Ugh. The Hogs just can’t get over the hump.

After playing about 39 minutes of good basketball against 24th ranked LSU and leading by as many as 18 points in the first half, the Hogs couldn’t hang on to beat the Tigers, losing 73-69.

Courtney Fortson returned to the lineup after a one game suspension, and scored 17 points, all in the second half. Rotnei Clarke also added 17 points on 6-8 shooting.

The Razorbacks had some success creating steals in the first half with a full court press that clearly rattled the Tigers. But LSU battled back and closed the Razorbacks’ big early lead just 6 at the half.

The Hogs regained control in the second half, leading by as many as 9 with under 10 minutes to play, but LSU was too strong inside (they almost beat Michael Washington to death) for the Razorbacks. LSU out-rebounded the Hogs 41-34 for the game, including grabbing two crucial offensive rebounds after missed free throws in the final minute.

In other words, the Hogs are kinda screwed this year. Anyone think we can win 4 games in four days in the SEC tournament?

Player of the game: Marcus Thornton. He plays for LSU.