At least we don’t have to ask whether Arkansas football can win an SEC game anymore.

Sam Pittman helped the Razorbacks snap the worst conference losing streak in school history in 2020, putting that question to rest. But the Hogs weren’t done with 1 SEC win. They won 3 conference games, more than their combined total from the 3 previous seasons.

The Hogs return 19 starters in 2021, and many believe they will take the next step in Pittman’s second season. Still, there are concerns. There always are concerns. Here are the 5 biggest as we close in on the season-opener.

1. The receiving corps

The Razorbacks return one of the top receivers in the country in Treylon Burks. They were slated to have deep-threat Mike Woods next to him, but Woods unexpectedly transferred to Oklahoma this offseason.

That leaves a huge void and it’s currently unclear who the No. 2 receiving option will be.

De’Vion Warren tore his ACL last season but had already surpassed career-highs across the board in only seven games. He will have a chance to play his best season in Fayetteville.

Other options include junior Trey Knox, Oklahoma transfer Jaquayln Crawford and freshman Ketron Jackson.

All eyes will be on new starting quarterback KJ Jefferson, but he needs his receivers to develop quickly.

2. The offensive line

Arkansas returns all 5 starters, which should equate to improvement.

However, the young unit struggled at times in Pittman’s first season. They finished 2020 ranked 113th in the FBS in sack rate and 104th in power success rate, according to Football Outsiders.

Pittman’s pride is the o-line. Another year of training under him should have them ready. If Arkansas hopes to compete in the SEC, Pittman has said many times that it starts up front. Still, this unit remains one of the biggest question marks heading into this season

3. Rushing defense

The Razorbacks often lined up in a 3-man front last season, which didn’t help them against the run.

They allowed 192.1 yards per game, 12th in the SEC. Arkansas has reportedly been working on versatility of its defensive linemen, wanting them to be able to play on the end as well as inside.

Whether the Hogs continue to operate in a 3-man front or move to a 4-3, something has to change. If they continue this system, the linemen have to be faster, stronger and more dangerous than they were last year.

4. The schedule

The Razorbacks again have what has been dubbed the toughest schedule in the country.

In addition to facing Texas in nonconference, Arkansas has contests against Texas A&M, Georgia, LSU and Alabama in SEC play. The Hogs were tasked with a similarly challenging schedule in 2020 and finished 3-7.

This year they’ll get the benefit of a couple of nonconference cupcakes, at least. Can they upset one of the country’s elite?

5. Can they top last season?

You couldn’t have asked for a better inaugural season from Pittman.

A 3-7 finish against an All-SEC schedule is a feat many thought was impossible. Now the coach is faced with the job of building on that year.

Expectations are growing.

It gets more difficult from here, as the goal is now 4 conference victories. Pittman brought in his first recruiting class this offseason. We’re going to start seeing how he envisions this program looking very soon.