FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Junior defensive lineman Quincy Rhodes Jr. of the Arkansas Razorbacks is making his mark this season with a strong pass-rush showing and a growing understanding of his role.
Rhodes has recorded eight sacks this season, ranking 10th in the country. He entered a hot streak recently with three sacks over his last two games — two in a loss to Auburn and one against Mississippi State.
With Arkansas preparing to face LSU on Saturday at 11:45 a.m., Rhodes has another chance to stand out.
Arkansas interim coach Bobby Petrino said Rhodes has become more confident and complete as the season has gone on.
“Quincy was always like this big, talented guy that was young and inexperienced, and now he’s playing completely different,” Petrino said. “He’s playing with a lot of confidence and speed.”
“It’s amazing how much, when you really understand and know your position and know what the other side of the ball is doing, how much faster you play,” Petrino said. “He didn’t get faster physically, but because he knows the game. He’s playing faster and playing quicker and being a force out there.”
Those comments reflect how Rhodes has developed not only physically but mentally, gaining a sharper grasp of his role in the defensive scheme.
That growth is especially important as Arkansas looks to end its SEC losing streak and finish the season with momentum. Petrino has emphasized growth and preparation for the future while helping younger players such as Rhodes become leaders on defense.
Rhodes prepares for LSU matchup
LSU’s offensive line has allowed 19 sacks this season, ranking 88th in the nation.
Arkansas (2-7, 0-5 SEC) will rely on Rhodes and the rest of the defensive front to pressure the Tigers’ quarterbacks, whether it is senior Garrett Nussmeier or sophomore Michael Van Buren Jr.
“They’ve had some protection struggles and some issues with their protection at times,” Petrino said. “Certainly that’s one of the areas we need to try to take advantage of.”
“[Van Buren] is probably quicker to leave the pocket, quicker athletically leaving the pocket to get yards,” Petrino said. “I’ll bet they’ll be noncommittal the whole week, probably, and make us prepare for both of them.”
Rhodes will be tasked with forcing hurried throws and closing off running lanes against LSU’s mobile quarterbacks.
His timing and burst off the edge could make the difference against a Tigers offense that relies on tempo and short passes.
Defensive coordinator Travis Williams has echoed Petrino’s view that Rhodes’ football IQ has improved.
As Rhodes learns to recognize formations and anticipate play calls, he is becoming more than just a pass-rush specialist.
Developing balance in run defense
While Rhodes’ sack total draws attention, Petrino said the next step is consistency against the run.
“Continually just understand how to defend the run game, because he loves the passing game,” Petrino said. “He understands stances and knowing when the pass is coming a little bit better each and every week.
“We still need him to be a force in the run game. When he’s been in movement, he’s made good plays defending the run, and then when he’s just had to hold his gap, that’s where he’s got to continue to work his hands and his leverage.”
That emphasis shows that while Rhodes is strong in pass situations, the staff wants him to develop into a complete lineman who can disrupt both phases of an offense.
Improving in that area will help Arkansas contain LSU’s rushing attack, which ranks among the SEC’s best in yards per carry. For the Razorbacks, maintaining gap discipline and reading blocking schemes will be key to staying off the field.
If Rhodes can continue producing sacks while improving against the run, he could emerge as one of the SEC’s most balanced defensive linemen. His progress could also serve as a foundation for Arkansas’ future defensive identity.
Building for the future
Arkansas is playing for pride in the final weeks of the season. For Rhodes, every game represents a chance to grow as a player and a leader.
Facing an LSU offensive line that has struggled in protection, he has a meaningful opportunity to impact the outcome.
Continued success in the pass rush, combined with better run-stopping technique, would strengthen his profile heading into his senior season.
“It’s really about understanding what’s happening around you and reacting faster,” Petrino said earlier this week. “Quincy is starting to see the game differently. That’s what’s helping him stand out right now.”
The development of players like Rhodes will be crucial as Arkansas looks toward 2026. Whether Petrino remains in charge or a new staff arrives, Rhodes’ presence could anchor a defense in transition.
Key takeaways:
-
Quincy Rhodes Jr. has eight sacks this season and ranks among the nation’s top pass rushers.
-
Bobby Petrino says Rhodes has improved by understanding the game and playing faster.
-
The staff wants Rhodes to continue improving in run defense to become a complete lineman.
