Senior Spotlight: Arkansas LB Bumper Pool

Arkansas LB Bumper Pool bleeds Razorback red. His father, grandfather, and two aunts attended the University of Arkansas. His sister is now the Director of Football Relations for the school. Plus he grew up a huge Arkansas fan when he was little. Pool has lived out a childhood dream by being a productive player on his favorite childhood team. Now its time for him to help lead the Hogs to new heights.

Pool’s previous seasons

Arkansas lacked talent on defense in Pool’s underclassmen years, which gave him opportunities early on. As a freshman, Pool accumulated 29 total tackles. Then as a sophomore, Pool had 94 tackles. Bumper Pool was one of the bright spots for Arkansas during the terrible Chad Morris years in 2018 and 2019. But after Sam Pittman took over, Pool’s play was soon contributing to winning. In the past two years, Pool ranked in the top ten in the SEC in total tackles.

Pool is not known as an elite edge rusher. Nor can he line up in a three point stance on the line of scrimmage. This makes his contributions undervalued compared to other linebackers. However, Pool’s contribution at Will linebacker cannot be understated. His ability to read and react in the short passing game keeps teams from gaining yards after catch. Additionally, Pool is a very good run defender, as he’s able to elude zone blocks at the second level and get to the RB quickly. Bumper can also track down RBs when they stretch to the strong side of the offense. This separates him from the pack of average linebackers.

Pool and safety Jalen Catalon should be the leaders of the Arkansas defense in 2022. Pool should continue to be a good run defender, and a person who limits the short passing game. Also with a dynamic athlete like Drew Sanders next to him, Pool should be asked to blitz less this year. Bringing back an experienced linebacker like Pool is invaluable. He has seen a different offensive sets that SEC teams run, and is able to read and react quickly to them.