The Arkansas Razorbacks’ struggles against the Missouri Tigers continued on a snowy Saturday at Faurot Field, where they fell 28-21. Quarterback Brady Cook made a decisive 30-yard touchdown run with just under two minutes left, sealing Missouri’s victory and marking their third straight win in the Battle Line Rivalry series.
This latest defeat extended Arkansas’ losing streak to nine consecutive rivalry trophy games against Missouri, LSU, and Texas A&M, a disappointing trend that has left the Razorbacks with a 6-6 overall record for the season. Coach Sam Pittman expressed frustration with his team’s performance, particularly regarding turnovers, which have plagued Arkansas throughout the season. The Razorbacks have lost the turnover battle 18-1 in their last six games, leading to a staggering 70 points scored by their opponents off those mistakes.
Coach Eli Drinkwitz of Missouri praised his team’s resolve, emphasizing the importance of the seniors and the execution of crucial plays, particularly in high-pressure situations. With this victory, the Tigers improved their record to 9-3 for the season and remained unbeaten at home against Arkansas.
The game was characterized by late-game drama, as Arkansas briefly took the lead with a touchdown, only to be outmatched by Missouri’s swift response, showcasing their ability to perform in clutch moments. Despite the bitter defeat, some Razorbacks players had standout performances, including running back Ja’Quinden Jackson, who rushed for three touchdowns.
The weather also played a role in the game, with an estimated three inches of snow creating challenging conditions. The subzero temperatures were the coldest for an SEC game featuring the Razorbacks, adding to the intensity of the rivalry.
Looking ahead, Arkansas will await its bowl game assignment, which could potentially include the Gasparilla Bowl or the Birmingham Bowl. With the right adjustments, the Razorbacks have the potential to bounce back and make an impact in their upcoming bowl game.
Overall, while Arkansas continues to face difficulties in rivalry matchups, there remains a sense of hope that next season can bring a turnaround with improved performance and strategic changes. The resilience displayed throughout the season symbolizes the determination of the Razorback football program to reclaim its competitive edge.