Three Point Stance on Arkansas Football

As the Razorbacks continue Fall camp in preparation for the 2025 season, optimism is brewing in Fayetteville. Coming off a 7-6 2024 campaign, Sam Pittman and the Hogs are poised to continue the growth of this program. This piece delves into how Pittman can leverage improved depth, emerging talent, and steadfast leadership will serve Razroback fans well. This “Three Point Stace” explores these pillars with a singular theme of resilience. 

Three Point Stance on Arkansas Football Entering 2025

Point 1: Depth on the Offensive Line

As we begin this three-point stance on Arkansas, a main area of concern for Arkansas, the past few seasons has been its offensive line. Yes, Pittman made his name coaching this position. However, this has been an area of construction for Arkansas, and the tools have been acquired. There is now depth up from offensively for the Razorbacks. Reports out of Fayetteville suggest that Arkansas has utilized young and experienced talents to develop a competitive roster. This has been praised by Pittman and offensive line coach Eric Mateos in press conferences since camp opened. 

Mateos made waves during a recent press conference while praising how the group has been working this fall. The second-year coach in Fayetteville was asked about his players wearing knee braces and replied, “We are already the worst athletes on the field, so I would like to not make that more so,” while referencing the movie Forrest Gump. His group has shown continuity this fall, and the stellar recruiting and relationship-building have been evident. 

More than numbers, Arkansas added quality starts in games. We at Last Word have spoken in detail regarding the influx of talent on this roster. This depth and experience provide the staff with somewhat of a safety net against injuries, which have been critical in seasons past. Pittman spoke on this in Atlanta at SEC Media Days as a reason for confidence entering this season. Would the possibility of not allowing 36 sacks as they did in 2024 excite you? 

Point 2: Taylen Green is Money 

Yes, that is a wordplay. But, with the aforementioned offensive line depth, he really could be money for Arkansas. The second-year starter under offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino looks to take Arkansas to the next level. With an increased arm strength and mobility entering this swiftly approaching season, Green could be a nightmare for some and a dream for others. 

The innate ability to extend plays makes Arkansas a nightmare for opponents. In a conference with high-scoring offenses, Arkansas has to be able to score along with them to compete. If history repeats itself with Petrino (no jokes here), this season can be special for Arkansas. With a retooled wide receiver room and a plethora of running backs, Green has all the tools for success. 

The true test is in the resilience shown by Green. When the game gets tough at Ole Miss in week three, how does he and the offense respond? Moments such as these will tell us if Green will take a giant leap for Arkansas football. With a youthful room including backup KJ Jackson, who has impressed in camp, this room proves the commitment to the potency now and in the future. 

Point 3: Pittman Shows Resilience Under Pressure 

In what seems to be a recurring theme, according to some, Sam Pittman enters the season on the proverbial hot seat. As with any coach or person who is constantly asked the same questions, Pittman has dismissed, sometimes with sass, such as at SEC Media Days. The leadership is evident when you look at the totality of his tenure. From the Chad Morris era to now, there is obvious improvement. The “Col Beer” coach has a way of drawing talent to Fayetteville, Arkansas, and the roster is proof. 

Freshman Reginald Vaughn spoke of a “Family vibe” when speaking with the media locally regarding how the program integrates newcomers while maintaining high morale. In this new era of college football, this is impactful with the adversity that can erupt with NIL, and such. Not only this, but Pittman has handled some sticky situations with resilience, confidence, and steadfastness in his decisions for the program. 

The decision to bring Petrino back to Fayetteville was met with neck braces, as we at Last Word have discussed. Let’s sit back and think about the depth of this decision. Pittman is coming off a 4-8 season, his seat is hot, and he needs to make a spark. Who in their right mind would have thought Petrino is who one he would reach out to? Not us, that is for sure. This decision is about the longevity and commitment to success. With decisions such as these, Pittman can now manage this program as a coach. While allowing his staff to manage their groups. This resilient leadership from Pittman is evident in the performance in critical moments throughout his tenure. 

Common Theme: Resilience 

The 2025 season for Arkansas will be defined by several factors. At the top of this list, we find resilience, something the Razorbacks understand well. A newfound depth from the offensive line projects that Arkansas can withstand a physical slate of games in and out of the SEC. Taylen Green’s growth within the offense and himself will provide resilience that could elevate Arkansas to new heights. The resilience already seen from Pittman continues to propel this program to brighter days in an ever-changing world of athletics, especially in the SEC. 

As camp ends and the season kicks off, Arkansas is embracing the past while working for the now and future. Whether it’s honoring Darren McFadden with a jersey patch or utilizing a 30-year-old Monte Harrison at wide receiver, this program is gritty and resilient. Arkansas has clung to this as a team, but how will this translate to the field? We will soon find out.