Pittman faces a critical choice: The time has come for him to make a key decision regarding the quarterback position, a decision that could significantly impact the rest of the season.

FAYETTEVILLE — In a few days, Arkansas coach Sam Pittman will need to make a firm decision that could shape the remainder of the season. His choice will likely have a lasting impact.

Earlier this week, Pittman mentioned that Taylen Green is dealing with a bone bruise. For those unfamiliar, this is a traumatic injury that requires significant rest to heal. While less severe than a fracture, it can often be more painful in the long run. Blood and fluid accumulate around the injured bone, causing pain and swelling.

Recovery depends on the severity and could range from a couple of weeks to several. It’s the kind of injury that requires staying off the affected area until fully healed.

If Green isn’t at 100% by Monday, which is unlikely, the wisest move for the season’s success would be to rest him for the week. Green could mentor Singleton while doing film work on Mississippi State. Singleton needs all the practice reps he can get to develop chemistry with his center and receivers.

Green’s effectiveness hinges on his ability to run, something he won’t be able to do until fully recovered. Now that he’s playing in the SEC rather than the Mountain West, the margin for error is much smaller. SEC defenders are faster, making it harder for Green to avoid tackles.

When fully healthy, Green can elude defenders and create plays, but even a small decrease in speed could turn those potential big plays into losses. This would force offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino to rely on Green as a pocket passer, which isn’t his strength.

Green thrives when he’s mobile. In the pocket, he tends to get anxious, often leaving too early or overthinking, which affects his accuracy. A bone bruise would make it even harder for him to step into his throws, a weakness he’s already shown at times, resulting in passes sailing high.

Singleton, while not as tall or fast as Green, is the better pocket passer. He also has decent running ability. Though Tennessee allowed him to score on the game-winning play, he displayed speed and quickness that will challenge defenses.

Ideally, Green would return after two weeks of film work and a full week of practice at full speed. But if the choice is between a limited Green or a fully-prepared Singleton, the latter is the better option. There’s no reason to risk turning this into a nagging injury.

The Razorbacks could secure a couple of wins with Singleton at the helm, allowing Green to return in time for Mississippi State. However, if Green plays while still limited, it could not only lead to a loss against LSU but also jeopardize the Mississippi State game.

Patience could yield big rewards, while panic could derail the season. Pittman’s decision will be crucial, and the outcome, whether good or bad, rests entirely on his shoulders.