The Arkansas Razorbacks fell just short of a third straight victory inside Jordan-Hare Stadium on Saturday, dropping a 26-23 decision to the Auburn Tigers.
Arkansas built an early 10-0 lead but could not put enough distance between themselves and Auburn before the Tigers pulled ahead for good with 33 seconds remaining, according to a report from si.com. The 3-6 Razorbacks, now 1-5 in SEC play, return to Fayetteville to face South Carolina for the first time since 2022.
The Razorbacks’ offense struggled under first-year offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey against the Auburn defense, failing to capitalize after holding the Tigers to just three points in the first half, si.com reported. Quarterback KJ Jackson completed 14-of-30 passes for 180 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Jackson struggled all afternoon with reads and forced throws into contested windows.
Those passing struggles have sparked fan discussions about whether the team should consider making a change at quarterback. A potential alternative involves giving Memphis transfer AJ Hill a chance to make his case for the starting job.
Arkansas’ defense did all they could to give the team a chance to win, but the offense failed to sustain drives. That lack of production forced the defenders to stay on the field longer than planned until they were completely gassed.
Khmori House led Arkansas with nine tackles, including two tackles for loss. The Razorbacks finished the afternoon with eight tackles for loss as a team, though Auburn quarterback Byrum Brown eventually found ways to exploit his mobility against the pressure.
Kicker Max Gilbert missed attempts from 51 and 53 yards out. Those misses left Arkansas without points on two possessions in a contest ultimately decided by three points, si.com noted.
Gilbert’s primary struggles this season have emerged from 50 yards and beyond, where he is currently 1-for-7. He previously connected from 55 yards against his former team, Tennessee, on Oct. 10.
The Razorbacks now must hit the reset button to prepare for the South Carolina Gamecocks next Saturday night in Fayetteville. The matchup also brings Kendal Briles back to Fayetteville after he directed the Razorbacks’ offense from 2020 through 2022 before leaving for TCU.
Earlier coverage: Auburn beats Arkansas 26-23 at Jordan-Hare Stadium
