Liberty Bowl: Arkansas, Texas Tech Navigate Key Player Absences

The Liberty Bowl in Memphis, Tenn., promises an intriguing showdown Friday as Arkansas and Texas Tech clash, each battling significant roster upheaval from the transfer portal and opt-outs.

Arkansas: Seeking a Winning Season Amid Departures

The Razorbacks (6-6) aim to cap their season with a winning record after a tumultuous two weeks. Offensive losses include top contributors Ja’Quinden Jackson (790 rushing yards, 15 touchdowns) and SEC-leading receiver Andrew Armstrong (1,140 yards, 7 TDs), alongside key offensive linemen Addison Nichols, Joshua Braun, and Patrick Kutas. On defense, Arkansas will miss the services of TJ Metcalf and Brad Spence.

Despite these setbacks, the Razorbacks look to quarterback Taylen Green (2,812 passing yards, 13 TDs; 521 rushing yards, 7 TDs) for leadership. With his dual-threat ability, Green will rely heavily on Isaac TeSlaa, who has shown promise with 439 receiving yards this season.

“Going 7-6 with a winning record would be good,” linebacker Stephen Dix said. “The margins were small in our losses, and we want to prove what this team can achieve.”

Texas Tech: Freshman QB in the Spotlight

The Red Raiders (8-4) face their own challenges, with quarterback Behren Morton sidelined after shoulder surgery and leading receiver Josh Kelly (1,023 yards) opting out to prepare for the NFL Draft. Leading rusher Tahj Brooks (1,505 yards, 17 TDs) remains a game-time decision, leaving the offense in a state of flux.

Freshman quarterback Will Hammond, who has completed 15 of 23 passes for 191 yards and one touchdown in limited action, is set to start. Second-leading receiver Caleb Douglas (55 catches, 762 yards, 6 TDs) will play a pivotal role in supporting the young quarterback. If Brooks opts out, freshman running backs J’Koby Williams and Cam Dickey will shoulder the load on the ground.

Key Context and Stakes

Texas Tech boasts wins over CFP quarterfinalist Arizona State and Iowa State, while Arkansas’ signature victory came against Tennessee, a CFP contender. Arkansas holds a 29-8 historical edge in the series, but the Red Raiders claimed the last meeting in 2015.

Both teams view the Liberty Bowl as a chance to end their seasons on a high note. For Arkansas, a winning record would symbolize resilience amid roster challenges. Texas Tech seeks to demonstrate the depth and adaptability that powered their 8-4 campaign.

Kickoff in Memphis promises an exciting conclusion to two seasons shaped by transition and opportunity.