Top 5 Single Game Performances by Razorbacks Since 2000
By Matt Jenkins
5) The time when Tyler Wilson passed for a school record 510 yards and 3 touchdowns, and when Jarius Wright had 13 catches for a school record 281 yards and 2 touchdowns … Arkansas vs. Texas A&M, 2011 (Arkansas wins 42-38)
When you have a combination like Tyler Wilson and Jarius Wright, that’s a good recipe for a victory for the Razorbacks. When you have both players break school record in passing and receiving yards, however, that creates a special moment that will go down in Hogs history.
I was in Dallas at the game, and during the first half it looked like the Razorbacks were outmatched. Sitting there, I never once believed the Razorbacks would actually be able to mount a comeback win. TAMU scored with :09 left in the first half to go up 35-17, and had all the momentum in the world. No one gave Arkansas a chance. But that’s why you play the game and never give up.
Tyler Wilson buckled up and led the Hogs on a touchdown drive to start the half, and the defense gave the Bobby Petrino led offense a few opportunities. Every time Wilson dropped back to throw, it was a threat for a touchdown. Wilson even tied the game up on a QB option keeper on a two point conversion. When the dust settled, the Hogs QB was 30/51 for 510 yards and 3 scores. A truly epic day for Wilson.
During the game, Jarius Wright was Wilson’s favorite target, and TAMU had no idea how to stop the slot receiver. Wright had a record setting performance of his own, catching 13 passes for 281 yards and 2 scores. Wilson to Wright is a phrase that, when uttered in College Station, causes a shudder down the spines of residents to this day.
Tyler Wilson and Jarius Wright put the team on their backs, and led the Razorbacks to a huge victory to rebound after the loss at Alabama the week prior. This game was the turning point for the season, and started what would be one of the greatest season’s in Razorback history. The Hogs finished the year 11-2, losing to LSU in the season finale. The Razorbacks received a birth to the Cotton Bowl Classic in Arlington, and beat Kansas State 29-16. 2011 was truly a year to remember.
Next: The Ambush in Austin