The Arkansas football quarterback competition is heating up as the Razorbacks prepare for their Red-White Game on April 25. Offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey stated there is currently no clear leader between KJ Jackson and AJ Hill for the starting position.
Key points
Arkansas football QB competition is ongoing.
Red-White Game is on April 25.
No clear leader in the QB race.
KJ Jackson and AJ Hill are the main competitors.
Season opener is against North Alabama on September 5.
Arkansas RazorbacksKJ JacksonAJ HillRed-White Game
FAYETTEVILLE — The Arkansas football quarterback competition will reach an important checkpoint this weekend.
The Razorbacks conclude spring camp with their annual Red-White Game on Saturday, April 25. It will be the 15th and final practice of this block of the preseason under first-year coach Ryan Silverfield.
Offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey spoke to the local media Wednesday, April 22 and provided an update on the ongoing battle between redshirt sophomore KJ Jackson and redshirt freshman AJ Hill. Cramsey, who has been with Silverfield since 2022, said there is no "leader in the clubhouse" in the race to see who will be under center when the Hogs open the 2026 season against North Alabama on Sept. 5.
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) runs after a catch during a passing drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Hunter Osborn (0) gets ready for a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Q&A
Who are the Arkansas football quarterbacks competing for the starting position?
The quarterbacks competing for the starting position are redshirt sophomore KJ Jackson and redshirt freshman AJ Hill.
When is the Arkansas Razorbacks Red-White Game scheduled?
The Arkansas Razorbacks Red-White Game is scheduled for April 25.
What did offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey say about the QB competition?
Tim Cramsey mentioned that there is no 'leader in the clubhouse' in the ongoing quarterback competition.
When does the Arkansas football team open the 2026 season?
The Arkansas football team opens the 2026 season against North Alabama on September 5.
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Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws the ball during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive players head to the next drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Hunter Osborn (0) gets ready for a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield shows players a technique during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) wraps up the ball during a passing drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Hunter Osborn (0) squeezes some water on his neck while talking with defensive lineman Trajen Odom during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) runs after a catch during a passing drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over the field during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over the field during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Quincy Rhodes (97) runs a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Kobe Branham (50) gets back in line for the next drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) drops back to pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Jamari Hawkins (9) walks back to the line for the next drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Quincy Rhodes (97) listens to a coach before a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Quincy Rhodes (97) runs a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Quincy Rhodes (97) runs a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) tries to get around the pads to get open during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Jamari Hawkins (9) reaches out to catch a pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Kobe Branham (50) gets back in line for the next drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) puts his hands on his hips in between drills during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Jamari Hawkins (9) walks back to get in line for a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) gets ready to throw a pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) gets ready for the snap during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) tries to get around the pads to get open during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) drops back to pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) gets ready to throw a pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) looks for a receiver to throw to during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) takes a snap during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks on during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) runs after a catch during a passing drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) runs after a catch during a passing drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Hunter Osborn (0) gets ready for a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) throws the ball during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive players head to the next drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Hunter Osborn (0) gets ready for a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield shows players a technique during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) wraps up the ball during a passing drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Hunter Osborn (0) squeezes some water on his neck while talking with defensive lineman Trajen Odom during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) runs after a catch during a passing drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over the field during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks over the field during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Quincy Rhodes (97) runs a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Kobe Branham (50) gets back in line for the next drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Where does Arkansas football QB competition stand entering spring game?
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) drops back to pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Jamari Hawkins (9) walks back to the line for the next drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Quincy Rhodes (97) listens to a coach before a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Quincy Rhodes (97) runs a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks defensive lineman Quincy Rhodes (97) runs a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) tries to get around the pads to get open during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Jamari Hawkins (9) reaches out to catch a pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Kobe Branham (50) gets back in line for the next drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) puts his hands on his hips in between drills during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Jamari Hawkins (9) walks back to get in line for a drill during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) gets ready to throw a pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) gets ready for the snap during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Chris Marshall (6) tries to get around the pads to get open during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Where does Arkansas football QB competition stand entering spring game?
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) drops back to pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) gets ready to throw a pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jackson (7) looks for a receiver to throw to during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Arkansas football spring practice photos: See Razorbacks' newcomers
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) takes a snap during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Ryan Silverfield looks on during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
"It’s a fiery competition, but they're working together, which is good," Cramsey said. "They're competing against each other, but they understand that it's for the good of the team. Neither one’s perfect, but you know, there has been improvement every single day."
According to Cramsey, both quarterbacks have become better pre-snap readers of the defense. He said that Hill had an early advantage in this department after the Memphis transfer spent the 2025 season in Cramsey's system.
The offensive coordinator also praised Hill's development as an athlete. At 6-foot-4 and 234 pounds, Hill might never be a quarterback that takes off and runs for big gains, but Cramsey likes his progress in rolling out of the pocket and providing some sort of threat with his legs.
Jackson has an edge in this department. He's a true dual-threat, and to Cramsey's eyes, the lefty is becoming a better technician from the pocket. He also has more experience after appearing in five games last season.
Both quarterbacks also have things they need to improve. Cramsey demands an extreme level of consistency out of Jackson.
"He'll make 10 great throws and then miss one, and that's something we're working on," Cramsey said.
The coordinator wants Hill to play cleaner football. The righty mixes in some occasional questionable decisions within an offense he already knows.
Overall, Arkansas is pleased with both players production in spring practices. Cramsey and quarterbacks coach Mitch Stewart chart every throw during 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 drills. They have Jackson and Hill both completing more than 70% of their passes.
The quarterbacks will be on different teams during the spring game, but there won't be a first-team offense. Silverfield and his assistants are trying to divide the teams evenly to create the most competitive environment. The official rosters are expected to be released on Thursday, April 23.
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) drops back to pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback AJ Hill (2) drops back to pass during spring practice at the Arkansas Razorbacks practice facilities. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Cramsey won't even call the plays for the scrimmage. He is using the day purely for evaluation, with Stewart and wide receivers coach Larry Smith taking up the play-calling duties for their respective teams.
Whichever quarterback plays better inside Razorback Stadium might take the lead in the competition, but it won't be the deciding factor. Cramsey and Stewart are watching everything they do, from how they answer questions inside the football center to how they interact with their teammates in the locker room.
"It’ll be a great day for evaluation, but so is how they walk into the meeting this afternoon at 1 o'clock," Cramsey said. "That's kind of how we add pressure to that situation as much as possible."
Jackson Fuller covers Arkansas football, basketball and baseball for the Southwest Times Record, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at jfuller@usatodayco.com or follow him@jacksonfuller16on X, formerly known as Twitter.
