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Calipari's post-honeymoon Hogs must survive 5 internal challenges going into SEC ball

Arkansas Razorback coach John Calipari's latest SEC marriage facing unprecedented twists and turns in 2025 SEC Conference campaign
ByPatrick Geans|
Jan 14, 2014; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Kentucky Wildcats John Calipari talks with Tyson Foods owner John Tyson before a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Bud Walton Arena. Arkansas defeated Kentucky 87-85 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Beth Hall-Imagn Images
Jan 14, 2014; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Kentucky Wildcats John Calipari talks with Tyson Foods owner John Tyson before a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Bud Walton Arena. Arkansas defeated Kentucky 87-85 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Beth Hall-Imagn Images | Beth Hall-Imagn Images
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3. On the Rebounding

The would-be heroes in Arkansas' back court have their share of young proteges in freshmen Carter Knox and Bill Richmond. But where the Razorbacks truly need a super hero to emerge is in the front court. Since Jaylin Williams left early for the NBA three years ago off back-to-back Elite Eight appearances under Musselman, the Razorbacks have not developed the kind of double-double machine every SEC and national title contender needs.

Aidoo was the most likely candidate. He averaged 11 points and seven rebounds a year ago with the Volunteers. So far, he's only logging six points and four boards in very limited playing time due to injuries to start the season. It's likely no coincidence that Cal's Hogs have looked most like the team Razorback fans expected to start the season since Aidoo has gotten increasingly healthy. Hopefully he's been saving his A-game for the return trip to Knoxville on Saturday.

At 6-8 and built like an All-SEC defensive end, Theiro leads the team in points (18) and rebounds (6-ish) going into SEC play. But if this team is going to thrive rather than survive in this SEC race, Aidoo and Adou will need Brazile and Zvonimir to get their weight up and play more like experienced SEC big men than spot up shooters.

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