Arkansas Lands at No. 23 in College Football News Preseason Rankings
It’s almost August, signaling a tide in the preseason rankings until game day.
Preseason rankings should be kept in context, not in the literal sense of picking the champion. It’s the poll positions at the opening gate.
Some rankings can be unnecessary and pointless, but the more reputable platforms that release rankings give fans clarity about the season ahead. For example, college Football News released their annual 131 team Preseason rankings.
Arkansas landed at No. 23, increasing their stock as a team to watch in the SEC.
The Top 25 ranking puts the Razorbacks two slots below their postseason No. 21 AP ranking. College Football News also predicted the Razorback would land at No. 16, which would be the highest preseason ranking since 2010 (ranked No. 10).
It is in contrast to some of the other preseason ranking participants. Legendary sports writer Phil Steele ranked the Razorbacks No. 38 in his top 40 preseason rankings. 247 Sports also left the Razorbacks outside of the Top 25.
A Top 25 preseason ranking is not far-fetched for Arkansas. They’re returning 11 starters unit that won nine games last season. Big wins against Texas and Texas A&M and a 7-point road loss to Arkansas give this team good experience for big game situations this upcoming season.
KJ Jefferson has the potential to have one of the best offensive seasons this year, with four returning starters from the offensive lineman protecting him. The ground game is also expecting to flourish with Ricky Stromberg anchoring the offensive line.
And once again, preseason rankings are only for entertainment.
