The Arkansas Razorbacks’ 2024 football season has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, leaving fans and analysts debating the program’s trajectory under head coach Sam Pittman. While the season may not have unfolded as Arkansas fans hoped, it also highlights why the College Football Playoff (CFP) committee’s rankings and evaluations of the Razorbacks have been largely accurate.
Arkansas entered the season with lofty expectations, fueled by a talented roster and a fan base hungry for success. However, the Razorbacks’ inability to consistently perform in key moments has shown that while they have potential, they remain a step behind the nation’s elite programs. Here’s why the CFP committee’s assessment of Arkansas has been fair and reflective of their season.
The Razorbacks began the season with optimism, securing early wins against non-conference opponents and displaying flashes of brilliance on both sides of the ball. Quarterback KJ Jefferson entered the season as one of the most experienced signal-callers in the SEC, while the defense, led by key playmakers like linebacker Chris Paul Jr., showed signs of improvement.
However, as the competition ramped up, Arkansas struggled to maintain consistency. Close losses to SEC powerhouses like Alabama and LSU exposed weaknesses in execution and depth. The Razorbacks often found themselves competitive for three quarters, only to falter in critical moments. These performances reinforced the notion that Arkansas is a solid program but not yet at the level to contend with the top-tier teams.
The CFP committee likely took these factors into account when ranking Arkansas. While the Razorbacks demonstrated competitiveness, their inability to finish games against ranked opponents justified their placement outside the playoff conversation.
Offensive Struggles Undermine Talent
Despite having a dynamic quarterback in Jefferson and a bruising running back in Raheim “Rocket” Sanders, Arkansas’ offense struggled to find rhythm in key matchups. Offensive line issues plagued the Razorbacks throughout the season, leading to inconsistent protection for Jefferson and an inability to establish the ground game against elite defenses.
The Razorbacks’ offensive inefficiency was particularly glaring in losses to Ole Miss and Texas A&M, where they failed to capitalize on red-zone opportunities and committed costly turnovers. These shortcomings highlighted why Arkansas remained a fringe contender rather than a legitimate playoff threat.Defensive Progress, But Not Enough
On the defensive side of the ball, Arkansas showed marked improvement compared to previous seasons. The Razorbacks’ pass rush, anchored by Landon Jackson and Trajan Jeffcoat, kept opposing quarterbacks under pressure, and the secondary showed flashes of playmaking ability.
However, the defense struggled to maintain its effectiveness against high-powered offenses. Against teams like Georgia and Missouri, the Razorbacks gave up big plays in critical moments, ultimately leading to defeats. The CFP committee likely viewed Arkansas as a team with a solid defense but not one capable of consistently shutting down the nation’s best offenses.
The Razorbacks’ True Place in 2024
While Arkansas fans might feel disappointed by their exclusion from the upper echelon of CFP rankings, the committee’s evaluation reflects reality. The Razorbacks are a solid program with potential but lack the depth, consistency, and execution required to be considered among the top four or even the top ten teams in the nation.
However, it’s worth noting that Arkansas’ season also underscores the progress made under Pittman. The Razorbacks have gone from an SEC afterthought to a program that can compete with elite teams, even if they haven’t yet crossed the threshold into true national relevance.
The Razorbacks’ season, while frustrating at times, provides a blueprint for future success. Recruiting remains a priority, as Arkansas must continue to build depth along the offensive line and in the secondary to compete with SEC heavyweights. Additionally, the program must find ways to close out games and turn narrow losses into statement wins.
For Pittman and his staff, the challenge is clear: elevate the program to the next level while maintaining the toughness and grit that have become Arkansas’ trademark.
The CFP committee’s assessment of Arkansas may not have been what fans wanted, but it wasn’t far off. The Razorbacks’ 2024 season revealed a team with promise but one still a few steps away from joining the nation’s elite.
For Arkansas, the focus now shifts to building on the progress made this season and proving that they belong in the playoff conversation in years to come. The foundation is there, but the Razorbacks must take the next step to achieve the greatness their fans so desperately crave.