Jefferson Must Be Allowed To Do Jefferson Things

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — KJ Jefferson is the guy for the Razorbacks and now is the time to use him properly. The third year starting quarterback has seen it all during his Razorback career is critical to the success the offense as we often saw in 2022.

Sure, the Hogs have left more to be desired, especially in week two against Kent State. The stagnant run game has impacted the offense in a way was too similar to the recent past.

Jefferson needs to be an integral piece to the running game if Arkansas plans on taking the next step as a threatening offense.

No one wants to see the Arkansas superstar injured in a meaningless game. However, the Hogs needed the legs of their QB to open up running lanes during the third quarter to pull away from Kent State.

Starting with BYU, fans will find out a lot about how far the Hogs offense is away from being a threat to SEC and FBS defenses. Will Jefferson have to be the focal point offensively?

That may be the case but how much? The number needs to be 80-percent for now. He’s a fifth year senior with plenty of experience and a track record of elite efficiency. He should be trusted to run this offense inside out.

Allowing the Sardis, (Miss.) native to make plays and do Jefferson things will be what makes Arkansas take the next step. Turning Jefferson into more of a pro-style isn’t helpful, hindering the true production this offense is capable of. Giving him full control him gives him the opportunity to succeed at what he is good at and that’s being a gamer.

He’s currently an efficient 31-42 passing for 382 yards, 5 TD and no interceptions through two weeks. The lack of using his legs has been a different look so far but needs to be increased if Arkansas wants to threaten for the SEC West. Jefferson has only 18 carries for just 59 yards and 1 TD.

Jefferson has two receivers he can trust and a running game that’s proven to be a top-10 unit.  Whatever the Hogs started doing in the second drive of the third quarter worked and must continue moving forward.

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