Over the past few years, the idea of even discussing a bowl bid for the Arkansas Razorbacks was laughable, however that is changing this year.
To begin even discussing the idea of a bowl game for the Razorbacks this season, people must look at where the program was before Sam Pittman arrived. The end of the Bret Bielema-Jeff Long era was not a kind one for the Hogs. Recruiting seemed to lag and fans started to expect less of the football program. Attendance plummeted and more Arkansas fans were in the deer woods than at Razorback Stadium.
However, the problem became more severe with the hiring of Chad Morris. Morris wanted an up tempo, high-powered offense but that was not the case. Special teams blunders as well as, defensive lapses plagued the Chad Morris version of the Arkansas Razorbacks. After back to back two and ten seasons enough was enough for the Razorbacks’ fan base. Attendance sank lower and the deer woods became even more crowded.
Arkansas Razorbacks Football: Expectations for Mississippi State
Arkansas Razorbacks football is facing some higher expectations against Mississippi State than what they showed against Georgia.
After a lengthy coaching search, Hunter Yurachek made the decision to hire Sam Pittman to be the head coach of the Razorbacks. Pittman brought Arkansas instant credibility regarding recruiting. Pittman’s reputation as an offensive line coach and a recruiter are solid. Pittman has quickly won over the fan base with an impressive work ethic and a drive to get the best out of his players.
Which leads us to this season. For many fans if you would have told them they would win two games this season they would have accepted with an eye towards next season. Arkansas now stands at 3-2, with a highly controversial Auburn game separating them from a 4-1 record. Arkansas fans now have eyes fixated on a bowl trip to close out what has been an unusual 2020 football season. For Arkansas fans, going to the Texas, Music City, Independence, or the Liberty Bowls would be a perfect close to the season and a big step toward being relevant on the national stage again.