Even though the voters left Arkansas star quarterback KJ Jefferson off the ALL-SEC team list, the sky is still the limit.
Jefferson’s best games last season came in losses. Against Alabama, he posted a 73% completion rating on the road, followed by six total touchdowns in the shootout against Mississippi State later in the season.
His touchdown totals could play a part in why he was excluded from any All-SEC team, but Jefferson is determined to use that as fuel for the grueling season ahead.
“It’s pretty normal now. I’ve been doubted my whole life,” Jefferson told KATV. “Having that motivation going into the season always gives you an edge.”
A brutal schedule makes the road to the Heisman more challenging for Jefferson, but it is also beneficial. The early season four-game stretch offers Jefferson an opportunity to show voters he is one to watch for the rest of the season. Winning the Heisman is about exposure and the first game of the season against Cincinnati gives Jefferson that chance.
Like other Heisman winners, the supporting cast is essential. Jefferson lost his core receiver group last season, which Treylon Burks led. Burks was the only receiver who caught more than 50 passes and 800 yards.
The remaining cast of players like Trey Knox and Jadon Haselwood are pivotal in Jefferson’s run to a Heisman trophy but, most importantly, offensive coordinator Kendal Briles.
“He has played a tremendous role, being able to instill the confidence in me in being able to run his offense,” Jefferson said about the Razorback’s play caller. The Razorbacks’ offense is run-centric, the reason why four players rushed for over 500 yards in 2021. Jefferson led the team in rushing with 664 yards and six touchdowns.
For Jefferson to be in the program’s first Heisman, Briles must open the playbook. Jefferson has the tools and stature comparable to Cam Newton, standing at 6’3 and weighing 245 pounds, but he needs opportunities to accumulate more yards and score more touchdowns.