FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — This projection of Arkansas’ football season is based on analysis rather than emotion.
It outlines the possible outcomes for the Razorbacks this year, given a schedule that could be extremely tough. According to preseason projections and their predicted SEC standing, Arkansas didn’t catch any breaks.
The bright spots in their schedule include the opener against Arkansas-Pine Bluff and a game against Mississippi State just before Halloween. Last year’s game wasn’t a disaster, so this one shouldn’t be either.
UAPB should be an easy win. If the coaches aren’t considering a mercy-rule in the second half, like in their 2021 matchup, there’s a major problem. Mississippi State is the only team ranked lower than Arkansas by the media.
Best-case Scenario
Assuming the Razorbacks dominate UAPB, then handle UAB two weeks later in Razorback Stadium, they could be set up for success. To achieve the best-case scenario, Arkansas also needs to defeat Oklahoma State on the road in Week 2.
The Cowboys are ranked in the Top 25 by national magazines, and playing them after a potential trap game against FCS champion South Dakota State won’t be easy.
They will also face another ranked team, Texas A&M, likely for the last time in Arlington—a matchup that has historically not favored either team. The Razorbacks have only beaten the Aggies a couple of times in the past two decades.
A 4-1 record through the first five games might be overly optimistic. They need to be at least 3-2 in that stretch to have a shot at the best-case scenario.
In the tough final seven games, their best chances for wins are against Tennessee, LSU, Louisiana Tech, and hopefully an imploding Ole Miss, Texas, or Missouri by November.
Best-case number of wins: 7
Wins: UAPB, UAB, Louisiana Tech, Auburn, Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Missouri
Losses: Oklahoma State, Texas A&M, Tennessee, LSU, Texas
Worst-case Scenario
Imagine the worst possible outcome for the Razorbacks’ season—this is it. The fan base would be as outraged as during the previous coaching staff’s tenure.
There’s already significant apathy. People are already looking forward to basketball season.
Worst-case number of wins: 4
Wins: UAPB, UAB, Louisiana Tech, Mississippi State
Losses: Oklahoma State, Auburn, Texas A&M, Tennessee, LSU, Ole Miss, Missouri, Texas
Predicting the season involves accounting for variables like team development, injuries, and officiating decisions.
What do the fans think? Share your thoughts on how many games the Razorbacks will win or lose this year on our social media pages.
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