Arkansas’ schedule ranked sixth toughest in FBS

The most impressive thing about Sam Pittman’s tenure at Arkansas over his three seasons has been his ability to keep the Razorbacks always in position to win.

No matter whether it’s been Alabama, Auburn, Texas A&M, whoever. Arkansas has either beaten or had a more-than-decent shot at beating every team they’ve played at some point over those three years. And that’s playing in the ridiculously difficult SEC.

So it’s no surprise heading into 2023 that Arkansas’ schedule is expected to be bonkers again. In fact, according to ESPN’s Football Power Index, Arkansas’ schedule is the sixth toughest in the nation.

Three of the teams with more difficult slates play in the SEC in Ole Miss (toughest), Florida (third) and Auburn (fifth). Minnesota (second) and Maryland (fourth) have the toughest roads to hoe in the Big Ten.

Let’s take another look at just how the Hogs find themselves in such company this fall.

Western Carolina – September 2

LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS – OCTOBER 23: Dominique Johnson #20 of the Arkansas Razorbacks runs the ball in the first half of a game against the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff Golden Lions at War Memorial Stadium on October 23, 2021 in Little Rock, Arkansas. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

The Catamounts have zero to do with the difficulty. In fact, Arkansas’ playing of an FCS team is probably keeping the Razorbacks from ranking higher, er, more difficult.

Kent State – September 9

Nov 5, 2022; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jefferson (1) passes in the second quarter against the Liberty Flames at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Kent State is OK. For a Mid-American Conference team. But, again, the Golden Flashes are dragging the strength-of-schedule down. Note: that isn’t a bad thing when you play in the SEC. Rack up those wins.

Brigham…