Arkansas became bowl eligible for the fourth time in five years with a 35-14 victory over Louisiana Tech on senior night in Fayetteville.
Game Summary
The game began with sloppy play from both teams. The Razorbacks returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown, but a holding penalty brought the play back, forcing them to start on their own 5-yard line. Both teams punted on their first drives, and Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green threw an interception deep in Razorbacks territory on the second drive. However, Louisiana Tech missed a 43-yard field goal, failing to capitalize. Despite two first-half turnovers, Arkansas’ defense held strong, shutting out the Bulldogs and leading 14-0 at halftime.
The second half saw both teams find offensive rhythm. Arkansas extended its lead with a 27-yard touchdown pass from Green to Isaac TeSlaa in the third quarter. Louisiana Tech managed two touchdowns, but Arkansas responded with three of its own, cruising to a 35-14 victory in the final home game of the season.
A Win Is a Win
While Arkansas secured the win, it was not a flawless performance. The Razorbacks, previously winless when losing the turnover battle, overcame a 3-1 turnover deficit to Louisiana Tech. Special teams struggled, with the Bulldogs converting a fourth down on a 26-yard scramble by punter Patrick Rea and recovering a fumbled punt return that set up their first touchdown. Two of the three top Louisiana Tech rushers included punters Rea and Buck Buchanan. Despite the miscues, the Razorbacks secured the win and celebrated becoming bowl eligible, bringing out “Larry” the bowling ball to mark the occasion.
Who Stood Out
Taylen Green overcame a slow start to complete 20 of 37 passes for 221 yards and two touchdowns while adding two rushing touchdowns and 61 yards on six carries, including a 41-yard scoring run.
Andrew Armstrong led the receiving corps with eight receptions for 81 yards, surpassing 1,000 receiving yards on the season to become the fifth Razorback to achieve the milestone.
The Razorbacks’ defense was the key to victory, holding Louisiana Tech to just 229 total yards, including only 39 rushing yards. The defense recorded six tackles for loss, three sacks, and five passes defended, keeping the Bulldogs uncomfortable throughout the game.
Looking Ahead for Arkansas
Arkansas will conclude its regular season on Nov. 30 in Columbia, Missouri, facing No. 23 Missouri in the Battle Line Rivalry. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. CST on SEC Network.
Discover more from Inside Arkansas
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.