Sun Sep 15 01:50:11 UTC 2024: ## Arkansas Football Escapes UAB with Run-Heavy Offense
FAYETTEVILLE, AR – Despite a sluggish offensive performance, the Arkansas Razorbacks managed to secure a 37-27 victory over the UAB Blazers Saturday, extending their winning streak to three games. While the passing game struggled, with quarterback Taylen Green completing just 11 of 26 passes for 161 yards and an interception, the Razorbacks’ running game carried them to victory.
Running back Ja’Quinden Jackson emerged as the hero, racking up 147 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries. Jackson’s performance, which included a crucial 16-yard score in the third quarter that gave Arkansas their first lead, proved to be the difference-maker in the game.
“He makes extra yards when he carries the ball,” said Arkansas head coach Sam Pittman. “We’ll block it up some, but he always seems to be making somebody miss or running over somebody. Got really good vision back there.”
Jackson’s performance marked his third consecutive 100-yard rushing game, a feat he couldn’t achieve even once last season while playing injured at Utah. He credited his current health for the improvement, stating, “I’m healthy, and you see the difference when I’m healthy and when I’m not healthy.”
The Razorbacks’ offensive line, despite losing starting center Addison Nichols early in the game, provided solid support for Jackson, allowing the team to rack up 266 rushing yards.
“Their run schemes are—they run them into the soft parts of your defense, they have a lot of different run schemes available to them,” said UAB head coach Trent Dilfer. “Their offensive line does a really good job grasping it.”
While the run game was a bright spot, the Razorbacks’ passing attack remains a concern. However, wide receiver Andrew Armstrong continued his strong play, hauling in eight catches for 137 yards.
Despite the victory, the Razorbacks will face a challenging test next week as they open their SEC schedule against Auburn. The team will need to address their passing game struggles and shore up their defensive performance against short passes and at the line of scrimmage.
“Saturday was a disappointment,” admitted Pittman. “But the offense continues to look much-improved from last season, and Jackson might be the primary factor.”
The Hogs will need to rely on their improved run game and the continued emergence of Jackson as they prepare for the upcoming SEC gauntlet.
First Piper 