A new defensive identity and an improved Johnell Davis shined against Texas

Arkansas proved its win against Kentucky wasn't a fluke by beating Texas, 78-70, for its second-straight win on the road. They are starting to validate themselves as true threats in the SEC, winning three of their last four games, with their only loss during that stretch coming by one possession.

The Hogs have found their identity, which is their defensive effort and intensity. Their defense has led them to play well on offense, which is a nice change from the start of conference play. They played with confidence and controlled aggression that wasn't evident earlier in the season on both sides of the ball.

Arkansas vs Texas: Box score analysis

Defensive Intensity

As mentioned previously, defensive intensity has become the Hogs' identity. They have a plethora of athletic, lengthy players that disrupt opposing offenses. Their team chemistry has improved immensely, which has resulted in more effective communication and sharper rotations.

Arkansas was all over the place on defense and was very disruptive, forcing 11 turnovers, including eight steals. According to NCAA.com, they rank 5th in the nation in blocks at 5.6 per game, and they exceeded those stats by having a block party against Texas with seven rejections. They also made it difficult for Texas to get into an offensive rhythm, holding them to 34.4% from the field and 27.3% from behind the arc.

Offensive Turnaround

The biggest difference in their recent success has been their offense. They look more confident and poised, and they are hitting their shots. In their last two games, they shot 55.2% and 44% from the field and 52% and 41.2% from three, respectively.

They played aggressively by getting a ton of paint opportunities. From that aggression, they were able to score 26 points in the paint and get to the free-throw line 35 times, knocking down 27 attempts.

Player Standouts

Johnell Davis has come alive and put together three consecutive games of 18 or more points. He had his best performance of the season against Texas, scoring 24 points, five rebounds, two assists, and four steals. This is the version of Davis Arkansas fans have been expecting all season.

Zvonimir Ivisic continues to impress and be impactful on both ends of the floor. He contributed nine points, 12 rebounds, two assists, and four blocks. His floor spacing has opened up the driving lanes and makes the offense more versatile.

Adou Thiero played this game while sick but was still productive and impactful on both ends of the floor. He scored 14 points, shooting 80% from the field, and grabbed five rebounds. The only knock on this game was his free-throw shooting, where he made six of his 12 attempts.