3 questions about this year's Arkansas football season

Has the offensive line improved enough?

Last season's offensive line performance was disgusting.

It's hard to believe they regressed so much from 2022 to 2023, but it happened. The biggest problem was that the Razorbacks didn't have a true left tackle. Devon Manuel looked out of position, but he was, by far, the best option. Beaux Limmer was also a downgrade from Ricky Stromberg, struggling compared to what he did at guard in 2022.

It can't all be placed on the player's shoulders, though. It's one thing for Cody Kennedy to be the only coach who failed to bring in a four-star prospect under Sam Pittman, but not developing the talent he had was inexcusable. On the other hand, Dan Enos' offense didn't do them any favors. Instead of using protections and plays that help struggling offensive lines, he called one drop-back pass after another.

This season, both of those guys are gone, replaced by Eric Mateos as the OL coach and Bobby Petrino as the OC. We don't know how good they'll be yet, but Petrino is known for building offenses around his players.

Speaking of the players, Arkansas brought in three linemen who have had an instant impact. Addison Nichols from Tennessee took the open spot at center, while Keyshawn Blackstock took over the duties at right tackle, moving Patrick Kutas to guard, his natural position. Last but certainly not least is Fernando Carmona at left tackle. The new leader of the group, Carmona, is bringing the best out in his teammates across position groups.

As far as the success of the entire team, this is the position to watch. Arkansas has weapons in the skill positions, but will the OL additions made in the transfer portal actually make a big enough difference in August?