Hatcher Thriving With Razorbacks

When Keon Hatcher was a senior at Owasso, he said this about his decision to play at Arkansas:

“SEC, I mean that's really like one step below the NFL, so that's everybody's dream to play at a Division I college,” Hatcher said.

Now a junior, he's dealing with life in the rugged SEC West.

“It's the SEC, you get to play against the best,” Hatcher said. “I feel like that's what gets a lot of guys coming here. They feel like if they can play against the best and succeed, then they can make it to the NFL.”

Hatcher is already on track to have his best season in a Razorback uniform. He leads the team in receiving yards and has three touchdowns.

“I'm so excited for Keon, I love that kid,” Arkansas coach Bret Bielema said. “I called him a teacher's pet and he got mad. He just does everything we ask him to do.”

Now Hatcher stayed true to his commitment coming out of Owasso. Oklahoma State gave him a late offer. But he's made a lot of great plays here at Razorback stadium. One thing's held true, after every game, his mother is there.

“My mom comes to every game,” Hatcher said. “She tries to make every single game whether it's home or away.”

And when he does go home, he's reminded of some other football friends from the area. He mentions Tyler Lockett, former Hog Alvin Bailey along with current Hogs Jared Collins and Austin Beck. They all achieved their dream of playing major college ball.

“When we get out there, we just try to show that we can compete,” Hatcher said. “918, we got talent there to.”

And Hatcher still goes back to Owasso and gets a warm reception. Of course, this week, Owasso faces Union. His Rams team broke Union's 94-game district winning streak. He'll be a fan through social media.

“Oh yes, definitely, you know, my senior year that was one of the best games of my life,” Hatcher said. “So I'm definitely going to keep a look out on that game.”

So from the 918, to Hog Heaven, Hatcher is making his presence known.