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SEC Power Rankings: No quarterback, no problem for Alabama?

By Hunter Kinniburgh

Sep 19, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) breaks a tackle by Auburn Tigers defensive back Jonathan Jones (3) during the second quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) breaks a tackle by Auburn Tigers defensive back Jonathan Jones (3) during the second quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 20, 2014; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Brandon Allen (10, center) calls a play as offensive tackle Dan Skipper (74) tight end Henry Hunter (84) tightened A.J. Derby (11) and other players look on during the first half of a game against Northern Illinois Huskies at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Beth Hall-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 20, 2014; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Brandon Allen (10, center) calls a play as offensive tackle Dan Skipper (74) tight end Henry Hunter (84) tightened A.J. Derby (11) and other players look on during the first half of a game against Northern Illinois Huskies at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Beth Hall-USA TODAY Sports /
  • 2015 Record: 8-5, 5-3 (SEC)
  • Season Opener: Sept. 3  vs. Louisiana Tech

Arkansas had their best year yet under Bret Bielema in 2015. The offense was balanced and the defense was tough. While Arkansas did start the season 1-3, they gained momentum to close out the year by winning seven of their last nine games, including an overtime thriller against Ole Miss which knocked the Rebels out of winning the SEC West. Arkansas finished the 2015 season with a win against Kansas State in the Liberty Bowl.

2016 will be a season of new faces for the Razorbacks. Gone are stalwart leaders such as Brandon Allen and Alex Henry on the offense. Allen’s younger brother, Austin, was named the starter back in spring and he will look to pick up where his brother left off. Arkansas has weapons at receiver and as always, a monstrous offensive line to protect the new quarterback and pave the way for the ground game to get going.

The most underrated component of the 2016 Razorbacks has to be the defense. The defensive squad returns nine starters and has many great players all throughout such as Brooks Ellis at linebacker, defensive tackle Jeremiah Ledbetter and Deatrich Wise at defensive end. While the offense may take some time to find its legs, the defense can surly carry the team if needed.

Arkansas probably won’t be a player for the SEC West title in 2016 but Bielema is building a solid program in Fayetteville that will continue to be relevant in the SEC in the coming years.

Next: No. 7 Texas A&M Aggies

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