17. Arkansas (7-2)
When pressed this season, Arkansas hasn’t yet had the answers, losing against Duke and Michigan State in their two big tests of the early campaign. The Razorbacks have had a few questionable moments outside of those contests, but John Calipari still put together a potent roster that we expected great things from this season. This week showed more of that potential.
First came the ACC/SEC Challenge, as Arkansas got a great 89-80 win over a Louisville team sitting in the Top 10. Trevon Brazile led with 21 points, Darius Acuff Jr. had 17 points and 10 assists, and the Razorbacks finally came alive against a strong foe. This team wasn’t caught sleeping on Saturday, outlasting Fresno State for a solid 82-58 victory to cap off the week. Acuff starred again with 18 points and 8 assists as Arkansas had perhaps their finest defensive game of the young season.
Some attention comes back to Calipari’s group after outworking Louisville, even if the game was at home. Arkansas proved that they can hang with great teams and has looked much better offensively for the most part in recent weeks. Another major test is right around the corner as the Razorbacks matchup against Texas Tech this upcoming weekend desperate for another prominent win.