Tag: Markell Utsey

What new defensive end Landon Jackson could bring to table

Arkansas’ newest defensive end, a transfer from LSU, could bring much-needed pass-rushing ability.

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Arkansas is losing only a maximum of three players from its defensive line – potential transfers notwithstanding – in 2022. But given the two guaranteed losses and the third potential loss, re-making the front of the Razorbacks defense is going to be a priority for coach Sam Pittman and defensive coordinator Barry Odom.

That’s part of why the newest Razorbacks player, former LSU defensive end Landon Jackson, could be such a boon.

Jackson, who is from Texarkana, was a four-star recruit in the Class of 2021. An edge rusher with size, he has the build of Markell Utsey, one of the players the Hogs will lose next season.

Utsey and end Tre Williams will both be gone from the roster in 2022. Defensive tackle John Ridgeway could leave for the NFL, too. That would mean all three primary starters on the Hogs front would be out.

Even if Jackson doesn’t step into a starting role, his potential and youth – he will have three years of eligibility remaining – could pay dividends down the road. The Razorbacks do return ends Zach Williams and Jashaud Stewart, tackles Taurean Carter and Isaiah Nichols and hybrid end/tackle Eric Gregory, among others.

Jackson played in five games with LSU, exclusively on special teams. He was rehabbing a knee injury he suffered in high school for a good chunk of the season.

Mississippi State has best SEC cornerback you’ve never heard of

Arkansas and Mississippi State is going to be close, experts figure. Here are the players to keep an eye on as game-changers.

Before the season began, this game was marked as the most winnable Arkansas had on its SEC schedule this year. After the first month of football, it was thrown almost into lock territory.

That isn’t the case after Mississippi State beat Texas A&M and Kentucky, the same number of Top 25 teams the Razorbacks have beaten. The Bulldogs’ losses have been closer, too, with two of their three being three points or less.

ESPN’s Football Power Index gives Arkansas only a 59.5% chance to win Saturday inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. The Bulldogs are that good.

How? A dynamite, absolutely dynamite defense tops the list. Mississippi State is fourth in FBS in rushing defense. The usual Mike Leach passing attack is still around, too.

Let’s take a peek at which four players, two for Arkansas and two for MSU, could end up making the biggest difference when the teams collide Saturday afternoon.