2. Arkansas
Dec 29, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks cheerleader during the game against the Texas Longhorns in the 2014 Texas Bowl at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Arkansas? Arkansas at number 2? I know, I might be crazy, but hear me out.
Let’s give credit where credit is due, Bret Bielema has turned an Arkansas team that was on the verge of becoming another Kentucky around. Last years Arkansas team was a lot more impressive than their 7-6 record would lead you to believe. The Hogs lost close games against Missouri, Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi State while outright dominating Ole Miss and LSU at the end of the season. If the Hogs had caught their momentum earlier in 2014 it could have been a whole different story.
There’s a lot of optimism in Fayetteville right now, and there should be. Arkansas is bringing back one of the most experienced quarterbacks on the SEC in Brandon Allen and a very light early schedule. If Arkansas can use their first 4 games to really get the ball rolling, everyone in the SEC should be worried.
Can Bielema continue the hog revitalization plan?
Arkansas’ first big test isn’t until October 6th at Tennessee, but that might be quite a test. Tennessee looks to be back in the mix in the SEC East this year.