Legendary - The Career of Porter Davis

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All 126 Coaching Staffs Finalized
Former Ole Miss head coach Hugh Freeze lands at Texas
By Connor Reese | Jan 8, 2019, 9:42pm EST

School	Head Coach	Yrs @ School	Rec @ School	Career Record	OC	DC
Air Force	Warren, Charlton	13	29-12	29-12	Leach, Mike	Lynch, Chris
Akron	Fisher, Jimbo	1	6-6	70-46	Price, Eric	Shoop, Bob
Alabama	Fickell, Luke	0	0-0	41-36	Skrosky, Rick	Willis, James
Arizona	Rodriguez, Rich	7	56-36	182-124	Taylor, Daniel	Casteel, Jeff
Arizona State	Graham, Todd	7	48-40	97-69	Norvell, Mike	Douglas, Scott
Arkansas	Davis, Porter	1	12-2	49-6	Arroyo, Marcus	Lovings, Marquase
Arkansas State	Prince, Robert	1	7-5	13-11	Cameron, Cam	Niemann, Jay
Army	Ellerson, Rich	10	71-55	131-96	Wells, Walt	Heater, Chuck
Auburn	Hughes, Hank	2	16-10	16-10	Lashlee, Rhett	Shafer, Scott
BYU	Schramm, Dave	4	33-20	40-26	MacIntyre, Mike	Kaufusi, Steve
Ball State	Nussmeier, Doug	5	29-33	29-33	Chaney, Jim	Davidson, Marcus
Baylor	Anderson, Jarrett	0	0-0	23-28	Levine, Tony	Bennett, Phil
Boise State	Petersen, Chris	13	140-132	140-32	Brown, Kevin	Bailiff, David
Boston College	Frost, Scott	1	5-7	5-7	Enos, Dan	Lewis, Osia
Bowling Green	Turner, Ron	3	17-20	77-101	Scott, Brian	Durkin, D.J.
Buffalo	McCall, Kevin	1	2-10	2-10	Brown, Neal	Gibbs, David
Cal	Mendenhall, Bronco	0	0-0	84-43	Lobotzke, Steed	Fleming, Jim
Central Michigan	Pelini, Carl	5	31-32	42-47	Rudolph, Joe	Aranda, Dave
Cincinnati	Herman, Tom	4	32-21	32-21	Gran, Eddie	Trumpkin, Joe
Clemson	Swinney, Dabo	11	93-47	93-47	Malzahn, Gus	Venables, Brent
Colorado	Powers, Josh	0	0-0	0-0	Schroeder, Matt	Lewis, Matt
Colorado State	Muschamp, Will	0	0-0	68-35	Donovan, John	Huxtable, Dave
Connecticut	Ludwig, Andy	0	0-0	0-0	Henry, Carl	Spencer, Glenn
Duke	Albin, Tim	1	3-9	3-9	Ryan, Kevin	Holt, Nick
East Carolina	Aliotti, Nick	1	6-6	6-6	Yurcich, Mike	Stewart, Brian
Eastern Michigan	Riley, Mike	2	13-13	122-103	Monken, Todd	Houston, Chad
Florida International	Anderson, Gary	2	14-11	70-66	Canada, Matt	Mallory, Doug
Florida	Strong, Charlie	0	0-0	53-37	Pease, Brent	House, Matt
Florida Atlantic	Bedford, Vance	5	36-30	36-30	Wright, Brian	Cohen, Dave
Florida State	Steckel, Dave	1	9-4	18-9	Stockstill, Rick	Pruitt, Jeremy
Fresno State	Deruyter, Tim	7	50-39	51-39	Addazio, Steve	Mason, Derek
Georgia	Richt, Mark	18	163-74	163-74	Bobo, Mike	Grantham, Todd
Georgia State	Jones, Butch	2	11-13	81-70	Rolovich, Nick	Adams, Jeff
Georgia Tech	Johnson, Paul	11	104-42	212-81	O'Brien, Bill	D'Onofrio, Mark
Hawaii	Bateman, Jay	5	30-32	30-32	McDonald, George	Peterson, Jay
Houston	Magee, Calvin	0	0-0	0-0	Bush, Travis	Randolph, Paul
Idaho	Montgomery, Philip	1	3-9	3-9	Farmer, Steve	Guy, brent
Illinois	Berry, Charlie	1	4-8	4-8	Jagodzinski, Jeff	Mills, Jeff
Indiana	Berry, Todd	1	5-7	88-112	Littrell, Seth	Parker, Phil
Iowa	Ferentz, Kirk	20	143-109	155-130	Davis, Greg	Pinkham, Ed
Iowa State	Kwiatkowski, Pete	2	8-17	8-17	Messingham, Courtney	Banker, Mark
Kansas	Applewhite, Major	5	28-35	28-35	Grunhard, Tim	Chavis, John
Kansas State	Dimel, Dana	10	28-11	58-50	Cole, Bob	McNeil, Ruffin
Kent State	Brown, Ricky	0	0-0	0-0	Montgomery, Scottie	Patterson, Keith
Kentucky	Anae, Robert	0	0-0	7-6	Schultz, Mike	Eliot, D.J.
LSU	Bolt, Wayne	0	0-0	24-15	Harsin, Bryan	Breske, Mike
Louisiana	Wilson, Kevin	1	12-2	61-43	Loeffler, Scot	Doeren, Dave
Louisiana Tech	Peterson, Tony	6	9-15	9-15	Luke, Joe	Dameron, Kim
Louisville	Johnson, Reggie	2	12-14	12-14	Christensen, Dave	Rhoads, Paul
Marshall	Holliday, Doc	9	53-58	53-58	Legg, Bill	Burrow. Jimmy
Maryland	Hendrix, Clay	2	9-15	15-22	Bloomgren, Mike	Hazelton, Scottie
Memphis	Bajakian, Mike	0	0-0	0-0	Faulkner, Buster	Chryst, Paul
Miami	Golden, Al	8	61-40	88-74	Coley, James	Hoke, Brady
Miami Ohio	Thompson, Bubba	1	0-0	0-0	Treadwell, Don	Elko, Mike
Michigan	Morris, Chad	1	7-6	17-10	Borges, Al	Anderson, Tony
Michigan State	Dantonio, Mark	12	100-57	118-74	Bollman, Jim	Flood, Kyle
Middle Tennessee State	Ellis, Steve	8	21-27	21-27	Blankenship, Bill	Austin, Stephen
Minnesota	Bonds, Tim	0	0-0	7-18	Harris, Kelvin	Jones, Jason
Mississippi State	Millen, Dan	10	72-56	72-56	Koenning, Les	Collins, Geoff
Missouri	Calhoun, Troy	3	33-7	105-53	Cumbie, Sonny	Beckman, Tim
NC State	Roof, Ted	1	4-8	10-53	Mitchell, Kyle	Hauck, Tim
Navy	Niumatalolo, Ken	12	86-58	86-58	Jasper, Ivin	Green, Buddy
Nebraska	Pelini, Bo	12	100-50	100-50	Beck, Tim	Matukewicz, Tom
Nevada	McGee, Garrick	3	19-18	38-47	Shankweiler, Steve	Mason, Tom
New Mexico	Davie, Bob	7	35-52	70-77	Baldwin, Dave	Odom, Barry
New Mexico State	Martin, Doug	6	26-46	55-99	Wood, Alex	Richardson, Rob
North Carolina	Cook, Bryan	1	5-7	5-7	McCall, Mike	English, Marty
North Texas	Taaffe, Charlie	1	3-9	3-9	Owens, Richard	Walter, Stephen
Northern Illinois	Kill, Jerry	1	6-7	164-136	Brandon, Gregg	Kaumeyer, Thom
Northwestern	Fitzgerald, Pat	13	91-76	91-76	Fleck, P.J.	Banks, Tim
Notre Dame	Kelly, Brian	9	88-30	259-87	Quinn, Jeff	Kaufman, Art
Ohio	Toth, Nick	4	24-25	24-25	Ayeni, Louis	London, Mike
Ohio State	Meyer, Urban	7	84-10	188-33	Miles, Les	Pendergast, Clancy
Oklahoma	Stoops, Bob	20	202-62	202-62	Heupel, Josh	Stoops, Mike
Oklahoma State	Luke, Matt	2	9-15	22-28	Tremblay, Dustin	Buh, Andy
Old Dominion	Brohm, Jeff	0	0-0	0-0	Miles, Trent	Weber, Dave
Ole Miss	Martin, Chuck	0	0-0	0-0	Riley, Lincoln	Rekstis, Pete
Oregon	Helfrich, Mark	8	57-24	57-24	Kiesau, Eric	Hauck, Bobby
Oregon State	Shields, Ian	2	14-13	14-13	Langsdorf, Danny	Haynes, Paul
Penn State	Rhule, Matt	1	11-3	48-30	Watson, Shawn	Tormey, Chris
Pitt	Edsall, Randy	0	0-0	109-121	Canales, Mike	Robinson, Paul
Purdue	Clawson, Dave	3	14-23	118-115	Debesse, Bob	Washington, Lionel
Rice	Knorr, Brian	1	7-6	7-6	Anderson, Blake	Bullough, Chuck
Rutgers	Caragher, Ron	2	12-13	40-37	Klacik, John	Claeys, Tracy
Southern Methodist	Helton, Clay	2	11-14	11-14	Higgins, Patrick	Jancek, John
San Diego State	Long, Rocky	8	63-43	128-112	Ruggiero, Warren	English, Ron
San Jose State	Snow, Phil	2	10-15	16-21	Dougherty, Jimmie	Thompson, Kenwick
South Alabama	Jones, Joey	10	55-57	58-64	Price, Aaron	Sherrer, Kevin
South Carolina	Hudspeth, Mark	5	42-24	136-56	Elliott, Shawn	Ward, Lorenzo
Southern Miss	Henson, Josh	0	0-0	0-0	Locksley, Mike	Brown, Don
Stanford	Hixon, Stan	1	5-7	13-12	Tuberville, Tommy	Fedora, Larry
Syracuse	Reagan, John	1	6-7	6-7	Parker, Bill	Duggan, David
TCU	Patterson, Gary	19	175-56	175-56	Sarkisian, Steve	Thompson, John
Temple	Holgorsen, Dana	3	15-21	52-47	Satterfield, Marcus	Thurmond, Chris
Tennessee	Wells, Matt	2	16-10	42-34	Dykes, Sonny	Spanos, Lou
Texas	Brown, Mack	21	213-59	293-130	Freeze, Hugh	Whittingham, Kyle
Texas A&M	Sumlin, Kevin	7	65-26	100-43	McKinney, Clarence	Snyder, Mark
Texas State	McElwain, Jim	0	0-0	31-54	Bowden, Terry	Baer, Kent
Texas Tech	Kingsbury, Kliff	6	41-34	41-34	Jones, June	Smith, Mike
Toledo	Campbell, Matt	8	46-46	46-46	Harding, Jim	Orlando, Todd
Troy	Edenfield, Kenny	0	0-0	2-10	Kugler, Sean	McDougal, Joe
Tulane	Johnson, Curtis	7	27-57	27-57	Hamdan, Bush	Neathery, Neal
Tulsa	Mazzone, Noel	2	10-14	12-24	McGiven, Kevin	Henderson, Bryson
UAB	Franklin, James	3	13-23	39-59	Prince, Rob	Wynn, Dominic
UCF	Lembo, Pete	5	38-26	143-74	Johnson, Brian	Sanders, Kory
UCLA	Mora, Jim L.	7	63-29	63-29	Polian, Brian	Narduzzi, Pat
ULM	Petrino, Paul	1	6-7	29-46	Fletcher, Jeremy	Reffett, Troy
UMASS	Pollard, Antoine	5	18-43	18-43	Ciarrocca, Kirk	Grant, John
UNLV	Bielema, Bret	4	18-30	96-69	Castillo, Derek	Naivar, Craig
USC	Kiffin, Lane	9	83-36	90-42	Limegrover, Matt	Stoops, Mark
USF	Taggart, Willie	6	40-36	56-56	Cutcliffe, David	Bresnahan, Chuck
UTEP	Phillips, Jason	0	0-0	0-0	Thomas, Jeremy	Boyd, Darius
UTSA	Hazell, Darrell	3	18-20	46-55	Washington, Leon	Keenan, Justin
Utah	Smart, Kirby	5	32-32	32-32	Molnar, Charly	Sitake, Kalani
Utah State	Conklin, Josh	0	0-0	0-0	Weist, T.J.	Knowles, Jim
Vanderbilt	Ash, Chris	3	10-26	10-26	Rock, Brian	Stoker, Scott
Virginia	Johnson, Jay	4	34-19	45-21	Gundy, Mike	Tenuta, Joe
Virginia Tech	Foster, Bud	32	27-12	27-12	Pinkel, Gary	Papuchis, John
Wake Forest	Grobe, Jim	18	120-106	153-39	Peterson, Greg	Nagy, Rich
Washington	Diaz, Manny	4	29-22	40-25	Shaw, David	Wilcox, Justin
Washington State	Saadat, Payam	4	29-23	29-23	Rosenbach, Timm	Minter, Jesse
West Virginia	Carey, Rod	5	36-26	49-31	Weis, Charlie	Butler, John
Western Kentucky	Petrino, Bobby	6	39-39	114-65	Bradford, Joe	Disch, Dan
Western Michigan	Hayes, Tom	3	19-18	19-18	Dawson, Shannon	Lee, Ronnie
Wisconsin	Holtz, Skip	2	16-10	132-104	Briles, Art	Diaco, Bob
Wyoming	Howard, Chris	1	4-8	4-8	Downing, Evan	Hudson, Greg

[redsox907]

Kirby at Utah

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Jimbo Fisher at Akron got me too

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Ranking the SEC Coaching Staffs for 2019
From Arkansas and Alabama at the top to programs searching for answers, a look at the conference's coaching hierarchy entering the 2019 season
By Saturday Down South Staff | Jan 9, 2019, 9:42am EST



The dust has finally settled on one of the most chaotic offseasons in recent SEC history. Nick Saban retired. Alabama landed Luke Fickell. LSU made a surprising hire in Wayne Bolt. Florida brought Charlie Strong home. Ole Miss turned to Chuck Martin following Hugh Freeze's departure.

We're taking a look at how the conference's coaching staffs stack up entering 2019. These rankings evaluate the staffs themselves, not roster talent, schedule strength, or projected team records, and consider head coaching success, coordinator quality, continuity, and overall program direction.

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Tier 1: National Championship Caliber

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#1 Arkansas Razorbacks

Arkansas Razorbacks
Head Coach: Porter Davis (2nd season @ Arkansas, 12-2 at Arkansas, 49-6 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Marcus Arroyo
Defensive Coordinator: Marquase Lovings
Fresh off an SEC Championship and Sugar Bowl victory, Arkansas enters 2019 with the conference's hottest coaching staff. Davis turned a 2-10 program into a 12-win powerhouse in a single season and successfully fended off interest from Alabama during the offseason. Continuity remains the strength of this staff as the Razorbacks attempt to establish themselves as the SEC's newest power.

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#2 Alabama Crimson Tide

Alabama Crimson Tide
Head Coach: Luke Fickell (1st season at Alabama, 41-36 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Rick Skrosky
Defensive Coordinator: James Willis
The post-Saban era officially begins in Tuscaloosa. After a 13-1 season and National Coach of the Year honors at Miami (OH), Fickell was hand-picked to replace the greatest coach in program history. The challenge will be maintaining Alabama's championship standard while establishing his own identity.

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#3 Missouri Tigers

Missouri Tigers
Head Coach: Troy Calhoun (4th season at Missouri, 33-7 at Missouri, 105-53 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Sonny Cumbie
Defensive Coordinator: Tim Beckman
Quietly, Missouri has become one of the SEC's most consistent winners. Calhoun has posted an incredible 33-7 record since arriving in Columbia and enters 2019 with legitimate championship aspirations. The Tigers may be flying under the radar nationally, but few teams are as well positioned for a big season.

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Tier 2: SEC Championship Contenders

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#4 LSU Tigers

LSU Tigers
Head Coach: Wayne Bolt (1st season at LSU, 24-15 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Bryan Harsin
Defensive Coordinator: Mike Breske
Perhaps no hire generated more debate than LSU's decision to bring in Wayne Bolt. The former Troy head coach was not the splashy name many expected, but LSU believes his defensive philosophy and player development track record fit the program's identity. With Harsin coordinating the offense, the Tigers are betting substance matters more than headlines.

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#5 Florida Gators

Florida Gators
Head Coach: Charlie Strong (1st season at Florida, 53-37 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Brent Pease
Defensive Coordinator: Matt House
One of the biggest hires of the offseason brings Charlie Strong back to Gainesville. The former Florida defensive coordinator inherits a program searching for stability after the Will Muschamp era. Expectations are high, and Gator fans believe Strong's ties to the university can help restore Florida as an SEC contender.

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#6 Ole Miss Rebels

Ole Miss Rebels
Head Coach: Chuck Martin (1st season at Ole Miss, 0-0 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Lincoln Riley
Defensive Coordinator: Pete Rekstis
Following Hugh Freeze's departure, Ole Miss turned to longtime Notre Dame offensive coordinator Chuck Martin. Martin immediately assembled one of the most intriguing staffs in the conference by bringing in Lincoln Riley to run the offense. The Rebels are entering a new era and hoping to quickly regain their footing in the SEC West.

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#7 Georgia Bulldogs

Georgia Bulldogs
Head Coach: Mark Richt (19th season at Georgia, 163-74 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Mike Bobo
Defensive Coordinator: Todd Grantham
No coach in the SEC enters 2019 with more wins at his current school than Mark Richt. Georgia continues to recruit at a high level and remains one of the league's most stable programs. The question in Athens is whether Richt can finally break through and return the Bulldogs to the national championship conversation.

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Tier 3: Dangerous Bowl Teams

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#8 Tennessee Volunteers

Tennessee Volunteers
Head Coach: Matt Wells (3rd season at Tennessee, 16-10 at Tennessee, 42-34 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Sonny Dykes
Defensive Coordinator: Lou Spanos
The Volunteers have shown signs of progress under Matt Wells, but expectations in Knoxville remain sky-high. Tennessee believes Dykes can unlock an offense capable of competing with the SEC's elite. Another step forward could put the Vols firmly back in contention in the East.

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#9 Texas A&M Aggies

Texas A&M Aggies
Head Coach: Kevin Sumlin (8th season at Texas A&M, 65-26 at Texas A&M, 100-43 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Clarence McKinney
Defensive Coordinator: Mark Snyder
Few coaches enter 2019 under more pressure than Kevin Sumlin. Despite a strong overall record, Texas A&M has struggled to break through against the conference's top programs. The Aggies have the talent to compete for championships, but fans are demanding results.

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#10 South Carolina Gamecocks

South Carolina Gamecocks
Head Coach: Mark Hudspeth (6th season at South Carolina, 42-24 at South Carolina, 136-56 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Shawn Elliott
Defensive Coordinator: Lorenzo Ward
South Carolina has become one of the conference's steadiest programs under Mark Hudspeth. While the Gamecocks have not broken into the league's upper tier, they consistently compete for bowl games and remain a difficult matchup. Another winning season would further solidify Hudspeth's standing in Columbia.

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#11 Mississippi State Bulldogs

Mississippi State Bulldogs
Head Coach: Dan Mullen (11th season at Mississippi State, 72-56 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Les Koenning
Defensive Coordinator: Geoff Collins
Dan Mullen continues to squeeze every ounce of potential from one of the SEC's toughest jobs. Mississippi State remains a difficult out thanks to a veteran coaching staff and a culture built on toughness. The Bulldogs may not receive much preseason hype, but they rarely stay out of the race for long.

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Tier 4: Prove It

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12 Auburn Tigers

Auburn Tigers
Head Coach: Hank Hughes (3rd season at Auburn, 16-10 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Rhett Lashlee
Defensive Coordinator: Scott Shafer
After two solid seasons on the Plains, Hank Hughes enters 2019 looking to take the next step. Lashlee's offense has shown flashes of explosiveness while Shafer's defense has steadily improved. Auburn remains one of the SEC's most talented rosters, but consistency against the conference's elite teams will determine whether the Tigers can contend for Atlanta.

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#13 Kentucky Wildcats

Kentucky Wildcats
Head Coach: Robert Anae (1st season at Kentucky, 7-6 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Mike Schultz
Defensive Coordinator: D.J. Eliot
Kentucky made one of the most surprising hires of the carousel by tabbing first-time head coach Robert Anae. The Wildcats hope his offensive background can modernize the program and help close the gap with the rest of the SEC East. It is a gamble, but one Kentucky believes is necessary.

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Tier 5: Hot Seat

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#14 Vanderbilt Commodores

Vanderbilt Commodores
Head Coach: Chris Ash (4th season at Vanderbilt, 10-26 career)
Offensive Coordinator: Brian Rock
Defensive Coordinator: Scott Stoker
Chris Ash enters 2019 squarely on the hot seat after three difficult seasons. Vanderbilt faces unique challenges in the SEC, but patience is beginning to wear thin in Nashville. A bowl run may be necessary if Ash hopes to secure a fifth season.

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End of an Era: Arkansas Says Goodbye to Championship Core
Porter Davis and the Razorbacks face major roster turnover following an SEC Championship season
By Arkansas Fight Staff | Jan 9, 2019, 11:42am EST



Building a championship team is difficult. Keeping one together may be even harder.

Fresh off an SEC Championship and Sugar Bowl victory, Arkansas enters the 2019 offseason facing the reality that every successful program eventually encounters: saying goodbye to the players who helped build it. The Razorbacks will lose a significant portion of the veteran leadership that transformed Arkansas from a 2-10 afterthought into one of college football's premier programs in just one season.

In total, Arkansas will see thirteen scholarship players depart the program through graduation, the NFL Draft, or transfer. Among those departures are multiple All-SEC caliber performers, three projected NFL Draft selections, and several veteran leaders who formed the backbone of Porter Davis' first championship team.

While recruiting and player development have positioned Arkansas well for the future, replacing this much experience will be one of the biggest challenges facing the Razorbacks entering 2019.

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The NFL Bound Razorbacks

The headliner of the departing class is free safety Pernel Young, one of the most dominant defensive backs in school history. The All SEC senior leaves Fayetteville projected as a projected first-round selection after anchoring the Razorback secondary throughout the program's rise.

Safety Pernel Young
Projected NFL Draft: Round 1
2018 Statistics/Honors: 46 Tkl 6 TFL 1 Int 8 PD 1 FF 1 FR 2 Rec 28 Yds / All SEC 2nd Team

Young's ability to erase mistakes and patrol the deep middle allowed Arkansas to be aggressive defensively all season. His departure leaves a massive void in both production and leadership.

Joining Young in the draft is cornerback Bryon Davis, a projected third-round selection who developed into one of the SEC's top cover corners.

Cornerback Bryon Davis
Projected NFL Draft: Round 3
2018 Statistics/Honors: 36 Tkl 1 TFL 1 Int 6 PD

The final early entrant is defensive tackle Caesar Whitaker, who elected to leave school after his redshirt junior season. Projected as a sixth-round selection, Whitaker's departure further depletes Arkansas' defensive front.

Defensive Tackle Caesar Whitaker
Projected NFL Draft: Round 6
2018 Statistics/Honors: 28 Tkl 7 TFL 3.0 Sck 2 FF / All SEC 1st Team

Together, Young, Davis, and Whitaker account for three of the most talented players on Arkansas' roster and represent significant losses for Marquase Lovings' defense.

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Trench Leaders Move On

Few position groups will feel the impact of graduation more than the offensive and defensive lines.

Offensively, Arkansas loses veteran center Marvin Hodge and left tackle Leon Paulsen, two cornerstone pieces of the SEC's most improved offense.

Center Marvin Hodge
2018 Statistics/Honors: 17 Pck 1 Sck / All SEC 1st Team

Left Tackle Leon Paulsen
Projected NFL Draft: Round 6
2018 Statistics/Honors: 16 Pck 4 Sck / All American 2nd Team, All SEC 1st Team

Their departures leave Arkansas replacing both the leader of the offensive line and its premier blindside protector.

On the defensive front, Arkansas must also replace veteran Randall Hayes and All American Bart Wilson.

Defensive Tackle Randall Hayes
2018 Statistics/Honors: 4 Tkl 1 TFL 1.0 Sck

Defensive End Bart Wilson
2018 Statistics/Honors: 47 Tkl 18 TFL 8.0 Sck 1 PD 1 FF 1 FR / All American 1st Team / All SEC 1st Team

Combined with Whitaker's early departure, the Razorbacks lose three experienced contributors from the defensive line rotation.

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Linebackers Leave Their Mark

The second level of Arkansas' defense also takes a hit as their top two tacklers from 2018 are moving on.

Linebacker Derek Jones
2018 Statistics/Honors: 58 Tkl 15 TFL 5.0 Sck 1 Int 1 PD / All SEC 1st Team

Linebacker Roger Smith
2018 Statistics/Honors: 72 Tkl 17 TFL 5.0 Sck 1 PD / All SEC 1st Team

Both players were leaders on the defensive side of the ball and were pivotal in the Razorbacks' smothering defense that led them to the SEC Championship.

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Veterans in the Secondary

While Young and Davis receive most of the attention, Arkansas also loses valuable depth in the secondary. Brian Browne did everything the coaching staff asked him and more. Browne contributed in all three phases of the game, he led the team in receptions and also led the team in interceptions on defense. Browne played significant time at safety and linebacker as well as returning kicks and punts.

Safety/Receiver Brian Browne
2018 Statistics/Honors: 43 Rec 474 Yds 3 TD 2 Car 7 Yds 31 Tkl 2 TFL 0.5 Sck 3 Int 5 PD / All SEC 1st Team

Safety Kendall Everson
2018 Statistics/Honors: 17 Tkl 2 TFL 1 Int
Everson played an important supporting roles and provided experienced depth behind the Razorbacks' star defensive backs.

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The Unsung Contributors

Every championship team is built on more than stars alone.

Fullback Jayrone Calhoun quietly played an important role in Arkansas' physical rushing attack, serving as a lead blocker and special teams contributor throughout his career.

Jayrone Calhoun
2018 Statistics/Honors: 7 Car 7 Yds 2 TD

Though his contributions may not always appear in the box score, Calhoun helped establish the physical identity that became a trademark of the Razorback offense.

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One Transfer Departure

Arkansas also loses freshman defensive tackle Justin Concepcion, who entered the transfer portal seeking additional playing time.

Defensive Tackle Justin Concepcion
Transferred to UTSA

While Concepcion was viewed as a developmental prospect with potential, the depth chart at defensive tackle ultimately limited his opportunities in Fayetteville.

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What's Next?

Replacing thirteen departing players is never easy. Replacing thirteen players from a conference championship team is even more difficult.

Arkansas loses:
• 3 NFL Draft entrants
• 9 graduating seniors
• 1 transfer

More importantly, the Razorbacks lose leadership, experience, and many of the players responsible for one of the greatest turnarounds in SEC history.

The challenge for Porter Davis now shifts from building a winner to sustaining one.

If Arkansas is to remain among the SEC's elite in 2019, the next generation of Razorbacks will have to prove they are ready to carry the standard established by the departing class that brought championship football back to Fayetteville.

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National Signing Day 2019: Breaking Down the Nation's Best Recruiting Classes
Alabama finishes atop the rankings while several emerging contenders close the gap as the 2019 recruiting cycle comes to an end.
By Connor Reese | National Recruiting Insider



National Signing Day has officially brought the 2019 recruiting cycle to a close, and once again the nation's traditional powers sit atop the rankings. Alabama secured the No. 1 class in the country, Ohio State and Oklahoma weren't far behind, and several rising programs used strong finishes to position themselves for future championship runs.

Alabama once again proved why it remains college football's recruiting gold standard. The Crimson Tide finished with three five-star prospects, ten four-star recruits, and a class loaded with future starters. Ohio State finished second with a nation-leading four five-star commitments, while Oklahoma rounded out the top three after assembling one of the country's deepest classes.

Virginia Tech quietly secured the fourth-ranked class in the nation, while Missouri's fifth-place finish further validated the remarkable work being done in Columbia. Texas A&M, South Carolina, USC, Georgia Tech, and Florida State all landed inside the Top 10 and appear well-positioned heading into the next recruiting cycle.

Among the SEC programs, Alabama led the way, but several conference rivals made significant statements. South Carolina's seventh-ranked class continues Mark Hudspeth's steady rise in Columbia, while Texas A&M's sixth-ranked haul adds even more pressure to Kevin Sumlin heading into 2019. Ole Miss finished seventeenth nationally despite a coaching transition, and Kentucky's nineteenth-ranked class was one of the surprise stories of the cycle.

Arkansas finished No. 23 nationally after signing twenty prospects, including four four-star recruits and twelve three-star prospects. While Porter Davis and the Razorbacks did not challenge for a top-ten class, the defending SEC champions focused on strengthening roster depth following a season that culminated in an SEC Championship and Sugar Bowl victory.

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National Top 25 Recruiting Classes

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The Top 10 Recruits in America

With letters of intent signed and recruiting battles settled, these are the ten highest-rated prospects in the Class of 2019.

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The recruiting cycle may be complete, but the real work is only beginning. Alabama once again sits atop the rankings, while programs like Missouri, South Carolina, Texas A&M, and Ole Miss have assembled classes that could alter the balance of power in their conferences. The stars of the 2019 class now turn their attention toward campus, where expectations—and the pressure that comes with them—will only continue to grow.

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Arkansas Recruiting Report | NSD

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Razorbacks five on NSD, finish with nation's 23rd best class

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Newly Committed

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#476 Joe Campbell
WR #85 ***
6'3" 210
Texas City, Texas

Campbell gives Arkansas another physically imposing target at wide receiver and adds valuable size to an already strong offensive haul. At 6'3" and 210 pounds, he possesses the frame to become a difficult matchup on the outside and has shown the ability to use his body effectively to shield defenders from the football.

Though still developing as a route runner, Campbell impressed Arkansas coaches with his combination of strength, straight-line speed, and willingness to compete in contested-catch situations. His physical style projects well to SEC football, where he could eventually develop into a dependable possession receiver and red-zone threat.

The Razorbacks beat out Iowa State and Michigan to secure his commitment.

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#559 Mark Kelley
DE #59 ***
6'3" 250
Spencer, Iowa

Kelley provides Arkansas with another developmental defensive lineman capable of strengthening the Razorbacks' front seven. Built at 250 pounds, he already possesses the size necessary to compete in the trenches and is known for his physical approach against the run.

Arkansas coaches were attracted to Kelley's toughness, motor, and ability to hold his ground at the point of attack. While he may not be an elite pass-rushing prospect, he projects as a versatile defensive end who can contribute in multiple packages as he continues to refine his technique.

The Razorbacks beat out Iowa and South Carolina to land the Iowa native.

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#1166 Justin Smith
MLB #60 ***
6'2" 259
Redstone Arsenal, Alabama

Smith brings size, power, and an old-school mentality to the Arkansas linebacker room. At nearly 260 pounds, he is one of the most physically imposing defenders in the class and projects as a true downhill run stopper at the next level.

Arkansas coaches believe Smith's strength and instincts make him a natural fit in the middle of the defense. He excels at taking on blockers, filling gaps, and delivering physical tackles between the hashes. While his game is built around stopping the run, coaches feel he has the work ethic to continue developing into a complete linebacker.

The Razorbacks held off South Florida and Rice to secure his signature.

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#1503 Calvin Brown
CB #120 ***
5'11" 171
Leesburg, Florida

Brown gives Arkansas another athletic defensive back with intriguing long-term upside. The Florida native displays good footwork, fluid movement skills, and the speed necessary to compete on the perimeter against high-level receivers.

Though still refining his overall technique, Brown consistently impressed evaluators with his competitiveness and natural instincts in coverage. Arkansas coaches believe his athletic traits provide a solid foundation for future development within the Razorbacks' secondary.

Arkansas beat out South Carolina State and South Carolina in a closely contested recruiting battle.

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#2011 Ryan Hargrove
DE #188 **
6'2" 260
College Station, Texas

Hargrove arrives in Fayetteville as a junior college addition who could provide valuable depth along the defensive front. The powerful defensive end brings SEC-ready size and physicality, giving Arkansas another option in the trenches as the coaching staff continues to build depth across the roster.

At 260 pounds, Hargrove excels against the run and has shown the ability to anchor effectively at the point of attack. Arkansas coaches view him as a developmental rotational player who could contribute earlier than most recruits due to his junior college experience and physical maturity.

The Razorbacks beat out UTSA and Mississippi State to land the Texas product.

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Previous Signings

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#50 Bob Meeks
ATH #21 ****
6'2" 190
Mandeville, Louisiana

Meeks is viewed by many recruiting analysts as one of the most dynamic overall athletes in Louisiana. Arkansas recruited him heavily as a versatile chess piece capable of contributing on either side of the football.

At 6'2" with impressive speed and body control, Meeks could project at wide receiver, safety, or even as a hybrid offensive weapon depending on how he develops physically. Coaches reportedly love his open-field ability and competitiveness.

Arkansas fought off LSU, Ole Miss, Tulane, and Mississippi State to secure his commitment.

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#76 Jeremy Dodds
WR #18 ****
6'0" 180
Jackson, Mississippi

Dodds gives Arkansas another explosive athlete at a position of need and is widely regarded as one of the smoother route runners in the region. He combines reliable hands with strong acceleration after the catch and has experience both outside and in the slot.

Arkansas coaches reportedly believe he fits perfectly into Marcus Arroyo’s offense because of his versatility and ability to create mismatches in space.

The Razorbacks beat out Pitt, Nebraska and Alabama for his signature.

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#156 Joey Dowdell
ATH #33 ****
6'4" 222
Conroe, Texas

Dowdell may ultimately become the centerpiece of the class.

The four-star athlete possesses rare size and versatility, giving Arkansas multiple options for his future role. At 6'4", 222 pounds, Dowdell has the frame to develop into a linebacker, edge defender, tight end, or even a jumbo offensive weapon depending on how his body develops.

Recruiting insiders have praised his explosiveness and overall athletic ceiling, and Arkansas beat out several major SEC programs, including Alabama, Texas A&M, Georgia, and Tennessee, to secure his commitment.

The Razorbacks view him as a long-term impact player with one of the highest ceilings in the class.

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#269 Demetrius Baker
OLB #15 ****
6'0" 223
Nederland, Texas

Baker is considered one of the most college-ready defenders in Arkansas’ recruiting class. The four-star linebacker brings an aggressive downhill mentality along with excellent closing speed and natural instincts against the run.

He has experience both standing up and playing on the edge, giving Porter Davis’ defensive staff flexibility in how they eventually deploy him. Coaches also believe Baker has the athleticism to develop into an every-down SEC linebacker.

Arkansas edged out UCLA, Michigan and Ole Miss in a highly competitive recruiting battle.

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#312 Kenyon Brunner
DE #28 ***
6'4" 246
Gibson, Arkansas

Brunner arrives at Arkansas as a developmental pass-rushing prospect with intriguing physical upside. Standing 6'4" with long arms and solid initial burst off the edge, he gives the Razorbacks another high-effort defensive lineman to mold within their front seven.

Recruiters were drawn to Brunner’s closing speed and natural ability to disrupt plays in the backfield. While he remains somewhat raw technically, Arkansas coaches believe his combination of size, acceleration, and pursuit ability gives him significant long-term potential as an SEC edge defender.

The Razorbacks held off Texas A&M, Ole Miss, Missouri, and Auburn to land the talented Arkansas native.

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#374 Cory Ross
SS #5 ***
5'11" 183
Monticello, Louisiana

Ross gives Arkansas an athletic defensive back with versatility and range in the secondary. The Louisiana product plays with a physical edge despite being slightly undersized and is known for his instincts near the football. Arkansas coaches reportedly love his ability to play downhill against the run while still possessing enough athleticism to develop into a capable coverage safety.

Ross chose Arkansas over strong pushes from Tulane, Southern Miss, and Arkansas State.

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#411 Reggie Parrish
FS #6 ***
6'3" 207
Madison, Mississippi

Parrish gives Arkansas an experienced junior college defensive back with rare physical tools and immediate-impact potential. At 6'3" and over 200 pounds, he brings ideal SEC size to the secondary while also possessing impressive straight-line speed and range for a player of his frame.

Arkansas coaches were especially drawn to his downhill physicality and ability to close on ball carriers in space. Parrish projects as a hard-hitting safety capable of helping against the run immediately while still offering enough athleticism to develop into a strong coverage defender on the back end.

The Razorbacks beat out Southern Miss, Mississippi State, Alabama, and Tennessee to land one of the more sought-after JUCO defensive backs in the region.

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#495 J.J. Nixon
CB #27 ***
6'1" 188
Bella Vista, Arkansas

Nixon stayed home to give Arkansas a long, athletic cornerback with excellent instincts in coverage. The in-state prospect impressed recruiters with his combination of acceleration, physical press ability, and awareness in the secondary.

At 6'1", Nixon has the size coaches covet on the outside and plays with confidence at the line of scrimmage. Arkansas staff members reportedly believe his best football is still ahead of him thanks to his natural movement skills and feel for the position.

The Razorbacks successfully held off Baylor, Vanderbilt, Mississippi State, and Missouri to keep one of the state's top defensive backs home.

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#558 Josh Turner
ATH #55 ***
5'10" 220
Gardere, Louisiana

Turner is one of the more intriguing athletes in the class because of his versatility and physical running style. At 220 pounds, he already possesses SEC-ready size and could project at multiple positions.

Some schools viewed him as a running back, others as a linebacker or hybrid defensive player. Arkansas appears willing to let him develop naturally after arriving on campus, valuing his toughness and explosiveness above all else.

The Razorbacks beat out TCU, LSU, Tulane, and Mississippi State for his commitment.

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#624 Grant White
OLB #39 ***
6'2" 227
Columbia, Mississippi

White brings size and physicality to the linebacker room. A true run-stopper type prospect, White plays with heavy hands and flashes strong instincts attacking downhill. Arkansas defensive coaches reportedly see him as a natural fit for SEC football due to his toughness and willingness to take on blockers.

His recruitment turned into a tight battle with Auburn, Georgia, Ole Miss, and Florida State before Arkansas ultimately pulled ahead.

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#993 Jeffrey Christensen
OLB #68 ***
6'0" 215
Fort Bliss, Texas

Christensen projects as a high-motor linebacker capable of fitting into multiple defensive looks. Though still somewhat raw technically, he brings toughness and explosiveness off the edge. Arkansas sees him as a developmental player who could eventually carve out a role as either a hybrid outside linebacker or situational pass rusher.

His commitment represented a significant recruiting win over Texas A&M, Auburn, and Syracuse.

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#1124 Jeremy Collins
WR #167 ***
5'11" 181
West University, Texas

Collins adds speed and versatility to Arkansas’ offensive recruiting haul. Though not the biggest receiver in the class, he brings strong hands, open-field quickness, and the ability to create yards after the catch.

Arkansas coaches see Collins as a potential slot receiver and return specialist thanks to his acceleration and natural ball-carrying ability. He also flashed reliable hands throughout the recruiting process and showed the ability to make defenders miss in space.

The Razorbacks pulled Collins away from Missouri, Texas Tech, TCU, and Ole Miss after a strong late recruiting push.

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#1530 Darrell Schroeder
TE #65 **
6'2" 236
Morrilton, Arkansas

Schroeder gives Arkansas a physical, blue-collar tight end prospect capable of contributing in multiple ways offensively. Built with a sturdy frame and strong hands, he projects as the type of player who can help establish the edge in the run game while also serving as a reliable underneath target in the passing attack.

Though primarily recruited as a blocking tight end, Schroeder flashed enough athleticism and ball skills during the recruiting process to suggest he could grow into a versatile offensive piece over time. Coaches reportedly admire his toughness, balance after contact, and willingness to do the dirty work in the trenches.

Arkansas beat out Louisville, Illinois, Texas Tech, and Rice to secure the in-state prospect’s commitment.

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#1603 Kyle Mack
CB #134 **
5'10" 162
Allen, Texas

Mack may be lightly recruited compared to some others in the class, but Arkansas coaches see upside in his speed and coverage instincts. Though undersized, he plays aggressively and shows good fluidity changing direction in man coverage.

With Arkansas lacking depth in the secondary, Mack could eventually compete for playing time after adding strength and refining his technique.

The Razorbacks beat out interest from BYU, Minnesota, and Louisiana Tech to land the Texas defensive back.

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#1719 Tyler Jones
C #51 **
6'0" 309
River Ridge, Louisiana

Jones may not carry the flashy recruiting ranking of some others in the class, but Arkansas coaches believe he fills an important need in the trenches.

The powerful interior lineman is viewed as a developmental center with strong run-blocking ability and a sturdy frame. Coaches have praised his work ethic and physicality, and he could become an important depth piece as he develops within the Razorbacks’ offensive system.

Arkansas held off Vanderbilt, Mississippi State, Texas A&M, and Ole Miss to land his commitment.

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Class Overview

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Arkansas finished National Signing Day with 20 commitments and the nation's No. 23 recruiting class according to the final rankings. The class includes four four-star prospects, twelve three-star signees, and four two-star additions, giving Porter Davis and his staff a balanced group focused on both immediate contributors and long-term development.
The headliners remain versatile athletes Bob Meeks and Joey Dowdell, while Arkansas also strengthened key positions at wide receiver, linebacker, defensive back, and along both lines of scrimmage. The Razorbacks emphasized size, versatility, and athleticism throughout the cycle, particularly on defense where several signees project to fit multiple roles.
While Arkansas did not land the same volume of five-star talent as national powers such as Alabama, Ohio State, and Oklahoma, the Razorbacks assembled a class that addresses several roster needs and continues the foundation Davis has built since arriving in Fayetteville.
With National Signing Day complete, attention now shifts toward spring practice and whether this group can help Arkansas take the next step in its pursuit of an SEC championship.