Familiar Faces in Familiar Places

DALLAS, T.X. (PIG TRAIL NATION) – After a disappointing 2023 season that saw Sam Pittman’s Razorbacks go 4-8, the Hogs saw numerous players hit the transfer portal and head to various places across the country.

Some former Razorbacks found their way back to the SEC. Linebacker Chris “Pooh” Paul is now an Ole Miss Rebel and running back Raheim “Rocket” Sanders found a home at South Carolina.

Paul, who left Fayetteville after three years as a Razorback, recorded 70 tackles and two sacks in 2023. Now, in Oxford, he is two lockers away from Rebels wide receiver Tre Harris.

“We always talking and you know, I’m excited for him, excited to see him play place on the sideline,” Harris said at media days. “You know, he’s been learning to coach (Todd) Golden’s defense nonstop. He’s almost taking a leadership role as well. You know, is going to be really excited to see him.”

Over in Columbia, S.C., Rocket Sanders is fitting in well with the Gamecocks. While he has yet to practice due to recovering from an injury, he is already making a strong impression with his teammates.

“He does everything the right way,” South Carolina athlete Luke Doty said. “He’s the kind of guy that younger guys on the team look up to him and see how he handles himself.”

Sanders battled injury last season totaling 209 yards in six games played. In 2022, Sanders was named First-Team All-SEC and was on the SEC All-Freshman team back in 2021.

Now, he’s looking to reinvigorate his career in South Carolina.

“He carries himself like a pro.” Doty added. “I think that’s going to pay off for him this year.”

Sanders will not get his revenge game against Arkansas in 2024, however, Paul will be returning to Arkansas on November 2, when Ole Miss comes to town.