College football is a world filled with highs, lows, and tough decisions, both for players and coaches. When a key player decides to leave, it can shake up team dynamics, forcing a recalibration of strategies and morale. Sam Pittman, head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks, understands this better than most. His remark, “Not so easy, but much better without him,” referring to the departure of Montaric “Busta” Brown, encapsulates the complex nature of such decisions. While challenging, sometimes parting ways opens doors for growth and improvement, both for the player and the team.
Montaric Brown, a star defensive back for Arkansas, had been a cornerstone of the Razorbacks’ defense. Known for his impressive skills in coverage, tackling, and leadership on the field, Brown’s presence was vital to the team’s defensive unit. As a local Arkansas talent from Ashdown, he represented the homegrown talent that fans love to see rise through the ranks. However, following the 2021 season, Brown declared for the NFL Draft, marking the end of his college career and his time under Pittman’s coaching.
Pittman’s comment on Brown’s departure was striking. At first glance, it might seem dismissive, but a deeper look reveals a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with such a loss. The phrase “Not so easy” acknowledges the significant role Brown played on the team and the difficulty of adjusting to life without a player of his caliber. But the second half of the statement, “much better without him,” reflects Pittman’s belief in the resilience of the team and the potential for growth that can emerge when new leaders and talents are given the chance to shine.
During his time at Arkansas, Montaric Brown was a defensive force. He earned All-SEC honors in 2021, recording five interceptions, which was tied for the lead in the SEC that season. His ability to read the game, combined with his physicality, made him a key player in the Razorbacks’ defense. He was not only a statistical leader but also an emotional anchor for the team, a player his teammates could rely on in critical moments. Brown’s leadership qualities made him a role model for younger players, and his departure left a void that was not easy to fill.
When a player like Brown leaves, it impacts both on and off the field. The defense must adjust to new personnel, schemes might need to be adapted, and younger players are thrust into positions of greater responsibility. Pittman’s comment, “Not so easy,” is a recognition of these immediate challenges. Replacing Brown’s production and leadership was no small task for Arkansas, a program still in the process of rebuilding under Pittman’s guidance.
However, Pittman is not one to dwell on setbacks. His follow-up, “much better without him,” speaks to his philosophy as a coach. Pittman has always been about building a culture of accountability and next-man-up mentality. In college football, player turnover is inevitable—whether through graduation, early draft declarations, or the transfer portal. For Pittman, the departure of a star player like Brown, while challenging, also presented an opportunity for other players to step up and prove themselves.
In the wake of Brown’s departure, several young defensive backs were given a chance to shine. Players like Jalen Catalon and Myles Slusher emerged as new defensive leaders, eager to take on greater roles. For Pittman, this is the essence of college football—continual growth and adaptation. While it may be difficult to lose a player of Brown’s caliber, it can sometimes lead to a more balanced, dynamic team as others rise to the occasion.
Pittman’s remark also reflects the importance of team chemistry and balance. Sometimes, even when a player is highly talented, their departure can lead to a better distribution of leadership and opportunities across the team. Without the shadow of a dominant figure, younger or less experienced players may find the confidence to grow into new roles, helping the team develop a stronger, more unified identity.
From Brown’s perspective, his decision to leave Arkansas for the NFL was undoubtedly difficult, but one driven by his dreams and aspirations. For many college players, the NFL represents the pinnacle of success, and after a stellar college career, Brown believed he was ready to take that next step. Entering the 2022 NFL Draft was his chance to prove himself on a larger stage.
Though the transition from college to the pros is always challenging, Brown’s natural talent and work ethic have already carried him far. Whether he becomes a long-term NFL starter or carves out a niche role, his time at Arkansas, under Pittman’s coaching, will have prepared him well.
For the Arkansas Razorbacks, life after Montaric Brown hasn’t been easy, but the team has continued to improve under Pittman’s leadership. The coach’s ability to foster a culture of resilience and adaptability has ensured that, while losing a player like Brown was difficult, the program is in a better place because of the opportunities created for others. The defense has evolved, and the team continues to build toward long-term success.
In the end, Pittman’s remark, “Not so easy, but much better without him,” is a testament to his belief in his team’s ability to overcome challenges and emerge stronger. While losing key players is part of the game, it’s how a team responds that truly defines its character. And under Pittman’s watchful eye, the Razorbacks are building a culture of resilience, ready for whatever comes next.