Arkansas freshman linebacker Bumper Pool arrived on campus last winter as a 4-star signee with high expectations. The prevailing hope among Razorback fans was the Lucas, Texas, native would be an integral part of a respectable SEC defense at some point in his career.

Pool’s opportunity to be that player is coming earlier than expected. If the Hogs’ defense has any hope of returning to respectability in 2018, it’s clear after one game Pool must play a major role within the unit. He’s listed as the backup to Dre Greenlaw at weakside linebacker ahead of the Hogs’ meeting with Colorado State this Saturday. However, it’s very possible Pool makes the first of what should be many starts in his career.

Greenlaw sustained an ankle injury late in the first quarter against Eastern Illinois. He is listed as day-to-day with his availability for the Colorado State game uncertain. The senior was showing why he might be the Hogs’ best defender with 10 tackles and a forced fumble before the injury. Whenever he is healthy, he’ll definitely be plugged right back into the starting lineup.

But the number of snaps Greenlaw can play while remaining healthy is an issue worth considering. Throughout his career, he has twice had surgery on his right foot and dealt with other nagging injuries. As a result, his practice time the past two seasons has been limited with the idea of keeping him healthy as the top priority.

Defensive coordinator John Chavis made it clear in the preseason he would ideally limit Greenlaw to 50 snaps per game. Typically, that would leave another 20 or more snaps for a reserve. With Greenlaw already injured, it’d be wise to make the share of plays closer to an even split going forward.

That’s where Pool can step in and make a huge difference. The freshman impressed with six tackles, a pass breakup and a 60-yard fumble return in his debut against Eastern Illinois.

“Bumper came in and did a good job. It was a growing experience for him,” said defensive coordinator John Chavis. “I think he had about 39 plays, which was a good number. I didn’t know that he’d play that many when the game started, but when your number is called, you’ve got to be ready.”

Arkansas allowed an SEC-worst 36.2 points allowed per game last season. But Pool and several new contributors are providing optimism there won’t be a repeat of 2017. D’Vone McClure made his first-career start at nickel in the season opener, producing a sack and a forced fumble. Chevin Calloway had four tackles and forced a fumble in his first start at cornerback. Defensive ends Michael Taylor and Gabe Richardson contributed four tackles each in their first start.

The Hogs need similar performances from the previously inexperienced players to turn around their downtrodden defense. The first test was Eastern Illinois, though. The competition will get much tougher going forward, but the opportunities won’t wane for these new contributors. How they fare — with Pool serving as the most promising new piece — will ultimately determine the story of Arkansas’ 2018 defense.