ROCKET SANDERS POWERS RAZORBACKS’ OFFENSE WITH EXPLOSIVE GROUND GAME…READ…MORE…

ROCKET SANDERS POWERS RAZORBACKS’ OFFENSE WITH EXPLOSIVE GROUND GAME…READ…MORE…

In a season where consistency has been hard to come by for the Arkansas Razorbacks, one constant has been the unstoppable engine in the backfield — Raheim “Rocket” Sanders. The senior running back has once again emerged as the heart of the Razorbacks’ offense, using his power, vision, and elite burst to dominate defenses and fuel Arkansas’ push for postseason success.

After battling early-season injuries in 2024, Sanders has returned to top form in 2025 and is showing why he remains one of the SEC’s premier ball carriers. Through 11 games, Sanders has racked up 1,284 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 6.3 yards per carry. His combination of downhill running and breakaway speed has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

“Rocket is playing with a chip on his shoulder,” said head coach Sam Pittman after Arkansas’ 31–24 win over Ole Miss. “He’s healthy, he’s focused, and he’s running like a man on a mission. When he gets going, he sets the tone for the whole team.”

That tone has become Arkansas’ offensive identity. With quarterback play fluctuating and a young receiving corps still developing, the Razorbacks have leaned heavily on Sanders to keep the chains moving. He delivered a signature performance two weeks ago against Kentucky, rushing for 212 yards and two touchdowns — including a 67-yard breakaway run that electrified the crowd at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

“I trust my line, I trust my reads, and I’m just doing what I’ve trained to do,” Sanders said. “It’s about staying patient, staying physical, and making the defense feel it every time I touch the ball.”

Sanders’ success has also helped open up opportunities for Arkansas’ passing game, with defenses stacking the box to contain him. Offensive coordinator Dan Enos has praised Sanders not only for his production but also for his leadership and football IQ.

“He sees the field like a quarterback,” Enos said. “He understands what defenses are doing, and he’s become a complete back — running, catching, blocking, leading. You can’t ask for more from a player.”

With NFL scouts watching closely, Sanders’ draft stock continues to rise. But his focus remains squarely on finishing strong with the Razorbacks. At 7–4, Arkansas is eyeing a bowl berth, and Sanders knows his performance will be key to how far they can go.

“This team means everything to me,” Sanders said. “I came back to prove something — to myself, to my teammates, to everyone who’s believed in me. And I’m not done yet.”

As Arkansas prepares for its final regular-season test against Missouri, one thing is certain: as long as Rocket Sanders is in the backfield, the Razorbacks have a chance to win — and win big. His explosive ground game isn’t just fueling the offense; it’s fueling hope in Fayetteville.