The problem with Arkansas is that, compared to programs across the country, it can be a top-third FBS program, but in the SEC, it still ranks near the bottom. ESPN released their post-spring SP+ update, and the Razorbacks rank No. 38.
Arkansas football ESPN SP+ projections
According to the article, the SP+ projections are based on returning production, recent recruiting, and recent history. While Arkansas takes a dip in the first two categories, relatively, the Hogs have had decent success over the last four years. Just maybe not to the standards that fans hold for the program.
ESPN only goes back four seasons, and in that time, Arkansas has finished with three winning seasons and three bowl wins. The total record is 27-24. It may be mediocre, but it's a winning record nevertheless. And while the Razorbacks lost much in the transfer portal this season, they retained key pieces in Taylen Green on offense and Xavian Sorey on defense. They also retooled needed positions like the offensive line and the secondary.
Still, compared to the SEC, Arkansas ranks No. 13. Only Kentucky, Vanderbilt, and Mississippi State rank lower than the Hogs.
Part of the reason Arkansas struggles in the SEC but is still relatively highly ranked is because of who it plays. With the SP+ projections, ESPN also ranked the toughest schedules. And just like it has been year after year, the Hogs have one of the hardest schedules in the country, coming in at No. 3. Only Florida and Oklahoma have a harder schedule.
SEC rankings according to ESPN SP+
- Alabama (2)
- Georgia (4)
- Texas (5)
- LSU (9)
- Ole Miss (11)
- Tennessee (13)
- Florida (14)
- Texas A&M (15)
- Oklahoma (16)
- South Carolina (17)
- Missouri (21)
- Auburn (25)
- Arkansas (38)
- Kentucky (43
- Vanderbilt (55)
- Mississippi State (71)