HOW WE SEE 2021

KEYS FOR ARKANSAS NEXT YEAR INCLUDING GETTING BIGGER IN THE TRENCHES AND FINDING A QUARTERBACK

CLAY HENRY

HAWGS ILLUSTRATED

The goal last winter was to develop a bigger squad. It’s still a top priority. Watching the best teams in bowls, the noticeable difference from the Hogs is still size. Sam Pittman knows the deal, keep getting bigger. That’s what will determine success in 2021. They are trending up and that will continue as the team gets bigger. If they do this, the Hogs will actually play in a bowl after this season — and it likely will become a regular thing.

MATT JONES

WHOLE HOG SPORTS

Assuming Arkansas plays a traditional 12-game schedule with four nonconference games in 2021, the Razorbacks should be expected to qualify for a bowl game the old-fashioned way with at least six victories. An uninterrupted offseason of weight lifting — and potentially a spring practice season — should produce more physicality along both lines of scrimmage, which should improve the run game and pass protection on offense, and pass rush and ability to stop the run on defense. Arkansas’ ceiling will be determined by how well it can replace the departing game-day leadership and production at quarterback.

DUDLEY E. DAWSON

HAWGS ILLUSTRATED

Mixing in some talented newcomers and specialists, along with a full spring practice and summer camp, I think a .500 season or over is on the horizon. That’s a nice next step to a season that has some old SWC flavor (with Rice, Texas and Texas A&M) and an instate foe (Arkansas-Pine Bluff).

BART POHLMAN

THE HOG POD

Arkansas impressed almost everyone in Sam Pittman’s debut season, but there’s still work to be done to catch up with the rest of the SEC West. There’s not a more important position than quarterback, and with Feleipe Franks gone, who’s going to take the reins? And can the Hogs improve enough up front on both sides of the ball?

SCOTTIE BORDELON

WHOLE HOG SPORTS

Thanks in large part to the seven seniors taking advantage of the extra year provided by the NCAA, Arkansas has a good deal of talent at a number of positions and quality players with plenty of experience returning. The Razorbacks’ success, though, will come down to the progression of the quarterbacks, particularly KJ Jefferson. Is he ready to step into the spotlight full time?

If he is, Arkansas could find itself in contention for the postseason.

SETH CAMPBELL

WHOLE HOG SPORTS

Sam Pittman far exceeded expectations in year one winning three games all against SEC competition. Expectations will be higher for Pittman and his staff in 2021, but if the first year is any indication expectations he doesn’t seem to worry about those. Who starts at quarterback will be a hot topic all offseason, but the next quarterback will only be as good as his offensive line. Getting Myron Cunningham for another year will be big in the long run so the offensive line develops.

TOMMY CRAFT

THE MORNING RUSH

Having more than a half dozen seniors back for another season adds depth that a second-year coach would never expect. Arkansas will be a more physical and experienced team, but one that has to be much improved on special teams if they want to match three SEC wins in 2021.

TYE RICHARDSON

THE MORNING RUSH

Can Sam Pittman find superb replacement hires for assistants moving on to other jobs? With coaches departing now and in the future, the answer will help determine whether this program sinks or swims under his leadership.