Eric Boggs 
Arkansas upset SEC rival Tennessee 19-14 Saturday, October 6, 2024.
After two seasons of disappointing late-game performances, Arkansas football broke through with a defining victory on Saturday night, defeating No. 4 Tennessee 19-14 at home. The win marked the Razorbacks’ (4-2, 2-1 SEC) first over a top-five opponent since 2007, and their first home victory over such a team since 1999.
Arkansas overcame a 14-3 third-quarter deficit, with backup quarterback Malachi Singleton stepping up after Taylen Green’s injury in the fourth quarter. Singleton’s 11-yard touchdown run with 1:17 left secured the win, capping off a 16-point comeback. Arkansas’ defense, the unsung hero, stifled Tennessee’s high-powered offense, which entered the game leading the nation in scoring. Tennessee (4-1, 1-1 SEC) managed just 332 total yards, well below their season average.
Tennessee Struggles and Injuries Mount
Tennessee’s offense, led by freshman quarterback Nico Iamaleava, faltered despite two third-quarter touchdowns by Dylan Sampson. Iamaleava, who finished 16-for-28 with 156 yards, couldn’t deliver in the final moments, as Arkansas’ defense held strong, forcing a turnover on downs to seal the game. Injuries compounded the Volunteers’ struggles, with key players like Dont’e Thornton, Bru McCoy, Christian Harrison, Bryson Eason, and Squirrel White all exiting in the second half.
Despite their defensive resilience — stopping Arkansas on multiple fourth downs — Tennessee’s inability to maintain offensive momentum proved costly. Sampson’s 140 rushing yards and two scores were bright spots, but Iamaleava’s inconsistent play raised concerns, especially with a critical home stretch looming.
Arkansas’ Grit and Defensive Prowess
For Arkansas, the story was defense and time management. The Razorbacks controlled the clock, possessing the ball for over 20 minutes in the first half alone, exhausting Tennessee’s defense. The Volunteers struggled to adjust, and outside of a brief scoring surge in the third quarter, were unable to generate sustained drives.
Arkansas head coach Sam Pittman praised his team’s preparation and resolve, stating, “Our kids and coaches believed we could win tonight. This win shows that we can compete with anyone when we take care of the football.” The victory snapped an 18-game losing streak against AP top-five teams, giving the Razorbacks momentum as they head into a bye week before facing No. 13 LSU.
The Road Ahead
Tennessee, now reeling from its first loss of the season, will need to regroup quickly. They return to Neyland Stadium next Saturday to face the Florida Gators, hoping to work out the offensive issues that plagued them against Arkansas. Injuries will be a major concern moving forward, especially as they navigate a tough SEC schedule.
Arkansas, buoyed by their biggest win under Pittman, heads into their bye week with confidence, having matched last season’s win total. They will look to build on this victory when they host LSU on October 19.
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