The Arkansas Razorbacks faced another setback against the Missouri Tigers on Saturday, ultimately losing 28-21 at a snowy Faurot Field in Columbia, Missouri. This defeat extended Arkansas’s struggles in the Battle Line Rivalry series, marking Missouri’s third consecutive victory over the Razorbacks and pushing their record against Arkansas to 9-2 since both teams became part of the SEC.
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook made a dramatic contribution, scoring a 30-yard touchdown with just 1:53 left in the game, clinching the win for his team. Cook’s performance drew praise from Missouri coach Eli Drinkwitz, who expressed pride in his team’s resilience, especially the senior players and Cook’s ability to lead under pressure. This victory marks Missouri’s 20th win over two seasons and solidifies their perfect home record against Arkansas.
Despite leading into the fourth quarter, Arkansas could not secure the victory, plagued by turnovers, which have become a reoccurring issue for the Razorbacks. Head coach Sam Pittman noted that it’s challenging to win against a ranked opponent when struggling with turnovers. The Razorbacks had two significant turnovers that allowed Missouri to score 14 points.
Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green showed promise, completing 21 of 35 passes for 229 yards while also contributing 53 rushing yards. Running back Ja’Quinden Jackson led the team with 87 rushing yards and three touchdowns. However, missed opportunities in the closing minutes prevented the Razorbacks from capitalizing on their offensive drives.
The game took place in harsh weather conditions, with approximately three inches of snow and frigid temperatures, making it a challenging environment for players from both teams. This was the first game at Faurot Field with measurable snowfall since 1998, adding a unique element to the matchup.
As the Razorbacks gear up for bowl season, they await confirmation of their bowl bid, with likely options including the Gasparilla Bowl or the Birmingham Bowl. Despite the recent disappointments, there remains hope for the future as the team looks to build on their experiences and improve in the upcoming season.
Overall, while the loss stings, it can serve as a learning experience for the Razorbacks. Building resilience through these challenging moments could provide a foundation for better performance next season.