Arkansas came out of nowhere in 2015.

The Razorbacks started slow, losing three straight games, then rattled off wins against notable teams such as Tennessee, Ole Miss, Auburn and LSU.

Brandon Allen was a huge factor in the team’s success. But even with Allen leaving, Arkansas is in prime position to be a major contender next season.

Here are 5 reasons why Arkansas will be a top 25 team in 2016.

1. Bret Bielema has his guys buying in: It’s clear that Bielema and his players have a common mission. His team played tough every week in 2015, it lost to good teams, but it was never blown out. The Razorbacks fell to Texas A&M 28-21 in overtime. They lost to Alabama 27-14 and barely got beat by Mississippi State 51-50. The 2016 team should have confidence instilled by the coach, who’s done a heck of a job.

2. Recruiting, recruiting, recruiting: Let’s be honest. Arkansas isn’t the sexiest of all of the destinations in the SEC. The Razorbacks still rank No. 8 in the conference and 23rd in the country in recruiting. They have locked down six four-star recruits headlined by McTelvin Agim, the No. 5 defensive end in the nation.

3. Alex Collins may stay: As we speak, Bielema is meeting with Collins to help decide the running back’s future. Collins had a breakout season finishing the year with 1,577 yards and 20 touchdowns. If he stays, Arkansas will be a force to be reckoned with.

4. The Razorbacks can compete in the SEC West: It isn’t likely that Arkansas will trump Alabama in next year’s SEC West standings. But the Razorbacks easily could finish second after a third-place finish this season. LSU, Texas A&M and Auburn are in transition. Arkansas is one of the most stable teams in the conference.

5. Arkansas’ defense is underrated: If the defense can improve against the pass, it will go from average to dominant. Arkansas was 12th in the country against the run, holding Derrick Henry and Leonard Fournette under 100 yards.