Here’s how we rated Arkansas football in its Liberty Bowl win over Texas Tech

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Arkansas football gave fans a glimpse of the future and the sweet taste of victory in the 2024 Liberty Bowl.

The Razorbacks (7-6) dominated the first quarter and found their rhythm again in the second half with a 38-26 win over Texas Tech to close out the season. The Hogs led 21-3 after one period, but the lead was just five points at halftime.

Arkansas entered the game with more than 20 players in the transfer portal and a handful of others opted out to focus on the NFL Draft. Still, the Hogs never trailed and received an explosive performance from quarterback Taylen Green, who threw for 341 yards and ran for 75 yards.

Here are our grades from the Razorbacks’ win over Texas Tech.

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Offense: A

Despite all the missing players, Arkansas had no problems making explosive plays. The Hogs passed for 560 yards and found a new weapon in Dazmin James, who had three catches for 137 yards and a touchdown.

Defense: B

From the opening whistle, Texas Tech had success against the Hogs’ defense, but the Red Raiders struggled to capitalize on their chances in the first quarter and Arkansas tied it after halftime. Linebacker Xavian Sorey Jr. was great with a game-high 10 tackles and Arkansas got interceptions from Miguel Mitchell and Marquise Robinson.

Special Teams: B+

Matthew Shipley kicked three field goals and Devin Bale was regular and reliable punting the football, with one of his pins resulting in a safety. The only complaint was some shaky kick returns from Rodney Hill.

Coaching: A

After this film there can be no more criticism of Sam Pittman. He had the team ready to play from the first kickoff and both coordinators had good game plans for a comfortable win.

Overall: A-

Seven wins. That was unimaginable for this team in the offseason. There is still a lot to fix in the coming months, but this was a well-deserved evening for the entire program.

This article originally appeared on the Fort Smith Times Record: Arkansas football closes the season with a Liberty Bowl victory over Texas Tech