Arkansas Football Spring Game 2017: 5 things to watch for

By John Buhler | Apr 24, 2017

Dec 29, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Bret Bielema questions the ref on a call during the fourth quarter of the Belk Bowl at Bank of America Stadium. The Hokies win the Belk Bowl 35-24 over the Razorbacks. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oct 15, 2016; Fayetteville, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks offensive lineman Dan Skipper (70) celebrates with teammates after the game against the Ole Miss Rebels at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Arkansas defeated Ole Miss 34-30. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Replacing Dan Skipper

Arkansas’ biggest strength as a football program comes as absolutely no surprise. Bret Bielema’s team looks to be stout up front yet again. Four of five starters along the offensive line will return to Fayetteville. Some of those guys include Frank Ragnow and Hjalte Froholdt.

However, the biggest body up front from last year has gone missing. Not like the near seven-footer is all that hard to find, but left tackle Dan Skipper will begin his career in the NFL. Even at Arkansas, Skipper was more of a work-in-progress offensive line project.

That being said, only a fool would not want that elite combination of size and quickness on the outside. Skipper will be sorely missed in Fayetteville, but we must trust Bielema’s ability to coach and develop offensive line talent.

Ragnow might be the best center in the SEC, with a promising NFL career ahead of him. Froholdt could have a breakout junior season up front for the Razorbacks. Look for any of the many upperclassmen along the offensive line including Jackson Hannah, Paul Ramirez, and Jake Raulerson to make a positive impact as a part of the Hogs’ front-five.

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