Razorback linebacker De’Jon Harris after playing his last game in the 24-14 loss to Missouri on Friday afternoon at War Memorial Stadium.
Hogs’ offense stalls in second half as Mizzou seals another two-win year
LITTLE ROCK — Maybe the best news Friday afternoon was the worst two-year run in Arkansas football history has hopefully ended for the suffering fans.
Missouri simply woke up enough to finish off the Razorbacks in the second half, 24-14, before an announced 33,961 fans that obviously included some empty bleachers at War Memorial Stadium.
This story will be updated
Hogs will mercifully end disastrous season with inconvenient game
The marketing angle you’ve heard about Friday’s game between Arkansas and Missouri has been the rather entertaining way somebody is trying to invent a rivalry game but it’s really just an inconvience.
That’s the case when you have a 2-9 team hosting a 5-5 team that has fallen like a rock in a pond (the Tigers started 5-1).
The only thing convenient about the Razorbacks playing in the War Memorial dump is the excuse it gives a lot of people to go deer hunting or simply stay home and watch the thing on television.
Nobody will admit it, but everybody from the coaches to the players are just glad this season is coming to a close. The coaches have been told to stay away from the football center until Wednesday, which could mean potential candidates will be in town.
Or it could mean they can start calling about jobs without having to worry about someone listening around the corner.
Take your best guess at what it means. The bottom line is it really doesn’t matter.
With Missouri’s appeal of a bowl ban this season denied last week by the kangaroo court that runs college athletics, their good fortune is they may be playing the only team in the SEC more anxious for the end of the year.
The Hogs don’t want to be in Little Rock for that game. The coaches don’t want to be there. Hunter Yurachek really has more important things to be doing.
Shoot, CBS is probably starting to wonder why they keep schedling Arkansas instead of anybody else the day after Thanksgiving.
If anything defines the dysfunction around Razorback football the last two years it’s the quarterback situation … and that’s just going to continue to the bitter end Friday.
Freshman K.J. Jefferson may start. Graduate transfer Nick Starkel may start. Original walk-on Jack Lindsey may be the starter. Over two seasons, seven different players have started behind center Ty Clary, who gave up checking a while back.
Oh, sure, there will be a few fans clinging to the hope that maybe, just maybe, this team can summon up that ol’ Razorback pride for one glorious rush to a victory could provide hope after 23 games of misery.
Others figure waiting on a jolly fat guy to come down the chimney on Christmas Eve is going to happen before that.
This is not a rivalry. It probably never will be, despite the hilarious attempts to market it as such by two teams that really haven’t had much of a rival for years.
Missouri had a pretty good one going with Kansas for a few years, but the truth is the Jayhawks will always have Kansas State down the road they are more concerned with.
Razorback fans always wanted a rivalry with Texas, but the fact is even in the heyday of the old Southwest Conference they had Oklahoma and Texas A&M they were more worried about than the Hogs.
The SEC’s expansion has worked out pretty well in football for everybody but Arkansas.
The Aggies came in and beat Alabama and won 10 games their first season. The Tigers won East titles back-to-back in their second and third years in the league.
The Hogs’ record against the two newcomers to the league is 1-12. Let that sink in for a couple of minutes.
Missouri, who many of the so-called experts said would never be competitive in the SEC, has won two division titles and is 57-43 while Texas A&M is 67-35.
Arkansas is 37-61 over that same time frame.
The Hogs are looking for a coach for the second time in two years. It will be the fourth coach since the SEC expanded in 2012 and forever changing the league.
For whatever reasons, Arkansas hasn’t been able to keep up in football.
All of which is why Friday’s game will be a merciful end … regardless of the outcome.
That may not be pretty, either, but the guess here is the Tigers will play with more pride.
Missouri 48, Arkansas 21
Easy pickings
Clemson (-27.5) over South Carolina, Georgia (-28.5) over Georgia Tech, Tennessee (-21) over Vanderbilt and Florida (-17.5) over Florida State.
Ole Miss at Mississippi State (-1)
Let’s see now, the line gives the home team an automatic three-point advantage, so that means on a neutral field the Rebels would be favored by two points. In the history of this series, the team with the least to play for usually does better. The Bulldogs are trying to get bowl eligible, Ole Miss can’t be … which is why they will win this game.
Ole Miss 31, Mississippi State 28
Louisville at Kentucky (-3)
The Wildcats have somehow managed to get bowl eligible this year as they haven’t quit on Mark Stoops and, indeed, have figured out how to get a little better almost every week. This matchup is a little more heated that most people know, but Kentucky will use whatever home-field edge they get in football.
Kentucky 28, Louisville 24
Alabama (-3) at Auburn
Gus Malzahn, embattled down on The Plains with an 8-3 record, gets a chance to prove what he can do against a cripple Crimson Tide team. Nick Saban doesn’t have his starting quarterback and a lot of freshmen on defense while Malzahn has maybe the best defense he’s had at Auburn and needing a win in the worst way. Can the Tigers give some clarity to the playoffs … without getting there? Somehow, I think so.
Auburn 24, Alabama 20
Texas A&M at LSU (-17)
Yes, the Aggies are paying Jimbo Fisher $7.5 million a year for a team sitting on seven wins while LSU pays Ed Orgeron $4 million to have an undefeated team that could be staring at a national title. And some Tigers faithful wanted Fisher instead of Orgeron. This game is personal for Orgeron, who still thinks they were hosed at College Station last year.
LSU 45, Texas A&M 17
Lots of gratitude, appreciation, but no win for Hogs this week
Gratitude. Appreciation. Thanksgiving. Yes, thanks to Sarah Josepha Hale we get to overindulge on a homestyle buffet yearly while we extend our recognitions to those in our lives for which we deem worthy.
Fortunately for me I have the platform to express my love and thanks publicly, and, yes, I will take advantage of this at the bottom of this piece for any who are interested.
But I digress.
As far as my work in writing opinion pieces go, I would like to state a big thank you to every single one of the radio personalities and workers who provide great content enabling us to promote their shows along with HitThatLine.com. To my fellow writers here, you guys are amazing and always supportive.
Along those lines I am also appreciative to Andy Hodges. Without him giving me a shot, who knows what opinion-piece writer with actual talent you would have the opportunity to read.
My deepest obligation of thankfulness in fact goes to you, the loyal and casual reader.
Whether you have been supportive of every piece or a critic of even just one, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. We do this for you and because of you, so our gratitude falls fully into your possession.
As Razorbacks fans we also have the ability to be grateful for so many things which bring us pleasure… and heartache.
Historically, Arkansas has provided us with so many memories and triumphs. As of late, football and basketball have seemed to be more of a let-down instead of joyful entertainment.
However, let’s see what we can be appreciative of at this point.
Hunter Yurachek — I could be wrong, but this guy seems to know how to run an athletic administration, and unless it was simply banter to appease the fanbase, he may actually be in-tune with technology, utilizing it to recognize we were not happy with the situation in the football program.
Mike Neighbors — The women’s basketball coach seems to know what he is doing in engineering the building of a successful system.
The Women’s Soccer Team — Way to go ladies! What you have accomplished the past two-seasons is remarkable, and we are extremely proud of you.
The Dismissal of Chad Morris — I know, I know. I was one of his longest lasting supporters.
Confession: if you have ever seen the video of his initial arrival to Arkansas at an NWA airfield, I almost immediately worried we had made the wrong decision when he was confused about which side of the SUV to enter.
Dave Van Horn — Okay, tis not the season, however, if you are not a fan of this guy year round then why are you also mad at the world?
Eric Musselman — Even if you are worried the basketball Hogs will fade as the schedule gets tougher, one cannot deny his enthusiasm, knowledge, and the way the program is looking early in his tenure. This guy knows his stuff. Have you seen the video of him leading the Calling of the Hogs after the Georgia Tech game?
The End of Football Season — I guess this one is in the eye of the beholder. While I do love Saturdays in the fall and will miss the anticipation of each game, I will not long for the stress and frustration that comes with each demoralizing loss. I do hate it ending for the staff and the players, especially the senior class.
Nolan Richardson — We are honored for all you have done and for allowing your name to don our beautiful basketball court inside of Bud Walton Arena.
The Close to the Vest Approach in the Coaching Search — Yurachek keeps progressions in his attempt to fine a new head coach for the Razorbacks very confidential. Why is this important to me? Because it drives all of the “I have a source” message board guys nuts and keeps them at bay.
ALL Players and Staff — THANK YOU all. We know you have many sacrifices in wearing the name and logo of our state upon your uniforms, and win or lose we are extremely proud of you. Seniors, thank you, and we hope and pray for only the best as your journey through life is just beginning. To the underclassmen, stay the course and enjoy each second.
Now, onto the topic at hand.
Missouri rolls into Little Rock this Friday, and it is a game many have tried to build as a rivalry.
Unfortunately, the Battle Line Rivalry just does not have the “we hate you” feel despite there being a traveling trophy awarded annually to the winner.
Perhaps it is due to neither team tearing up the national football scene year in nor year out. Maybe it is because our lifestyles and culture are so similar.
Or it is most likely the people from Arkansas do not want to be banned from Silver Dollar City.
Whatever the reason, the closest thing we have to disliking the Tigers is Kelly Bryant being their quarterback after spurning Morris and Arkansas.
Bryant’s taking the field may draw the ire from a few of the tailgate happy Little Rock fans, yet taking into consideration Arkansas being 2-9 and Missouri finding our this past Tuesday their bowl ban will be upheld, no one seems too pumped about this contest.
One might say Barry Lunney, Jr., being the interim coach has generated some interest in this game, but I confess I am curious to how much Jack Lindsey will play, and I am excited to see him getting the opportunity he deserves given his dedication to the state and the program as well as where we are this late in the season. Good luck, young man.
Four small possible factors of the game:
As mentioned, Missouri had this game marked on their schedule as at 5 – 6 a victory would make them bowl eligible.
The NCAA Football deities were having none of it as an appeal to a bowl ban extending from self-reported infractions was denied.
Head coach Barry Odom may be allowing his players to check out and simply make an appearance at War Memorial Stadium. He also might be playing the “this is our bowl game” card as motivation.
Lunney is marketing this final game of 2019 as a chance to show improvement and an opportunity for the seniors to close their careers with a win.
The question then becomes are the players on board, or are they simply ready to call it a day and prepare for their next step on life’s voyage?
Missouri has slightly improved throughout the season. Granted, the Tigers were expected to do great things this year, yet they never fully lived up to the hype, their potential, or both.
Many will blame Bryant’s knee injury suffered early in the 2019 campaign. Realists will point out a large number of people hopped onto a train loaded down with buildup and less than expected talent.
Arkansas’s defense is still Arkansas’s defense, and, in all fairness, while I support the players, we struggle stopping anyone.
And by “stopping anyone,” I mean every team we have faced this season has looked like Alabama in disguise … except for Alabama who looked like Chuck Norris squaring off against the guy who plays right field for your men’s league softball team.
No matter what, we are on national television this week, and hopefully the Hogs are thirsty enough we can make a spirited effort in defeating Missouri this week.
Fingers crossed as things have gotten bad over the past two-seasons, even when compared to the previous six-seasons.
How bad you ask? Rumor has it Hunter Yurachek’s office has received 129 calls this week requesting our making homecoming appearances in 2020.
Truthfully, I want to pick Arkansas so bad to win this one … I just cannot.
Tigers, 31–17.
Short and sweet this week. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
Be sure to tune in early to listen to the pre-game banter and the game itself with a 1:30 p.m. kickoff via HitThatLine.com, and on the air at ESPN Arkansas 95.3 in the River Valley, 96.3 in Hot Springs and 104.3 in Harrison-Mountain Home.
The HTL Weekly Pick Contest is in its final week. As I announced previously I have devised a new strategy of not looking at the standings in an attempt to avoid normal picks solely to gain ground on Mr. Andy Hodges.
I will look Saturday night to see if it has paid off. Let’s finish this perfect.
Ole Miss at Mississippi State: Does anyone outside of the state of Mississippi understand why the call this the Egg Bowl? Does anyone inside of the state know how doltish it sounds? State gets this at home. Bulldogs by 7.
Missouri at Arkansas (in Little Rock): I must wonder how much longer the CBS executives will keep this as their Friday after Thanksgiving match-up. Perhaps they have a strategy regarding required appearances and holiday shopping viewing statistics of which I am not familiar. Hogs by 3. I mean, Tigers by 14.
(3) Clemson at South Carolina: It would be nice for the SEC if the gamecocks could knock Clemson out of contention late in the season. Unfortunately, this will not happen. Tigers by 24.
(4) Georgia @ Georgia Tech: The in-state rivalry will not prove to be much of a game I feel. Bulldogs by 28.
Louisville at Kentucky: The ACC Cardinals are not world beaters with a 7–4 record. They are better than Kentucky. Louisville by 20.
(5) Alabama at (15) Auburn [GAME OF THE WEEK]: If Tua were playing this would be a much simpler pick. Alabama’s defense is a little less than their normal superior status, yet so is Auburn’s offense. I feel Gus Malzahn is conservatively coaching for his job. Alabama needs a big showing for a late push into the BCS. Something has to give, and it is anyone’s guess (as usual) in the Iron Bowl. Bama by 3.
Vanderbilt at Tennessee (SLOPFEST OF THE WEEK]: I have zero hopes in picking this game. Vanderbilt is down, yet you know never know which Tennessee team is going to arrive. Luckily for the Vols the host Vandy in the final week of the regular season. Tennessee by 26.
Texas A&M at (1) I mean, (2) LSU: What a joke it is Ohio State “the” University jumped LSU in the polls. I heard the fine gentlemen on ESPN Radio’s “The Morning Huddle” discussing how it most likely a move by the committee for television ratings. Honestly, my opinion, this is very feasible. Regardless, I hope it simply motivates Ed Orgeron & Company to prove even further how much they belong in the national spotlight. Apologies to my loyal reader Kristi in Dallas, but this one goes to LSU. Tigers by 28.
Florida State at (11) Florida: Is there enough Seminole magic for Florida State to pull the upset against a very solid Florida team at the Swamp? Nope. Gators by 21.
Take these to Vegas and lock them in.
Family, friends, and loved ones, thank you for being in my life. I am also grateful for those along my career path (both past and current), people who have forgiven me for my many mistakes, and especially my Heavenly Father through whom all things are possible. Why You continue to bless me is beyond my scope of knowledge, however, I am forever in Your debt.
Find me on ‘Twitter’: @PeterMorganWPS
Go HOGS!!!
???? Halftime Pod presented by Jeff’s Clubhouse — Clay Henry’s full take on Mike Leach
Tye on Barry Switzer’s favorite candidate, Clay’s take on Mike Leach, plus Herbie’s slip up!
Musselman on not using timeouts, win over Georgia Tech
Razorbacks coach Eric Musselman talked about moving past the overtime win over the Yellowjackets on Monday night and getting ready for Northern Kentucky on Saturday.
Jones on first game-winning 3-pointer against Tech he can remember
Arkansas’ Mason Jones hit a long 3-pointer at the end of overtime Monday night to give the Hogs a road win over Georgia Tech and he talked about that Wednesday.
Hogs’ fans just want competitive teams … what happened to championships?
Football fans in Arkansas don’t even talk much these days about championships, instead seemingly re-focusing on just getting being able to keep things a little closer.
Yes, a program that was one of the 10 winningest programs in all of college football from 1958 to 1992 has fallen to being mentioned as one of the worst today.
It’s a slide that slipped when Frank Broyles tried to make the best of what he knew back in 1990 was going to take a heavy turn downward because he’d already had conversations and discussions about a merger between the Southwest Conference and the Big 8 didn’t include the Razorbacks.
Most fans these days don’t even talk about competing for a conference championship (which the Hogs have never won in the SEC) as the goal. These days the goal appears to be 6-6.
It was Lou Holtz who said back in 1977 that people live up to — or down to — expectations. Arkansas has turned into a program that rewarded a .500 coach with a contract extension that included a ridiculous buyout after the 2014 season.
A lot of people applauded the move. Some of us wondered at the time if it wasn’t the dumbest move made in Razorback athletics history.
Hindsight can point to that as the defining moment the foundation was laid for mediocre expectations that make average seasons as being considered a success.
Thus Hog fans find themselves mired in yet another coaching search where one person is deciding things and it really doesn’t matter what former coaches, players or even the rank-and-file fans think.
Hunter Yurachek is making the decision, which does eliminate the need for fans to settle on who to aim at if it goes wrong. Based on his recent basketball hiring, though, you kinda like the fact he’s picking the next coach.
There are some whispers that a couple of money people are pushing current Florida International coach Butch Davis, who is 68 and probably ranks third in Miami among college coaches in popularity behind Mario Cristobal and Lane Kiffin.
Kiffin, by the way, is who some fans want (imagine a single Kiffin turned loose on Dickson Street may be what keeps him from getting the job). Others hold out a pipe dream that Mike Leach gets the job, which is being content to keep coming up short, but scoring a bunch of points doing it.
Everybody’s got an answer in today’s world where more fans want affirmation instead of information. Let’s face it, if you put enough names on a hot board list the odds are in your favor one of them is going to be the pick.
Right now a lot of Razorback football fans have actually floated the idea of getting a coach in just to settle down the program, restore some credibility and set the stage for the next coach. It wasn’t intentional, but that’s kinda what Danny Ford did for Houston Nutt.
Yurachek is the only one I hear talking about finding a coach to compete for championships. Fans, by and large, apparently can’t grasp that competing for a title of any sort is remotely possible.
Apparently the athletic director is the only one that dares to speak the word championship and doesn’t exactly appear to be the type with a lot of patience for coaches that can’t point the ship in that direction.
Which is precisely the attitude everybody should have, in my opinion.
Razorback fans should be careful about hoping or even willing to be happy being mediocre. Many were ecstatic winning 10 games a year and finishing third in the SEC West just a few years after flying banners over the stadium to fire the coach winning 10 games and going to the conference championship game.
What changed? From this view it’s been lowered expectations and many willing to make excuses to not compete for a championship.
Yurachek apparently doesn’t think that way.
And it may make a difference in this coaching search.
Clary talked about what win could mean to program for offseason, next year
Razorbacks center Ty Clary talked after practice Tuesday about what getting a win in the season’s last game at War Memorial Stadium on Friday could mean to the program going foward.
Bell on ‘bittersweet moment’ playing last game Friday in War Memorial
Arkansas defensive end Jamario Bell after practice talked Tuesday about the “bittersweet moment” of playing his last game in Little Rock, where he played in state championship games.
