Arkansas tops Vanderbilt 31-21 to end 14-game SEC losing streak

Joker Johnson sparked the Razorbacks with a 25-yard pick-6, Cam Settles rushed for two scores, and Miguel Mitchell grabbed a late interception to secure the program's first conference triumph since 2024.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) Miguel Mitchell and Joker Johnson each had an interception to help Arkansas beat Vanderbilt 31-21 on Saturday night, snapping the Razorbacks' 14-game Southeastern Conference losing streak.

Jared Curtis drove Vanderbilt to the Arkansas 29 with 3:46 left in the game, but Mitchell picked off his pass attempt on second-and-12. Max Gilbert then kicked a 39-yard field on the ensuing series to help seal it for the Razorbacks, who won their first SEC game since 2024.

“I think our guys continue to show improvement. We found a way, developed, and that was a total team win. And that win, if you talk about it, it's been two years, whatever, that win was for the players ... they've trusted this process,” Arkansas coach Ryan Silverfield said.

During the first quarter, Johnson provided the initial spark for Arkansas (3-4, 1-3) with a 25-yard pick-6.

The Razorbacks' run game lifted them throughout, amassing 187 yards. Cam Settles ran for 45 yards and two scores. Quarterback KJ Jackson finished with 58 yards rushing, and his 8-yard touchdown run gave the Razorbacks a 21-14 lead early in the third quarter.

Jackson completed 21 of 31 passes for 251 yards.

Curtis was 19-of-31 passing for 274 yards. Sedrick Alexander and Makhilyn Young each had a touchdown run for the Commodores.

“We're actively in pursuit of a better performance. We're trying to find the right combination of people. We're giving guys opportunities to play, and you know, we'll be better,” Vanderbilt coach Clark Lea said.

Arkansas: The Razorbacks ran the ball efficiently and their scores were timely. They spread the running game among five rushers, and answered each time Vanderbilt scored a touchdown.

Vanderbilt: The defense was highly touted coming into the season, but has been disappointing the last two games defending the rush. Against Ole Miss, the Commodores allowed 196 yards rushing and 170 against Arkansas. If the Commodores want to be more competitive in SEC play, they have to stop the run.

Arkansas: Has a bye week before facing No. 13 Missouri at home on Oct. 31.

Vanderbilt: Visits No. 15 Kentucky on Saturday.

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