Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

SMU's Rhett Lashlee Emerges as Top Arkansas Coaching Candidate

10/1/2025

50 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee is a candidate for the Arkansas vacancy after Sam Pittman's firing.
Lashlee, a former Arkansas quarterback, has SMU at 31-14 and a College Football Playoff berth.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones supports Lashlee, citing his Arkansas connections.
Interim coach Bobby Petrino is also a candidate for the permanent Arkansas job.

History

Historical Context

Houston Nutt became head coach of the University of Arkansas in 1998, achieving a 75-48 record and winning the SEC West title in 2002. His tenure highlighted the program's potential. Following Sam Pittman's firing in 2023, former quarterback Rhett Lashlee is a candidate for the position, with support from local figures like Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, emphasizing community ties in coaching decisions.

1 of 2

Story summary

SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee is a candidate for the Arkansas vacancy after Sam Pittman's firing.
Lashlee, a former Arkansas quarterback, has SMU at 31-14 and a College Football Playoff berth.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones supports Lashlee, citing his Arkansas connections.
Interim coach Bobby Petrino is also a candidate for the permanent Arkansas job.

1 / 2