MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Arkansas capped off their season in spectacular fashion, defeating Texas Tech 39-26 in a high-energy, back-and-forth AutoZone Liberty Bowl. The Razorbacks secured their third winning season under head coach Sam Pittman, finishing with a 7-6 record.
“If we can’t enjoy that one, we’ve got major problems,” Pittman declared after the victory. “We played extremely hard and won the game. We’re a new team now.”
The Razorbacks came out firing on all cylinders, landing a quick 1-2-3 punch with three touchdowns on their first three drives. Quarterback Taylen Green was a force, totaling 422 yards—341 passing and 81 rushing—while leading Arkansas with ruthless efficiency.
“Hats off to Arkansas,” said Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire. “They played an excellent game, and their quarterback was fantastic. It was a tough loss for us.”
It was a thrilling mix of fresh talent and veteran leadership that fueled Arkansas’ explosive start. Running back Rodney Hill, recently promoted to RB1, broke out with a 70-yard run on just his second carry, setting up a touchdown on the very next play.
The Razorbacks’ receiving corps also made waves, with redshirt freshman Dazmin James recording a jaw-dropping 94-yard touchdown, setting a new school record for the longest passing touchdown, while veteran Isaac TeSlaa added a 56-yard reception, helping the Hogs dominate the Red Raiders’ defense.
Despite a Texas Tech comeback in the second quarter, Arkansas remained in control, with their defense stepping up in the second half. Arkansas picked off freshman quarterback Will Hammond twice, holding the Red Raiders to just one more touchdown in garbage time.
With a dazzling 11 plays of 15+ yards and a strong finish, Arkansas heads into the offseason with momentum, focusing on the transfer portal as they prepare for 2025.
