Arkansas Takes No. 3 Seed and Leading Odds into CWS Opener Against LSU

OMAHA, Neb. — The Arkansas Razorbacks are entering the College World Series with momentum and widespread belief behind them. Ranked as the No. 3 overall seed in this year’s tournament, Arkansas also holds the shortest odds to win it all, listed at +195. Their first test comes tonight against a familiar foe from the SEC: the LSU Tigers.

This marks the Razorbacks’ fifth CWS appearance under head coach Dave Van Horn, and optimism surrounding this squad is as strong as ever. Coming off a dominant sweep in the Super Regionals over Oregon, Arkansas is a team that looks ready for a title run — and betting markets agree.

Their Super Regional success was a showcase of power, poise, and precision. Star pitcher Brady Tygart silenced Oregon’s offense, while hitters like Kendall Diggs, Peyton Holt, and Jace Bohrofen led a potent offense. Every element of Arkansas’s game seems to be firing at full capacity.

Sportsbooks have taken note. With odds at +195, the Hogs are now the top favorites to win their first national championship. SEC rivals like Tennessee and Texas A&M follow closely behind, but it’s Van Horn’s squad leading the pack.

This is what we’ve worked toward all year,” Van Horn said after their Super Regional triumph. “The key is to stay focused and support one another through every moment.”

Their first opponent in Omaha is a battle-hardened LSU team led by Jay Johnson. LSU advanced after a thrilling Super Regional win over North Carolina and arrives ready to prove themselves. Despite not being a top-eight national seed, the Tigers bring a powerful lineup, including big bats like Tommy White and Tre’ Morgan.

Arkansas and LSU are no strangers. Their regular-season series this year was closely contested, with both sides displaying strength on the mound and at the plate. The familiarity only adds to the intensity of tonight’s clash.

Brady Tygart is slated to take the mound for Arkansas. With a dominant postseason and a recent ERA just above 1.00, he’ll be a critical factor. The bullpen has provided steady backup, and the defense has come through in critical moments all season.

Offensively, the Razorbacks boast a well-balanced approach. Diggs has been a reliable RBI machine, while Holt and Bohrofen bring consistent power and clutch hits. Their ability to break down opposing pitchers late in games has been a defining trait.

Being the favorite doesn’t mean anything once you’re out there,” he said. “It’s about focus, discipline, and execution. And LSU’s a dangerous team.”

Razorback Nation has responded in full force, flooding Omaha with fans eager to see their team make history. For a program that’s come agonizingly close — especially in 2018’s heartbreaking finals loss — the hunger is undeniable.