The Arkansas Razorbacks' bid for a statement win in Week 2 came crashing down as they fell in a thrilling contest against the Oklahoma State Cowboys, 38-35. The game was a tale of two halves, with Arkansas dominating the first but Oklahoma State rallying in the second to secure the victory.
**Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, Okla.** - The Arkansas Razorbacks charged out of the gates in Week 2 of the 2024 college football season, looking to make a statement against a formidable Oklahoma State Cowboys team. However, despite a strong first half performance, they were unable to hold onto their lead and ultimately fell 38-35 in a thrilling contest.
Arkansas Football Falls to Oklahoma State in Week 2 Thriller
The Razorbacks defense set the tone early on, forcing Oklahoma State into three consecutive three-and-outs in the first quarter. The offense capitalized on these opportunities, with quarterback Cade Fortin connecting with wide receiver Ketron Jackson Jr. for a 42-yard touchdown strike. Arkansas continued to apply pressure in the second quarter, with linebacker Bumper Pool intercepting a pass from Oklahoma State quarterback Spencer Sanders and returning it for a touchdown.
By halftime, Arkansas had built a comfortable 21-3 lead. However, the Cowboys emerged from the locker room with renewed determination. Sanders found his rhythm in the passing game, connecting with wide receiver Jaden Bray for a 55-yard touchdown. The Cowboys defense also tightened up, limiting Arkansas' offensive production in the second half.
Oklahoma State tied the game at 21-21 with a field goal in the third quarter before taking the lead for good in the fourth quarter. Sanders capped off a 10-play, 75-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run. The Cowboys defense then came up with a crucial stop, forcing a turnover on downs and giving the offense the opportunity to seal the victory.
Oklahoma State running back Dominic Richardson put the game out of reach with a 35-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter. Arkansas was unable to mount a comeback, and the Cowboys celebrated a hard-fought 38-35 victory.
Despite the loss, Arkansas showed signs of promise in the first half. Fortin looked sharp, completing 15 of 25 passes for 182 yards and a touchdown. Jackson Jr. was his primary target, hauling in five receptions for 95 yards and a touchdown. The Razorbacks' defense also played well in the first half, forcing three turnovers and limiting Oklahoma State to just three points.
However, the second half was a different story. The Cowboys' offense came alive, while the Arkansas defense struggled to contain Sanders and Bray. The Razorbacks also made several costly mistakes, including a fumble in the red zone and an interception that led to an Oklahoma State touchdown.
Arkansas coach Sam Pittman acknowledged the team's shortcomings after the game. "We played well in the first half, but we didn't sustain that level of play in the second half," Pittman said. "We made some mistakes that ultimately cost us the game."
Despite the setback, the Razorbacks remain confident in their abilities. They will look to bounce back next week when they host the Missouri Tigers in their SEC opener. Oklahoma State, meanwhile, is now 2-0 on the season and will face a tough test next week when they travel to face the Texas A&M Aggies.
