BREAKING: Razorbacks fans react in shock as coach Sam Pittman makes surprising statement announcing that RB Stephen Dix Jr. has been made the..

 

Razorbacks fans react in shock as coach Sam Pittman makes surprising statement announcing that RB Stephen Dix Jr. has been made the..

In a stunning development from Razorback country, head coach Sam Pittman delivered an unexpected announcement during a post-practice press conference, revealing that senior transfer Stephen Dix Jr. has been named the team’s starting running back heading into the fall.

“Stephen has earned it, plain and simple,” Pittman said. “His work ethic, physicality, and leadership set the tone this spring. He’s been the most consistent guy in the room, and we’re ready to ride with him.”

The decision has sent shockwaves through the Arkansas fan base and the college football world alike, as Dix was primarily known for his work as a linebacker during his time at Florida State. The transition to offense — particularly to such a high-impact position — has been a quietly developing storyline throughout spring practices, but few expected him to leapfrog the established running back corps.

Fans React With Disbelief and Curiosity

“Wait — Stephen Dix Jr., the linebacker?” one stunned fan wrote on a Razorbacks forum moments after the news broke. “This is either madness or the greatest position switch since Brian Urlacher played safety in college.”

Social media quickly lit up with debate. Some praised Pittman’s boldness, while others questioned the depth and readiness of the traditional running back room.

“This could be genius. If he brings that linebacker-level physicality to the run game, he might be a wrecking ball,” another fan posted. “But man, what a curveball.”

Team Responds to Leadership Move

Inside the locker room, Pittman’s decision is reportedly being met with respect — and even excitement. Quarterback KJ Jackson said, “Stephen’s got juice. He’s tough, fearless, and brings a defensive mindset to the offense. We’re all behind him.”

While Pittman emphasized that competition remains open, he made clear that Dix Jr. would enter fall camp as RB1 — barring injury or a major shakeup.

A New Identity for Arkansas?

This announcement could signal a broader identity shift for the Razorbacks in 2025, with Pittman embracing an even more physical, smashmouth brand of football. As the SEC continues to evolve into a hybrid of speed and power, Arkansas may be carving out a new niche — one built around aggression and unpredictability.

Whether Dix Jr. thrives or falters in his new role, one thing is certain: Razorback fans will be watching closely, and the rest of the SEC has just been put on notice.