Dazmin James reacts to catching longest touchdown in Arkansas history

Arkansas ended the 2024 season on a high note, holding off Texas Tech for a 39-26 win Friday night in the Liberty Bowl, and it was a night to remember for wide receiver Dazmin James.

Amid a myriad of changes to the Razorbacks roster, James was thrust into action against the Red Raiders after not catching a pass throughout the regular season. It worked out perfectly for Arkansas, as James amassed 137 receiving yards during the game, highlighted by a 94-yard score on his first catch — the longest touchdowns in Razorbacks’ history.

Afterwards, James reacted to setting a record during his first real action of his college football career, and he was humble as ever following finding out about the accomplishment.

“I didn’t really find out until after the game,” James said, regarding his reaction to setting the record for the Razorbacks, via his postgame press conference. “But it feels amazing. My first catch ever as a collegiate athlete. Catch the ball, 94 yards. It just feels amazing. I just want to thank TG [Taylen Green].”

Perhaps Arkansas has a budding star in James. It was only one game, but he flashed a ton against Texas Tech, when the lights were the brightest. The Razorbacks might have a piece they can build something with in 2025.

All told, with the victory in the Liberty Bowl, Arkansas finishes the season with a 7-6 record. The Razorbacks had a nice bounce back season under Sam Pittman after going 4-8 in 2023.

The Arkansas leader has now led the Razorbacks to at least seven wins in three of the past four seasons. He will be back leading the program in 2025, as Sam Pittman and company will be looking to finish with another winning season.

Sam Pittman evaluates Arkansas offensive line play in Liberty Bowl win

Moreover, Arkansas head coach Sam Pittman was asked how he felt like his offensive line played in the Razorbacks’ bowl victory, particularly with some new pieces up front.

“Well, I mean, we had 559 yards, and I think we had one sack,” Sam Pittman said. “We got beat on the outside. I think the sack was the safety. And really we missed the block in the backfield on that one. But, you know, I would think they played well.”

Arkansas had three new starters on the offensive line after three starters entered the transfer portal at the conclusion of the regular season. One of the starters who stuck around was E’Marion Harris, who just so happened to get his first real playing time for the Razorbacks in the 2022 Liberty Bowl.

In addition to the offensive line, Arkansas also had some players step up at skill position spots, too.

“E’Marion Harris got his opportunity here two years ago. But I think they played well,” Pittman said. “I think our skill players that we may or may not have known about before tonight, I think they really made some big-time plays.”

On3’s Dan Morrison contributed to this article.