College Hoops

Five New Year’s Resolutions for Arkansas fans

Five New Year’s Resolutions for Arkansas fans

If you, dear Arkansas fan, did any of the following in 2022, raise your hand. Don’t be shy. Up they go.

  • Said something about firing Kendal Briles
  • Remarked “…worst-officiated game I’ve ever seen”
  • Wondered whether Sam Pittman was the man to lead the program
  • Exchanged barbs with opposition’s fan on Twitter
  • Complained about player loyalty, the NIL and the transfer portal

Count how many times that was done – and be honest, now – and then counter it with how many non-football, baseball or basketball games you watched this year. Tally them.

Which total is higher?

New Year’s Day is arrived and with it, thousands re-dedicating their lives to something. Exercise. Dieting. Removal of something. Spending more time with family. All kinds of stuff. For collective fandom, however, perhaps it’s time to consider some changes, too.

These are five New Year’s resolutions all fans should do their best to keep in 2023.

Understand the NIL and transfer portal are good for athletes and the game

Auburn Tigers running back Tank Bigsby (4) jukes Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Myles Slusher (2) as the Auburn Tigers take on Arkansas Razorbacks at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Ala., on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022. Arkansas Razorbacks defeated Auburn Tigers 41-27.

It’s a game. Not a family. And even if it is a family, almost half of marriages end in divorce, anyway.

Sorry, but.

The introduction of the NIL and the transfer portal has been a blessing for student-athletes who can now – finally – control their own future. Coaches could leave at the drop of a hat. They could make ungodly amounts of money for their participation in a sport.

Now athletes can, too. Both.

God bless them for it.

Respect officials

FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS – NOVEMBER 19: Head Coach Sam Pittman of the Arkansas Razorbacks talks with the officials during the first half of a game against the Mississippi Rebels at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium on November 19, 2022 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

They don’t hate your team. They don’t hate the other team. They have zero vested interest the outcome of games. They aren’t trying to stop your dreams or, more importantly, those of your favorite players, coaches and universities.

Officials make mistakes. Mistakes change games. Games don’t change lives. At least, they don’t change yours. Let the people whose livelihoods depend on…

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