Arkansas report card | Grading the Hogs after tight Auburn loss

Arkansas football fell short in a tight 26-23 defeat against Auburn on Saturday, Nov. 7 at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Alex McPherson's game-winning 43-yard field goal in the final minute sealed the Razorbacks' first loss in their last three road games against the Tigers, who had previously defeated Arkansas 5-4 in the previous matchup. This marked Arkansas' ninth consecutive loss in a one-score game, reflecting a missed opportunity.

The offense received a C- grade, as the running game showed moments of brilliance with Sutton Smith and Cam Settles, totaling 172 yards on 44 rushes. However, Arkansas struggled with efficiency inside Auburn's territory, relying heavily on field goals. Quarterback KJ Jackson completed 14 of 30 passes for 188 yards, but the team's inability to convert inside territory proved costly.

Defensively, the Hogs earned a B- grade. They held Auburn's quarterback, Byrum Brown, under control for three quarters until he broke free in the final moments. Arkansas allowed 3 points in the first half and 23 in the second. Strong starts to games often don't make memories when teams fade away like the Razorbacks did in this tight contest.

Special teams received a D grade, with Max Gilbert making three kicks but missing two field goals over 50 yards. Jesse Ehrlich's 29-yard punt only added to the disappointment. Arkansas' long field goal attempts need reconsideration.

Coaching grades were B- for effective defensive strategies in limiting Brown, and Silverfield's solid management of the clock. However, the offensive play-calling occasionally frustrated fans as Arkansas stubbornly relied on a passing game with limited success.

Overall, Arkansas earned a C+ grade for a game they could have won but ultimately lost. The Hogs will reflect on this as a missed opportunity in a season already marked by struggles.