The development of quarterback Brandon Allen is a major reason for Arkansas’ improved record this season.

It’s been easy to see. With solid protection from a massive offensive line, the senior is making good reads and delivering accurate throws.

Working with offensive coordinator Dan Enos, who left a head coaching job at Central Michigan to go to Arkansas, and going to the Manning Passing Academy have aided in Allen’s development.

“I think B.A. was amazed how he (Enos) was able to effect his throwing game,” Arkansas coach Bret Bielema told college football reporter Tony Barnhart. “What we now need from him is that he needs to play big in the big moments. He needs to be very efficient in those moments. We’ve challenged him to be the best (quarterback) in the SEC.”

The stats reflect Allen’s improved play.

Allen’s completion percentage has jumped from 56 percent last season to 64.4 this season. With two games remaining, he’s already thrown for 2,617 yards — more than 300 better than last season — and 22 touchdowns, two more than last season.

Allen’s QB rating has jumped from 129.19 in 2014 to 163.18 this season. Perhaps most impressive, Arkansas is averaging 9.2 yards on passing attempts this season, up from 6.7 last season.

The progress has been steady throughout Allen’s three years as a starter. As a sophomore, he completed fewer than 50 percent of his passes for only 1,552 yards with 10 interceptions. His QB rating was only 109.02 and the Razorbacks averaged only 6 yards per pass attempt.

With standout RB Alex Collins, Allen’s passing skills make the Razorbacks difficult to defend.

Bielema acknowledges that Allen has improved, but said he’s also has a better supporting cast. In 2013, the Hogs won only three games. They were 7-6 last season. This season, they’re 6-4 and riding high after victories over two top 25 teams, Ole Miss and LSU.

“I think ‘BA’ is an improved quarterback from a year ago, but I think in general we’re a better offense because of personnel,” Bielema said. “Your quarterback is better with better players around him.”

The better personnel includes WR Drew Morgan and TE Hunter Henry. Morgan has 45 catches for 639 yards and nine TDs. Henry, who threw the blind lateral that kept Arkansas alive in overtime at Ole Miss, has 37 receptions for 490 yards and one TD.

Collins’ production has also increased. With 1,209 yards and 12 TDs, he’s already surpassed his totals from last season. Despite the loss of Jonathan Williams, Arkansas is still rushing for more than 200 yards per game.