelled. Last year, the Arkansas offense was ranked eighth in the SEC in offense and 10th in defense. Their PF/PA differential came to -9.2.
Arkansas Offense
Sophomore quarterback K.J. Jefferson appears to be the starter. Last year, the dual-threat QB tossed 41 passes connecting on 20 and hitting for three scores. He didn’t throw an INT. He also rushed for two scores. Talented freshman Malik Hornsby comes to the team and is another dual-threat signal caller. Five-of-six receivers return, including wideout Treylon Burks, who recorded 51 receptions, 820 yards, and seven TDs. Also returning is wideout DeVion Warren and Blake Kern who caught 15 and 20 passes and posted three and two touchdowns respectively.
In 2020, running back Trelon Smith carried the ball 134 times for 710 yards and five scores. He averaged 5.3 YPA. Smith is the backbone of the Razorbacks’ ground game. T.J. Hammonds backs him up. Last season, he rushed for 101 yards on 14 carries averaging 7.2 YPA. The O-line’s five starters from last season are back. For this offense to excel, this unit must offer better quarterback protection and rush blocking. Last year, Arkansas allowed 34 sacks.
Arkansas Razorbacks Preview 2021 - Defense
A total of 10 starters return to the defense. In 2020, DE Eric Gregory showed a lot of progress, recording 27 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and one pick. Zach Williams is at the other end and Isaiah Nichols plays the middle. There’s depth behind them. This unit must be more aggressive and adroit at pass rushing and run stopping. Last year MLB Grant Morgan and WLB Bumper Pool were first and second in tackles with 111 and 101 respectively. Morgan notched two sacks, 5.5 TFL, five PBU, and one pick while Pool recorded 0.5 sacks, six TFL, five PBU, and one QBH. This duo is skilled and experienced.
The secondary is also experienced and talented. Last season, those returning to the group recorded 11 interceptions and 17 PBU. Cornerback Montaric Brown provides fine coverage. In 2020, he notched six PBU and one INT. MS Jalen Catalon and FS Joe Foucha posted three picks each. If the Razorbacks can get more consistent play from this unit that will yield better results.
Specialists
In 2020, the Arkansas special teams were lacking. Our Arkansas Razorbacks preview 2021 finds that freshman placekicker Cameron Little will start. He’s shown promise. At the start of last season, the punting game was in trouble, However, after Reid Bauer stepped in, things improved. Bauer averaged 43.5 YPP and placed 10-of-39 within the 20-yard-line. Hammonds gets a shot at upgrading the kick return unit and Burks punts.
Arkansas Razorbacks Preview 2021 - Projection
Our Arkansas Razorbacks preview 2021 notes that this team has the toughest schedule in college football. Included is Texas, Texas A&M, Georgia, and Missouri. Plus, they play LSU and Alabama. Those games look like six losses. Then again, it does not have to be that way. If the offensive line can get the job done and give that side of the ball a chance and the D-line can temper opponent attacks consistently, some of the games we’ve noted could end up in the win column. In any case, a 6-6 record and a bowl berth are likely, and that would be progress.
SEC Football - Arkansas Razorbacks 2021 - Predictions:
Fifth Place - SEC West
Texas Bowl vs Texas