The Arkansas Razorbacks get a big win against former Southwestern Conference foe, Texas Tech, in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, winning 39-26. The Hogs move to 3-0 in bowl games under head coach Sam Pittman.
The Razorbacks came out of the hog pen on a roll with a barrage of explosive plays. Their first three possessions resulted in touchdowns. They ended the first quarter with 260 of their 559 total yards and a 21-3 lead. The second quarter was a different story.
Texas Tech gained all the momentum in the second after forcing a safety and fumble in back-to-back drives, containing the Razorback offense. They diminished their deficit by scoring 16 consecutive points. Arkansas then scored a field goal, ending the first half with a 24-19 lead.
In the second half, Arkansas' defense took control of the game. Marquise Robinson intercepted a pass deep in Arkansas territory saving a potential touchdown. On Texas Tech's next possession, Anton Juncaj sacked Will Hammond in the endzone for a safety.
Two possessions later for the Red Raiders, Miguel Mitchell got an interception and returned it 47 yards into field goal range. The Red Raiders scored a touchdown late in the fourth quarter, but it was too late to attempt a comeback.
The Razorbacks were without three starting offensive linemen, their top two receivers, and their top two running backs. That didn't faze Taylen Green, who had an impressive showing in the final game of the season. He recorded 341 passing yards and two passing touchdowns along with 81 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown.
Arkansas needed players to step up after many players entered the transfer portal and the draft, and they got what they needed. Dazmin James was a standout redshirt freshman recording three catches, 137 yards, and a touchdown in the first half before getting injured. These were his only catches of his collegiate career.
Isaac Teslaa is no stranger to the Razorback fanbase, and he also had a great performance with three catches and 107 yards. Rodney Hill had a massive 70-yard run on the first drive and ended with 81 rushing yards. Running back Tyrell Reed Jr. had his first career reception that resulted in a 47-yard touchdown.
There were some up-and-down moments in this game, but there was a lot to like about how Arkansas finished the season. The play-calling was fantastic, and other than the second quarter, the players had a good performance. Hopefully, this gives the team momentum heading into the spring.