Reliable receivers support Arkansas in SEC-leading 3rd-down conversion rate

There's one thing that Arkansas does better than every other SEC team, and that's converting third downs. The Hogs rank No. 8 in the country and No. 1 in the SEC, converting 53 percent of their third-down opportunities. With two great running backs, the Hogs convert many third-downs on the ground, but luckily, Arkansas has three reliable receivers that help keep the chains moving.

Andrew Armstrong, Isaac TeSlaa, and Isaiah Satagena are among the top 10 most productive third-down pass catchers going into week eight, according to Clark Brooks of On3 Sports, also known as 'Stat Cat'. Brooks ranks TeSlaa at No. 3, Armstrong at No. 4, and Satenga at No. 7 based on yards. The trio account for 17 of Arkansas's 47 third down conversions and have gained a combined 361 yards.

However, Armstrong attracts the lion's share of targets, with his number being called more than TeSlaa and Sategna combined. Of those targets, he's caught them 69 percent of the time. The other two receivers haven't had as many chances, but they've done much with them.

TeSlaa was targeted on third down four times for three receptions, but with those three grabs, he's gained 135 yards, including his 75-yard touchdown against Texas A&M. On the other hand, Sategna is somewhere in the middle. He's been targeted eight times, catching 5 for 106 yards. That's 21.2 yards per reception versus Armstrong's 13.3.

Not only do the three provide the Hogs a legitimate threat on the outside on third down — taking pressure off the rushing game — but they also give Arkansas multiple ways to succeed through the air. Adding that extra layer of mystery is a nightmare for opposing defenses. No matter how they plan to attack the Razorbacks or the distance to the chains, offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino and the Arkansas offense can beat them on third down more times than not.