16 Isaiah Sategna FB
Arkansas
2023 Results: 4-8, 1-7 SEC
2024 Projection: 5-7, 1-7 SEC
Overview:
Time heals all wounds…or maybe it’s winning? Either way, a familiar face will be back on the sidelines for the Hogs, with Bobby Petrino taking over as offensive coordinator this season. Sam Pittman had to make some changes and Petrino still has his creative and competitive edge, so it will be interesting to see how that works out.
Offense:
The Hogs bring back plenty of experience at all of the skill positions, with seven such starters returning, headlined by running backs, Rashod Dubinion and Issiah Augstave. The quarterback position looks like it will be filled by 6-6 Boise State transfer Taylen Green. He will need to improve upon his sub 60% completion rate to navigate the SEC, but the talent and athleticism are there. If a retooled offensive line can gel and stay healthy this team should be able to put up points.
Defense:
Arkansas really turned things around on defense in 2023 under new defensive coordinator Travis Williams. He will need to fill out a thin linebacker room but has experience up front and in the secondary with linemen Cameron Ball and Eric Gregory and safeties Hudson Clark and Jayden Johnson. This unit could improve on last year’s numbers if the linebacker position gets sorted out.
Final Thoughts:
The non-conference games are all winnable, and that’s a good thing considering the conference slate is brutal. But whose isn’t in the SEC? If the Hogs can steal a few, they may just go bowling, but 6 or 7 wins would be an accomplishment and perhaps enough to keep Sam Pittman employed.
