Here are the five biggest takeaways from the Razorbacks’ shutout victory over LSU:

  • Defense dominates — The ability to sustain drives was nearly impossible for LSU who was shutout for the first time since the BCS National Championship game during the 2011 season. The Razorbacks tallied four sacks, limited the Tigers to a season-worst 123 yards of total offense and never let quarterback Anthony Jennings find a rhythm, chasing him out of the pocket throughout an anemic performance from the sophomore passer.
  • Brandon Allen directs offense — Five of Allen’s 16 completions moved the sticks on third down including several well-thrown balls to Keon Hatcher. With the Arkansas backfield held in check for the most part, kept possessions alive and kept the LSU secondary honest down field. He went turnover-free for the first time this season in SEC play.
  • Bielema avoids 0-8 SEC finish, could win two more — It took nearly three months of the season, but the Razorbacks have established an identity on offense and proved they can win without a stellar effort from their running game. Tight ends Hunter Henry and A.J. Derby are sure-handed targets that pose matchup problems for nearly every defense they face. Bielema’s stuck behind this team throughout and you could how well Arkansas was prepared on each side of the ball for its rivalry showdown with LSU.
  • Razorbacks staring at bowl berth — With the defense playing at an elite level over its last three games, suddenly contests with Ole Miss and Mizzou no longer look as imposing as before. The Rebels have given up on six rushing touchdowns all season (second-best in the SEC), but lost some of their mojo following their second loss of the year to Auburn on Nov. 1. All the Razorbacks need is one more win to reach a bowl game.
  • Arkansas stronger, more physical up front — One of college football’s most underrated teams at the point of attack thanks to overall record, the Razorbacks demand respect in the trenches. The inside-outside combination of Darius Philon and Trey Flowers up front was a constant headache for the Tigers and linebacker play, an element the Razorbacks struggled with last season, controlled the game. Martrell Spaight posted a game-high 10 tackles and forced a fumble leading to the only takeaway.