Arkansas football's 10th straight loss ends season against Missouri

Arkansas Football Season Ends with 10th Consecutive Loss

FAYETTEVILLE — The Arkansas football season came to a disappointing end with another loss, marking the 10th consecutive defeat for the Razorbacks. In their final game of the year on Saturday, Nov. 29, the team fell to Missouri with a score of 31-17. This loss not only extended their losing streak but also resulted in their fourth winless SEC campaign in program history.

The game saw a strategic quarterback rotation from head coach Bobby Petrino, with KJ Jackson and Taylen Green alternating under center. Jackson started both halves, while Green took over the remaining snaps. Despite this change, the offense struggled to find consistency, especially in the second half.

Missouri's Dominance on the Ground

The Missouri defense proved to be a challenge for the Razorbacks, particularly when it came to stopping the Tigers' running game. Missouri managed to accumulate 322 yards on 58 carries, led by Ahamad Hardy, who recorded 157 yards. Beau Pribula, the Missouri quarterback, attempted only seven passes throughout the game, highlighting the team’s reliance on the run.

Arkansas showed some promise in the first half, leading 17-14 at halftime. The Hogs opened the game with a 16-yard touchdown pass from Jackson to O’Mega Blake, followed by a 32-yard fumble return by linebacker Brad Shaw. However, the offensive struggles continued in the second half, as the Razorbacks managed just 73 total yards and were held without a score in the final two quarters.

Key Moments from the Game

In the first quarter, Arkansas started strong with a touchdown from KJ Jackson to O'Mega Blake. However, Missouri quickly responded with a 4-yard touchdown run from Jamal Roberts. The Hogs maintained momentum, with Shaw scoring a touchdown on a fumble recovery. By halftime, Arkansas was ahead 17-14.

The second half was more challenging for the Razorbacks. Missouri's Ahmad Hardy scored a 53-yard rushing touchdown, and Kevin Coleman Jr. returned a punt 67 yards for another score. These plays gave Missouri a two-possession lead late in the game, which they would not relinquish.

Fourth Quarter Highlights

The fourth quarter saw Missouri take control of the game. After a successful two-point conversion, the Tigers led 31-17 with 8:07 remaining. Arkansas continued to rotate quarterbacks, but neither Jackson nor Green could gain traction. Missouri added a 41-yard field goal after an unsportsmanlike penalty, extending their lead to 23-17.

Second Half Struggles

In the third quarter, Arkansas missed a 42-yard field goal due to a bad snap. Missouri capitalized on this mistake with a 53-yard touchdown run by Hardy. Although the extra point failed, the Tigers took a 20-17 lead. The Razorbacks' offense continued to struggle, failing to score in the final two periods.

First Half Breakdown

The first half saw both teams trading touchdowns. Missouri opened with a 4-yard run from Roberts, but Arkansas answered with a 16-yard pass from Jackson to Blake. Shaw's fumble return put the Hogs ahead 14-7 early in the second quarter. Missouri then tied the game with an 11-yard run from Pribula.

Pregame Notes

Before the game, Arkansas chose to defer to the second half, allowing Missouri to start with the ball. KJ Jackson was expected to start at quarterback, with Taylen Green as his backup. The game was played at Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville on Saturday, Nov. 29, at 2:30 p.m. CT.

How to Watch

The game was broadcast on the SEC Network and could be streamed via Fubo or ESPN+. Fans looking for live updates had access to online streaming options through these platforms.

Injury Reports

Arkansas faced several injuries heading into the game, with multiple players listed as out or questionable. Missouri also dealt with its own set of injuries, including key players like DaMarion Fowlkes and Sam Horn.

Jackson Fuller, a reporter for the Southwest Times Record, provided insights into the game, noting that Missouri’s offense would need to find rhythm to secure a win. He predicted a final score of Missouri 38, Arkansas 31. Another analyst, Calum McAndrew, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of stopping Ahmad Hardy, who was expected to have a big game.

As the season comes to a close, the Razorbacks will look to regroup and prepare for next year, hoping to break their losing streak and improve their performance in the SEC.