NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Arkansas turned two interceptions into pivotal plays Saturday night, defeating Vanderbilt 31-21 to earn its first Southeastern Conference victory since 2024.
Joker Johnson returned an interception 25 yards for a touchdown in the first quarter, and Miguel Mitchell stopped a late Vanderbilt drive as the Razorbacks snapped a 14-game conference losing streak.
Arkansas (3-4, 1-3 SEC) led 28-21 when Vanderbilt quarterback Jared Curtis moved the Commodores to the Razorbacks’ 29-yard line with 3:46 remaining. Mitchell intercepted Curtis on second-and-12, setting up a possession that ended with Max Gilbert’s 39-yard field goal.
Quarterback KJ Jackson helped lead Arkansas with 251 yards passing and 58 yards rushing. He completed 21 of 31 passes and scored on an 8-yard run early in the third quarter to put the Razorbacks ahead 21-14.
Cam Settles added 45 yards rushing and two touchdowns. Arkansas used five ball carriers and responded with a score after each Vanderbilt touchdown.
Razorbacks coach Ryan Silverfield credited his players’ commitment and continued improvement, describing the breakthrough victory as the result of contributions throughout the team.
Curtis completed 19 of 31 passes for 274 yards. Sedrick Alexander and Makhilyn Young each scored a rushing touchdown for Vanderbilt.
Commodores coach Clark Lea said the team continues to evaluate personnel and give players opportunities as it works toward a more complete performance.
Vanderbilt again struggled to contain the running game after allowing 196 rushing yards against Mississippi in its previous outing. Arkansas’ ability to move the ball on the ground helped the Razorbacks maintain control in the second half.
Arkansas has an open week before hosting No. 13 Missouri on Oct. 31. Vanderbilt travels to No. 15 Kentucky on Saturday.
