Arkansas Football: Is Connor Noland the answer to the Hogs quarterback issues?
Finding the right answer to the problem that is the Arkansas football quarterback situation starts with the most recent recruiting class and Connor Noland.
Arkansas football enters spring practice with more questions to answer than just about any other program in the SEC. Following Bret Bielema’s final season in Fayetteville, the Razorbacks were not expecting to have improve from a four-win year. However, a lack of consistency on offense and tons of defensive woes doomed any hopes the Hogs had at a bowl game.
Putting it all back together falls on the shoulders of first-year head coach Chad Morris, who is more known for his offensive prowess. Morris does have the tall task of piecing back together a broken defense.
Another issue for the Hogs last season was injury issues at quarterback. Senior Austin Allen was the presumed starter entering the season, but injuries gave way to freshman Cole Kelley. Moreover, Kelley is the anticipated starter for the 2018 season, entering as a rising sophomore.
There is one other option for Morris coming to town this fall. Four-star pro-style quarterback Connor Noland is one of the highest-rated recruits in the 2018 class for Arkansas. Noland does have the ability to challenge Kelley for some playing.
Since Morris got to see Noland some on the recruiting trail, and not Kelley, that could give the incoming freshman a leg up. The toughness Kelley showed in the playing time he got last season should earn him the starting nod at the beginning of the upcoming slate.
The 2018 schedule starts out somewhat slow, with three easy non-conference matchups. Teams like the Eastern Illinois Panthers (FCS), Colorado State Rams and North Texas Mean Green should be easier victories for the Hogs.
However, the 2018 slate does ramp up very quickly, when the SEC slate kicks off in the fourth contest of the season. Arkansas faces the Auburn Tigers, Texas A&M Aggies, defending National Champions Alabama Crimson Tide, and Ole Miss Rebels in four consecutive weeks.
If Kelley does not get off to a strong start to the 2018 season, Noland will be waiting in the wings for his opportunity in the spotlight. Noland has the potential to be a very solid starting quarterback in the SEC, and take Arkansas back to a competitive level in conference play.
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A new look offense that should have more rhythm in 2018 will also help both quarterbacks post solid stat lines. Revamping the ground game can also help support two young quarterbacks. Most of all, Noland is getting the exposure to a new culture for the Arkansas football program, and is the next in line to improve this team.