It was the Jonathan Williams and Alex Collins show in Fayetteville as Arkansas dominated UAB, 45-17.
What it means: The Razorbacks dominated from the opening whistle, getting out to a 35-0 first half lead behind 300-plus yards of total offense. Arkansas played well on both sides of the ball, and were improved on special teams with the exception of a few second-half miscues. The Hogs got back to what it does best behind strong ground performances from both Jonathan Williams and Alex Collins. Bret Bielema’s team has a good foundation from which to build as it heads to No. 1 Mississippi State next week.
What I liked: Turnovers and penalties had plagued the Razorbacks in their last few games. That trend was reversed today, a large contributor to their success against the Blazers. Arkansas had just one turnover and committed only two penalties. The Hogs have SEC opponents the rest of the way, and as they continue to grasp that elusive first conference win, playing clean football will be vital to their success.
What I didn’t like: Special teams continue to rear its ugly head for Arkansas. The Razorbacks’ lone turnover came on special teams, and nearly had another turnover late in the fourth quarter. Kick and punt return have to be shored up.
Key play: Up 21-0 in the second quarter, Arkansas failed to convert on third down for the first time. Bret Bielema then called the play of the year. The Hogs lined up in a fake field goal formation, and 350-pound offensive lineman Sebastian Tretola threw a touchdown pass. He then struck the Heisman pose.
What’s next: It was a good win for Arkansas, but now the task gets much tougher. The Razorbacks travel to Starkville to take on No. 1 Mississippi State next week.
After living in Birmingham, Ala., Jordan left the ground zero of SEC Nation to head south to Florida to tell the unique stories of the renowned tradition of SEC football. In his free time, his mission is to find the best locales around.
