FAYETTEVILLE — The Arkansas Razorbacks will see a change at quarterback as KJ Jackson is set to start against Missouri on Saturday at Reynolds Razorback Stadium. This decision comes as Taylen Green, who has been the starting quarterback for Arkansas for the entire season, will be sitting out the game.
Green had an impressive streak, starting 24 consecutive games for the Razorbacks (2-9, 0-7 SEC), but his role has taken a turn following his performance in last week’s 52-37 loss to Texas. During that game, Green was replaced by Jackson in the third quarter after throwing his second interception. Jackson’s entry into the game marked a fresh opportunity; he finished the game completing 16 of 29 passes for 209 yards, contributed a touchdown pass, and even added a rushing touchdown. Despite showing promise, he fumbled during a sack that led to a score for Texas.
Green appeared to struggle with a hamstring issue, prompting interim head coach Bobby Petrino to keep him on the sidelines despite confirming that Green was cleared to return. Petrino’s philosophy favors consistency over rotation at the quarterback position; however, he acknowledged the possibility of alternating quarterbacks, stating on the Razorback Sports Network pregame show that both Jackson and Green could see playtime.
This will be the first start of Jackson’s collegiate career, although he has appeared in five games during his time at Arkansas. Meanwhile, Saturday marks the end of Taylen Green’s college journey. The redshirt senior, who transferred to Arkansas after three seasons at Boise State, had a notable career with 3,154 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions prior to this season. In 2023, he has thrown for 2,655 yards with 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, alongside 773 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns.
As the Razorbacks prepare for the matchup against Missouri (7-4, 3-4), they will be looking to conclude the tumultuous season on a high note with Jackson at the helm. Fans will be eager to see how the freshman quarterback performs in this high-stakes environment and if he can help the team secure a much-needed victory.