Ohio State at Arkansas

Recap

The Big Storyline: The Razorbacks eked out a team win in their season home opener, but the Buckeyes swept the individual event titles.

Implications: While this was a lackluster performance by Arkansas’s standards, it’s important to note that it was missing key contributions from the bulk of its stellar freshman class (including former four-star recruit Leah Smith). Ohio State turned in a solid performance, proving that its 16th place finish in 2021 was no fluke.

Records: Elexis Edwards tied her career high 9.875 on vault. 

Controversies: Lovett received a 9.350 (raised from an initial 9.250) after a hip check during her front aerial to layout step-out series. The judges decided not to credit the connection and thus lowered her start value, much to the confusion and frustration of Arkansas fans. 

Preview

Current Rankings: No. 22 Ohio State at No. 11 Arkansas

Why You Should Make Time to Tune in: There are some headlining freshmen in this contest. The Buckeyes come in with Tory Vetter, and the Razorbacks will debut Leah Smith and Mackenzie Sedlacek. All three have the potential to be game changers for their team.

Need More Proof? Don’t miss Ohio State’s Jenna Hlavach on vault or fan-favorite Claire Gagliardi on floor. Arkansas’ Sdelacek recently stuck her Yurchenko 1.5 on the team’s social media. 2022 also marks the beginning of sixth-year Maggie O’Hara’s farewell tour, so look for her to push for an elusive perfect 10.0 on bars and/or beam.