22. Arkansas (1-1)
We’re past the surprise of John Calipari in Arkansas as he led the Razorbacks to the Sweet Sixteen last season. His Razorbacks won’t surprise anyone any longer and have the talent to be a real contender in this SEC as a result. A great combination of proven veterans and highly-touted recruits has Arkansas in this great position, but how would they handle their first real tests of the season?
The first game wasn’t a real test, as Arkansas won 109-77 in a no-doubter against Southern on opening night. Trevon Brazile was great with 25 points and 11 rebounds while both 5-star freshmen stood out, with 22 points from Darius Acuff Jr. and 21 out of Meleek Thomas. The Razorbacks come up just short in a stiff test on Saturday, falling 69-66 at Michigan State. Again, Acuff and Thomas were excellent with 16 points apiece but Arkansas just couldn’t get enough offense to upend the Spartans.
The loss is disappointing, but the Razorbacks fought hard in a hostile environment and still proved they belong in these national conversations. While a few players didn’t have their best games this weekend, those two freshmen continue to shine and are going to be a bit part of this attack for Arkansas in what could develop into a special season. Looking forward, the Razorbacks stay home for a few weeks with a string of mid-majors on the schedule.