More Pre-Season Honors For Basketball Hogs

Hogwired.com: Brewer Named to Two All-America Teams; Modica and Townes Named All-SEC

Arkansas junior Ronnie Brewer has picked up a few more preseason honors, including mention on two All-America teams, while teammates Jonathon Modica and Darian Townes are receiving attention as well.

Also:

Ronnie Brewer Receiving Pre-Season Attention

Practice Reports - 9/29/2005

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Put Wraps On Off Week

Nutt also expressed the idea that true freshman wide receiver Rod Coleman might come out of redshirt. With Chris Baker still struggling to come back from a sprained knee, Coleman would provide the Razorbacks with needed speed at wide out.

"We looked hard today at Rod Coleman," Nutt said. "Since we don't think we are going to have Chris Baker now, we need one more speed receiver. I hate to take the redshirt off him, but we gave him a lot of looks today. He may be one guy that can help us at wide receiver because of his speed, so we have to look at him real close."

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: Thursday Grid Update, 9/29 (subscription)
Mike Capshaw: Razorbacks May Get 'Hot Rod' Revved Up
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Report

Updated 9/30/05 9:55 p.m. - Added additional links.

Hogs Basketball Schedule Changes

Hogwired.com: Hurricane Katrina, Television Arrangements Force Changes to Arkansas Basketball Schedule

Hurricane Katrina has forced a change in the Arkansas basketball schedule for this year while television arrangements have resulted in new start times for a few other games.

The Razorbacks were scheduled to face Xavier-New Orleans in an exhibition game on Nov. 12, but due to the hurricane, head coach Stan Heath's staff was forced to line up a new opponent. The Hogs will now face LSU-Shreveport in an exhibition game, which is still set for Nov. 12. Game time will be set once a time for UA's football game at Ole Miss on the same day has been determined.

Complete 2005-06 Basketball Schedule

Hillis To Defense?

From tonight's Razorback Nation, Hogs running back Peyton Hillis says he has talked to the coaches about moving to defense next year.

Hillis: "There hasn't been a move from the coaches. It's just a consideration of mine for next year. I talked to Coach Herring about it and he was just like, 'Well let's play this year out and then we'll see what happens after that.'

So I'm going to finish this year out and play hard at fullback and tailback and then see what happens after this year."

Matt Turner: You're such a talented running back. Why would you even consider moving to the defensive side of the ball?

Hillis: "Well...I don't know. I guess I'm just thinking that I feel like I can play a little linebacker so why not just try a position there? Just see how I fit at it. I always know I can come back and play on offense."

Matt Turner: How much experience do you have at defense? Have you ever played?

Hillis: "I played in middle school and high school at linebacker. As I look at it out here, the speed is different and you have to be a little more physical. But I don't think it's something I can't handle."

Practice Reports - 9/28/2005

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Use Open Date to Improve and Prepare for ULM

As Arkansas approaches its first open date the Hogs have extra time to begin preparations for the Louisiana-Monroe game on Oct. 8.

"We got some good work with the Louisiana-Monroe preparations and we're trying to get better each day," Nutt said. "We've already got them broken down and we're into it pretty good. We'll watch it again, but they'll probably do most of the same things. Offensively, they change two or three formations each week, so we've got to expect that."

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgSports.com: Hogs putting in La.-Monroe game plan (subscription)
HawgsIllustrated.com: Wednesday Grid Update, 9/28 (subscription)
Robbie Neiswanger: Taking A Shot
Grant Hall: Hogs Look At All Four Quarterbacks
Nate Allen: Coaches turn up the heat on Johnson at UA practice
Chris Cocoles: Razorbacks Report

Updated 9/29/05 9:25 a.m. - Added additional links.

SEC Football Conference Call - 9/28/2005

SECSports.com: 2005 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference - 09/28/2005

Houston Nutt:

(On Georgia's impressive road record) "Whenever you go on the road in the SEC, it takes a mindset and focus and attention to detail. That's the thing that sticks out for Georgia. Along with experience, that allows you to execute under pressure. To be able to stay focused and have a belief in your teammates that you will get the job done and quiet that crowd. You do that by executing."

(On rebuilding the season) "We are going one practice at a time and one game at a time. You take this open week to get better. You take it one game at a time and try to win the rest of them."

Free Pass? (2)

So, is this year free? Even after the losses to Vanderbilt, USC and Alabama? ...more...

Practice Reports - 9/27/2005

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Get Good Look at Young Talent on Tuesday

The Hogs spent the day correcting mistakes from last Saturday's game with Alabama and getting the younger players a lot of work.

"We got the young guys a lot of good work today," Arkansas head coach Houston Nutt said. "We had a scrimmage between the true freshmen and the redshirt freshmen at the end of practice."
...
Several freshmen stood out during the 22-play scrimmage at the end of practice, including Rod Coleman, Casey Dick, De’Andre Bryant, Antwain Robinson, Kevin Thornton, Matt Harris and Matt Stoltz.

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas Grid Update, 9/27 (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Bye week kicks off with good practice (subscription)
Vernon Tarver: Brown Back At Practice, Anxious To Go
Grant Hall: Herring Commends Olajubutu's Play
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Report

Updated 9/28/05 10:05 a.m. - Added additional links.

Introducing Matt Jones

Bart Hubbach of The Florida Times-Union gives Jacksonville Jaguars fans a nice background story on their "rookie sensation," Matt Jones. Interestingly, the article details the politics of Van Buren that the local Arkansas media never really discussed during Matt's tenure with the Razorbacks.

Free Pass?

After Houston Dale had his fling with Nebraska and returned home to the open arms of Jim Lindsey and the Razorback faithful, the understanding that many gathered from Athletic Director Frank Broyles was that Houston Dale would have two years of grace. Is that still the case? ...more...

Monday Recap - 9/26/2005

Hogwired.com: McFadden, Olajubutu and Balseiro Picked as Hogwired.com Athletes of the Week

Freshman tailback Darren McFadden, junior linebacker Sam Olajubutu and senior kicker Chris Balseiro were each named Hogwired.com Players of Week after their quality performances against Southeastern Conference opponent Alabama.

Also:

Houston Nutt Press Conference - 9/25/2005

ARSN: Razorback Report
Robbie Neiswanger: No Passing Fancy
Mike Capshaw: Nutt Gets Much-Needed Lift
Nate Allen: McFadden banged up in Bama loss and Despite loss, Hogs defense improves against Tide
Scott Cain: Nutt: Fixing offense 'will be easy'
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Game Wrap
Rick Schaffer: Closer But Still Searching
Mobile Register: Pigheaded Hogs and Shula: Give Hogs some credit

Updated 9/26/05 4:10 p.m. - Added additional links.

My Thoughts - Alabama

It's nice to be complaining about the "usual stuff" again. With the defense being so obviously the problem for the previous two games, there was very little need to be concerned about what I call "the usual": lackluster and predictable playcalling, poor offensive execution, running on third down too much, taking no chances either down field or into the end zone...the typical Houston Nutt coaching inadequacies. Watching those things cause us to lose another game yesterday felt as normal as going home to a warm bed.

Sometimes having too much talent is a bad thing. Don't get me wrong...I love all of our running backs and have no doubt that we'll need something from every one of them this year (including the punt block contribution made yesterday by senior running back Kyle Dickerson). But the amount of quality depth has caused a lot of second guessing. Questions like "Why didn't Felix Jones play against Vanderbilt?" And then yesterday, "Why did Darren McFadden only carry the ball nine times?" And so when McFadden turned a very simple off tackle play into a game-changing 70 yard touchdown, Hog fans were once again left to wonder what "could've been."

He may be the best quarterback we've got, but I still wish we would try one of the others. And if you're going to give someone else a chance, a bye week followed by a game against Louisiana-Monroe would seem to be the time to try. And for those who say we shouldn't question playing this quarterback after an 11 for 26, 81 yard passing game with an interception and a lost fumble, I have to disagree. If we hadn't benched Zak Clark and gave Matt Jones a try in 2001, we wouldn't have had that 1-3 to Cotton Bowl turnaround that Houston is talking up a lot at the moment.

Poor clock and timeout management have become all too common with this team and this coach. The "drive" to end the first half was a complete mess and a wasted opportunity. And there's no excuse to have to keep burning timeouts every game because the wrong personnel are on the field or worse, because the head coach can't make up his mind what play to call. And right now, it might be a good idea for Houston to take responsibility for his mistakes as often as he (indirectly) blames the players for their penalties and mistakes.

Putting Peyton Hillis at punt returner is just an attempt to keep him happy. He's not the best punt returner we have...Felix Jones already proved that at USC and there was no reason to replace him with Hillis at the end of that game. During the game yesterday, Hillis looked uncomfortable and let several punts hit the ground that should have been caught. Unfortunately, Hillis' expected role of all-purpose Mr. Everything hasn't panned out and putting him at punt returner just looks to be a move by the coaches to keep him from being unhappy.

Finally, even though I really do want to completely forget last week, I have to ask: Is it a good thing that Frank Broyles bragged that he only received three letters after the Hogs lost by 53 points? To me, that shows complete apathy by the fan base...NOT that they support the coach. Maybe that's what Frank wants? Maybe he knows that fan apathy is the only way he can keep his promise to Houston of a two year free pass? Either way, there's no doubt in my mind that apathy is where the fans of this program are right now.

Houston Nutt Press Conference - 9/25/2005

Hogwired.com: Houston Nutt's Sunday Press Conference

"Our offensive line blocked really well at times, and boy at times we missed some. Then Robert (Johnson) missed some throws that he normally doesn't miss. He is going to learn from that and he is going to get better. We are better than that offensively, and we have to get that corrected. I think the first three games we had two maybe three penalties offensively, and yesterday we had seven. That is the most upsetting thing offensively, the way we stopped ourselves. We can't stop ourselves. We could have scored a couple of more times."

Offensive Situation

I took a few minutes with the unofficial play-by-play and compiled a few stats about the Arkansas offense against Alabama. ...more...

Post-Game Reports - Alabama 24, Arkansas 13

Robbie Neiswanger: Bummer In 'Bama
Mike Capshaw: Hogs Freshmen Solid Against Stingy Defense
Grant Hall: Hogs' Defense Plays Much Better
Clay Henry: Tide Employs Lonesome End
Bob Holt: Passing the blame
Nate Allen: Stopped short
Rob Keys: Hogs’ offense is no surprise to Tide and Someone check Hogs’ offense for a pulse
Chris Givens: UA defense a bust on late TD
Scott Cain: Alabama offense shifts away from pass
Otis Kirk: Defense swallows Hogs QB
Democrat-Gazette: Instant Replay
Wally Hall: Razorbacks are paying a price for giveaways
Terry Wood: Alabama forced inexperienced Johnson into costly mistakes
The Huntsville Times: Arkansas finds no consolation in staying close
Al.com: Alabama Football

Updated 9/25/05 9:55 a.m. - Added additional links.

Hogs are Rolled Over – Quick Thoughts

Much better performance on defense. Outside linebacker still ran out of a couple of running plays on one series just as he did against USC – which basically gave Alabama a touchdown drive – but all in all the defense played well enough for us to win. The 10 men on the field thing on the last touchdown was a little embarrassing, but hey, I guess you can only be so organized after letting 40 seconds run off the clock followed by a full time-out before you line up.

Special teams, for the most part, pretty good. Peyton Hillis needs a bit of coaching on lining up for punts when the punter has a 20 mph wind at his back. It was good to see a punt block at a key time. A touchdown following would’ve been nice, but in reality was a lot to expect.

I know Alabama has a good defense, but our offensive line obviously can’t pass block. Our offensive coordinator obviously can’t put together a game plan that effectively manages our strengths and weaknesses. Between the two, the quarterback was basically put into impossible situations. For those of you waiting for the arrival of Mitch Mustain – urgent memo – he is not going to do any better in this offense.

By the way, Corso on ESPN said today that “USC hasn’t played anyone yet.”

I’m just glad we stayed in the game with them. Apparently our program should have the near term goal of just becoming “someone” again.

Alabama 24, Arkansas 13

Hogwired.com: Late Interception Spoils Hog Upset Bid at No. 20 Alabama

Arkansas’ defense turned in its best performance of the season and the Razorbacks had a chance to win at No. 20 Alabama on Saturday, but the Crimson Tide got a game-turning play from its defense in holding off the Razorbacks, 24-13.

Down 17-3, and with Kenneth Darby and the Alabama offense appearing to wear down the Razorbacks, Darren McFadden’s 70-yard touchdown run sparked the Hogs and put Arkansas in position to pull off the upset.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Final Stats (PDF), Postgame Notes and Postgame Quotes
HawgsIllustrated.com: Alabama 24, Arkansas 13 (subscription)
ESPN.com: Alabama 24, Arkansas 13
SI.com: Play-by-Play
AP Photos: Robert Johnson, Darren McFadden
The Razorback Legacy (Photos): Alabama (L) 24-13

Updated 9/24/05 11:05 p.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. Alabama

Hogwired.com: Arkansas-Alabama Game Notes

* Arkansas and Alabama will meet for the 16th time in school history this weekend. Alabama leads the series 8-7. Arkansas holds a 7-6 edge in the series since the Razorbacks joined the SEC in 1992.

* Arkansas will be looking for its third-consecutive victory over Alabama this weekend. The Razorbacks won 27-10 last year in Fayetteville and 34-31 in double-overtime in 2003 in Tuscaloosa. Since 1994, neither Arkansas or Alabama has recorded as many as three consecutive wins over its SEC Western Division rival.

Also:

JP Sports: Live Game Video
Hogwired.com: Arkansas-Alabama Game Notes (PDF)
ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsSports.com: Hogs fit to beat Tide? (subscription)
Democrat-Gazette: Razorback Game Day
Bob Holt: Tuscaloosa next stop on tough tour and Position-by-position matchups
Nate Allen: Houston native Graham doesn’t make Alabama trip with Hogs
Robbie Neiswanger: Hogs Hoping To Bounce Back After USC Debacle and Backup LB Graham Not Available For Game
The Morning News: Head To Head
Rick Schaeffer: Turning Point Needed
Hogwired.com: Razorzone (subscription) and 2005 Roster & Bios

Practice Reports - 9/22/2005

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Ready for Trip to Alabama

"We had a good offensive plan last week before Robert (Johnson) got hurt," Nutt said. "We had some good running lanes and the backs were hitting the hole. We had a good screen on the first play, and then we hit Marcus Monk on a fade.

"What we have to do is be more consistent and don't stop drives. Don't drop balls. Don't have illegal procedures. And keep everybody healthy."

Several Razorbacks will miss the first SEC road game of the season with injuries. Along the offensive line Jonathan Luigs and Zac Tubbs are definitely out with LB Pierre Brown and CB Darius Vinnett missing the game on the defensive side of the ball. Tight end Jared Hicks is close to returning to action with the coaching staff planning to get him some playing time on Saturday.

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: Thursday Grid Update, 9/22 (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Ready for Bama? (subscription)
Mike Capshaw: McFadden, Jones Could Get Start
Nate Allen: UA sacrifices protection for speed with freshman duo
Rob Keys: Choosing back is chore for UA
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Report

Updated 9/23/05 1:25 p.m. - Added additional links.

This Feels Different

Ivan Maisel of ESPN comments on Razorback coach Houston Nutt:

This feels different. Arkansas lost five of its last seven last season, missing a bowl for the first time in Nutt's tenure. Three of the next four games are against ranked opponents: at No. 20 Alabama on Saturday, Auburn on Oct. 15, and at No. 7 Georgia on Oct. 22.

While much is being made of the support shown in the press by Coach Broyles, let us not forget what was going on a while back when the HogBlogger was a young blogger. From the archives... Houston Dale, we have a problem.

Moving On

If you’ve ever played or coached organized sports for any length of time you probably have experienced the feeling of getting “blown out”. It is not a fun thing. ...more...

A Trip Down Memory Lane...To Misery

Oh Lord...is this what it's come to? Bob Holt of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette writes about the five worst losses in school history. Apparently we played the #3 game of this "humbled and humiliated" list in L.A. last Saturday night. Ugh...enough already.

Also:

Wally Hall: Bouncing back might be tough for UA this time
Hog Calls: Calling Out The Hogs

Practice Reports - 9/21/2005

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Gears up for Tide Defense

The Alabama Crimson Tide is leading the Southeastern Conference and rank second nationally in rushing defense, so the Hogs' running game will face a challenge.

"We're getting ready to play the best defense so far we've played against," Nutt said. "They've given up the fewest yardage. Joe Kines has this team running to the ball and they're playing with a lot of confidence. They've given up very few big plays and they're chasing the ball extremely well and breaking on the football."

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgSports.com: A new beginning? (subscription)
HawgsIllustrated.com: Wednesday Grid Report, 9/21 (subscription)
Nate Allen: Vinnett, Brown likely to sit against Tide
Chris Cocoles: Razorbacks Report
Grant Hall: Morgan To Start For Hogs Against Alabama

Updated 9/22/05 8:30 a.m. - Added additional links.

This Year...And Next

KFSM Video: Broyles says Nutt will be Coach this year...and Next

In an exclusive interview with KFSM, University of Arkansas Athletic Director Frank Broyles says head football coach Houston Nutt will remain the university's coach this year and next.
...
Broyles told 5 News Sports Director Mike Irwin that he expects the University of Arkansas will win championships under Nutt's leadership and that he remains fully behind the coach.

SEC Football Conference Call - 9/21/2005

SECSports.com: SEC Football Coaches Press Conference - 09/21/2005

Houston Nutt:

(On facing Alabama) "After a tough weekend, we got back on the field and had a good day of practice yesterday. Guys had good spirits and good attitudes and they were ready to go back to work today."

(On confidence of the team) "Anytime that you lose and you lose the way we did, there is going to be a confidence factor problem. They only way to cure that is to get back on the field and get better and move on."

(On USC's offense) "If you look around and you see that they scored 55 against Oklahoma and they had Arizona State down 35 to 7, I don't think there is a way you can stop them. As long as Matt Leinart is healthy and Reggie Bush is healthy there isn't a way. I just don't see it."

Mike Shula:

(On facing Arkansas) "We had a pretty good practice yesterday. We are nicked up, but not too bad. We have to be ready, because we have an emotional Arkansas team coming in here."

About the Defense

Coach Broyles has come out again in support of Houston Dale. Reggie Herring has used the word “embarrassed”. I was glad to hear that word being used. Things happened we should’ve been embarrassed about. Other things happened because... ...more...

Practice Reports - 9/20/2005

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Turn Focus to Alabama

Arkansas QB Robert Johnson left the Southern California game in the second quarter with headaches and a sore back, but returned to regular form on Tuesday afternoon. Nutt was encouraged by his effort and expects him to be ready to go by game day.

"Robert Johnson is doing really well right now,” Nutt said. “He's a little sore and bruised, but he's tough and he's fighting through it. It was more his back, but he doesn't have any headaches today."

Reggie Herring on Razorback Nation:

"I took this job...nobody twisted my arm. And the easiest thing to do, like I said, would be quit or get fired. That would be doing me a favor. The hard part is we've got to get this thing turned around...and I was hired to do that...and we're going to bow up and get it done.

And if we don't, won't nobody have to ask me to leave, I'll leave before the words can come out of their mouth. But I was put here to do a job...these coaches...these players...and we're going to see this thing through."

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgSports.com: Bow up and fight (subscription)
HawgsIllustrated.com: Tuesday Grid Update, 9/20 (subscription)
Robbie Neiswanger: Defense Plans To Fight Through Embarrassment and Nutt: Two Weeks Toughest of Career
Vernon Tarver: Hicks Tired Of Injuries, Bench
Nate Allen: Herring calls for turnaround; Broyles voices support for Nutt
Bob Holt: Broyles: Nutt man for the job and A tough transformation
Scott Cain: Hogs say mind-set is OK after blowout
Chris Cocoles: Razorbacks Report

Updated 9/21/05 9:15 a.m. - Added additional links.

Tuesday Preview - 9/20/2005

Hogwired.com: Arkansas-Alabama Game Notes

Arkansas returns to Southeastern Conference play this weekend when the Razorbacks travel to Tuscaloosa, Ala., to battle the Alabama Crimson Tide. The Razorbacks (1-2, 0-1 SEC) will be looking to rebound after consecutive losses to Vanderbilt (24-28) and No. 1 Southern California (17-70).

Alabama (3-0, 1-0 SEC) is coming off an impressive 37-14 win over South Carolina last weekend at Columbia, S.C. The Crimson Tide also own wins over Middle Tennessee (26-7) and Southern Mississippi (30-21) this season.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Arkansas-Alabama Game Notes (PDF)
Robbie Neiswanger: Brown Wants Back On Field
Jerry L. Reed: High Expectations Being Realized At 'Bama
Nate Allen: Hogs' Johnson good to go on Saturday and Brown hopes return will inspire Hogs defense
Scott Cain: Shula giving Tide players the lowdown on letdown
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Report
Huntsville Times: Nutt's pigs in slop
Mobile Register: Nutt trying to be positive after USC demolishes Hogs

Updated 9/20/05 6:40 p.m. - Added additional links.

Monday Recap - 9/19/2005

Hogwired.com: McFadden, Olajubutu and Jones Named Hogwired.com Players of the Week

Freshman tailback Darren McFadden, junior linebacker Sam Olajubutu and freshman tailback/kick returner Felix Jones were each named Hogwired.com Players of Week after showing strong individual efforts against defending national champion Southern California.

Also:

Houston Nutt Press Conference - 9/18/2005

ARSN: Razorback Report
AP: Razorbacks try to recover after rout and Nutt: No. 20 Alabama something to look forward to after USC trouncing
Nate Allen: Razorbacks must regroup for road trip to Alabama and Hogs look to get back up after USC knockout
Bob Holt: UA's Nutt: 'It's a terrible feeling'
Scott Cain: Practice makes perfect for USC
Rob Keys: Hogs have no answers on defense
Doug Crise: Razorback Replay
Otis Kirk: UA freshmen don’t shy from 'best'
Jerry L. Reed: Hogs Revisit Aftermath Of Nightmare Loss
Mike Capshaw: Mortensen Fills In After Johnson's Injury
Rick Schaeffer: A Shellacking To Say The Least

Updated 9/19/05 10:30 p.m. - Added additional links.

Razorzone Worth It?

Ever since the new Hogwired.com launched earlier this month, many Hog fans have been wondering if they would get their money's worth out of the new Razorzone subscription plan. In the aftermath of the past two football games, it sure seems like now that the older free site should make a comeback. ;-)

But all kidding aside, Rob Keys recently asked the UA Sports Information Department about the new paid subscription plan and then did a comparison against other SEC schools. His conclusion? "Arkansas' new pay system for Internet broadcasts of its football games don't appear to be in line with a growing trend nationwide."

My Thoughts - USC

It's just hard to imagine how badly we were beaten last night. I don't really have a whole lot to add over the frustrations that HogBlogger wrote earlier today. And unlike the last two games, I have a feeling that many people reading this post probably saw (at least part of) the game on TV last night. But, with apologies for stating the obvious, here goes...

The defense is worse than last year. It's hard for me to admit that because I like Reggie Herring's "old school" coaching style. But they obviously are...you can't have USC score more on you than they do on Hawaii. The boys from Honolulu have been the gold standard of bad defense for years. Now we are close to being the Hawaii of the SEC...without the high-powered offense.

And speaking of our defensive coordinator, he continues to show a stubbornness during games that is disappointing. This was a concern I mentioned last week, and there was no improvement last night. Every time we blitzed, we were burned. When we finally decided to call off the blitz, we were already down 21 points. When things don't work, there's a reason. If you don't adjust quickly, it's just about a certainty they'll keep happening. And it's taken Reggie Herring way too long to make the obvious adjustments during the past two games.

Shouldn't an offensive line ranked ninth in the country during the preseason be able to look like it even against a highly-rated (maybe number one) defense? I guess not because we were pushed around by the USC defensive line all night. Yes, I know we led the nation in rushing going into this weekend. But for anyone who watched the game last night, did we look like we even belonged on the line of scrimmage with USC? And if not for a long kickoff return, we only move the ball enough to score three points in the first half. That's just unacceptable for a team whose supposed "strength" before the season was its "veteran offensive line."

The "grace period" was two years...and now we can see why. After the Houston Nutt-Nebraska flirtation, HDN got a big raise and a two year "get out of jail free" card. But, three games into the second year, does anyone see how we're going to be completely different (and much improved) next year? Will an All-American quarterback recruit make that much difference? Do you recover from two losing seasons to win 8 or 9 games the next year? Well, I guess the 1998 Razorbacks did...but that was after a coaching change.

I've been out of town all week at a conference in Los Angeles. I want to thank HogBlogger for posting regularly during the week and also thank you, the readers of this blog, for your patience as some information was posted (by me) later than normal.

I know there were many times during the week when I wished I was back here listening to all the debate. I can tell you that there was hardly any mention of the Hogs by the L.A. television and print media all week long. And you know, it really is disappointing to be so down that you're not considered a interesting matchup by the other team. (Oklahoma, by contrast, received quite a bit of coverage for their game against UCLA.) And so you may be asking...why didn't I stay an extra day for the game? Well, when I was making my travel plans back in late July, I considered it...for a moment...and then I came to my senses. Now, of course, I'm glad that I did.

Houston Nutt Press Conference - 9/18/2005

Hogwired.com: Houston Nutt Press Conference Transcript

"We've got to forget about that one in a hurry. We'll have a team meeting today. We're not going to work out today, because we got in at about 7 o'clock this morning. We'll hit the training room, because we've got some guys with bumps and bruises.

"Now is when you find out about character and we'll really call on our seniors. We've got to somehow bury that one and you have to go. We've got a long season ahead and this week we're right back in the SEC. It's a tough Alabama team that has a lot of confidence now."
...
On the defense:

"I think they out executed us. We were in two-deep a lot of times and they would throw it over our heads and that can't happen. The thing that's most disappointing is to be able to score that quick. To give up a one-play, a two-play drive, that's what can't happen.

Oh Well -- What'd Ya Expect?

It’s good we have “Arkansas” on the front of the jerseys now. Sort of completes the “directional school” feel to our football program that we have going on. ...more...

Post-Game Reports - USC 70, Arkansas 17

Hogwired.com: Top-Ranked Trojans Too Tough for Razorbacks

Top-ranked Southern California clicked on all cylinders on offense as the Trojans cruised to a 70-17 victory over Arkansas at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum late Saturday.

Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Matt Leinart was sharp and tailback Reggie Bush was everywhere as USC scored 28 points in the first quarter, led 42-10 at the half and generated 736 yards of total offense for the game, a school record for a UA opponent.

Also:

Robbie Neiswanger: California Nightmare
Mike Capshaw: Jones Sparks UA's Offense Early
Clay Henry: Trojans Are The Real Deal
Bob Holt: Starstruck
Scott Cain: Instant Replay
Chris Cocoles: Loyal Arkansas fans gather in Los Angeles
Wally Hall: Southern California offense simply the best

Updated 9/18/05 10:50 a.m. - Added additional links.

USC 70, Arkansas 17

ARSN: Arkansas - Southern Cal Post Game Notes

* USC led 42-10 at the half, the most points Arkansas has allowed in a half since the first half at Tennessee on Nov. 11, 2000, when the Volunteers led 42-14 at the break in a 63-20 setback.

* The 70 points USC scored are the most Arkansas has allowed since Oct. 19, 1918, when Arkansas lost 103-0 to Oklahoma.

* Southern California’s 736 yards of total offense are the most Arkansas has ever allowed. The previous best for an opponent was 613 by Houston in 1990.

Also:

ARSN: Arkansas - Southern Cal Post Game Quotes
HawgsIllustrated.com: USC 70, Arkansas 17 (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Visit to the woodshed (subscription)
ESPN.com: USC 70, Arkansas 17
SI.com: Play-By-Play
The Razorback Legacy (Photos): Southern California (L) 70-17

Updated 9/19/05 1:25 p.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. USC

Hogwired.com: Arkansas-USC Game Notes

For the first time since 1998, Arkansas will take the field against the No. 1 team in the country. The Razorbacks travel to Los Angeles to battle the two-time defending national champion USC Trojans.

USC (1-0) had an open date after pounding Hawaii 63-17 in the season opener on Sept. 3. The Trojans have won 23-consecutive games dating back to Oct. 4, 2003. California was the last team to defeat USC.

Arkansas is coming off a home conference loss to Vanderbilt (28-24). The Razorbacks are 1-1 with the victory coming in the season opener against Missouri State. The last time the Razorbacks battled the No. 1 team in the nation was in 1998 when the Hogs lost a 28-24 decision to Tennessee at Knoxville.

Very cool...Hogwired.com now has a PDF version of the weekly game notes. It's available here.

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: State of the Hogs: No. 1 SC
HawgSports.com: Taking on the champs (subscription)
Democrat-Gazette: Razorback Game Day
Robbie Neiswanger: Arkansas Embracing Rare Opportunity
The Morning News: Key Matchup and Head To Head
Rick Schaeffer: It's Not Impossible
Hogwired.com: Razorzone (subscription) and 2005 Roster & Bios

Live, From LA, It's...

Can the Arkansas Razorbacks line up and play with the USC Trojans?

Not according to the Vegas line. “Only in your dreams” would be an appropriate non-numerical way of describing the Vegas line.

Can we play with them? Yes, if we... ...more...

Practice Reports - 9/15/2005

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Wrap Up Preparations; Travel to Los Angeles

"We had a good sharp Thursday with good concentration," Arkansas head coach Houston Nutt said. "USC presents a lot of different problems, because they're so multiple and very talented, but I like our guys' mindsets and now it's time to go."
...
"The SEC prepares you for a lot of things," Nutt said. "The athleticism, the fans, the tailgating and all the atmosphere. We're used to whatever they're going to have. It's not any different than us going to Konxville, Florida or Georgia."

USC and Arkansas will face each other in the L.A. Memorial Coliseum. Fox Sports Net has moved back the official kick off time to 9:23 p.m. CT, but will still broadcast the game nationally.

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: Thursday Grid Report, 9/15 (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Loaded up, ready to go (subscription)
Nate Allen: Razorbacks make final preparations for No. 1 Trojans
Chris Bahn: Razorback Report
Scott Cain: Trojan Report
Vernon Tarver: Howard Leads Strong Running Attack

Updated 9/16/05 1:05 p.m. - Added additional links.

Ronnie Brewer Receiving Pre-Season Attention

Hogwired.com: Brewer Named SEC Preseason Player of the Year by Blue Ribbon and Appointed to NCAA SAAC Position

The top returning scorer in the Southeastern Conference this year (16.2 ppg) has been named the preseason conference Player of the Year by Blue Ribbon College Basketball Yearbook.
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The only first-team All-SEC pick back from last year, he is also on Blue Ribbon’s preseason all-conference first unit. Earlier this year, he was named to the preseason watch list for the Wooden Award, which annually goes to the top player in the country.
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Blue Ribbon also announced its predictions and picked Arkansas to finish second in the SEC’s Western Division behind Alabama and ahead of LSU, Ole Miss, Mississippi State and Auburn. In the Eastern Division, Blue Ribbon picked Kentucky first, followed by Vanderbilt, Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia.

Joining Brewer on the preseason all-conference team are guards C.J. Watson of Tennessee and Rajon Rondo of Kentucky, and forwards Chuck Davis of Alabama and Glen Davis of LSU.

"Midnight Madness" Now At 7 p.m.

Hogwired.com: First Razorback Basketball Practice Set for October 14

"We are encouraging our fans to come out and watch us at 7 p.m. on the Friday before the Auburn football game," he says. "It will give our fans a chance to get their first look at our squad. We are excited about the season and they will be able to see the enthusiasm and effort we will play with throughout the year.

"The activities we previously scheduled in conjunction with our first practice will take place before the Red-White Game. We look forward to signing autographs, shaking hands and meeting our fans."

Baseball Fall Practice Starts

Hogwired.com: Diamond Hogs Begin Fall Practice

"We are really just looking to shore up a few things in fall practice," Arkansas head coach Dave Van Horn said. "We need to find out who is going to make up our infield in certain spots, and who is going to help out in the bullpen. There are still some unanswered questions.

"We are starting fall practice a little earlier this season. We have a lot of young players, and I want to get them out on the field and evaluate them a little bit. I want to see what they look like as baseball players, not just what I am told about them athletically from workouts in the weight room and conditioning drills. We really want to get some skill instruction done and get out there and see these guys play."

This is a really nice, detailed article. Hopefully this is the type of content that will appear more for all sports on the new Hogwired.com.

Practice Reports - 9/14/2005

Hogwired.com: Hogs Put Finishing Touches on USC Practice Week

"The guys really flew around and executed and that is back-to-back days we have done a really good job of that," Arkansas Head Coach Houston Nutt said. "They have had good focus and good intensity and that is what it is going to take against a team like USC."

The opponent awaiting the Razorbacks this weekend is about as tough of a challenge as you can face in college football this season. USC enters the game with back-to-back national championships and a 23-game winning streak.

"USC is loaded up at every position," Nutt said. "They are a very talented and fast team. Reggie Bush is a guy that returns kicks, punts and they move him around everywhere on the offensive side of the football. He is a special, special athlete."

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: Wednesday Grid Report, 9-14 (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Looking out for No. 1 (subscription)
Nate Allen: Fairchild anxious for showtime at the Coliseum
Chris Cocoles: Razorbacks Report
Vernon Tarver: Fairchild Ready For First Start

Updated 9/15/05 9:25 a.m. - Added additional links.

Facing Number One

Bob Holt has a nice article about playing top ranked USC. It's only the 14th time in school history that the Hogs have faced the number one team in the country.

Practice Reports - 9/13/2005

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Keyed on Top-Ranked Trojans

The Arkansas coaching staff and players know that the key to their performance on Saturday is all about how they prepare and then perform.

"It is more about us," Nutt said. "Everybody has to do their job, go play at full speed and correct their mistakes. There was a lot of great effort Saturday; I mean a lot of great effort. But from now on we have to take advantage of the opportunities we have."

Nutt was pleased to see the return of right guard Zac Tubbs to the practice field on Tuesday. Tubbs has not practiced since suffering a high-ankle sprain in a preseason scrimmage. His availability for Saturday night's game is still in question.

"He (Tubbs) got some snaps today and I was really proud," Nutt said. "It was good to see him out there, and now I hope we can keep him out there."

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgSports.com: Nothing to lose (subscription)
HawgsIllustrated.com: Tuesday Grid Report, 9/13 (subscription)
Vernon Tarver: Brown Banged Up, Doubtful For Saturday
Nate Allen: Fairchild to start for injured Brown at USC
Rob Keys: Razorback Report
Scott Cain: Trojans Report

Updated 9/14/05 9:05 a.m. - Added additional links.

For The Defense

So, yesterday I said it was the offense, not the defense, that was the primary cause of the loss to Vanderbilt. Threads on some message boards said that it was clearly the defense. Here’s why I disagree. ...more...

Another Coaching Consultant?

Once again...on the day after...a plane landed in Arkansas. It was a successful former college head coach coming to the state after a disappointing Razorback loss to what was considered a "lesser opponent." But this time it wasn't Danny Ford after The Citadel landing in Fayetteville. It was Butch Davis after Vanderbilt landing in Little Rock...speaking to the local Touchdown Club.

Also:

ARSN Video: Former Hurricane, Browns coach Davis speaks at LR Touchdown Club
Wally Hall: Davis scores big points with Touchdown Club

Updated 9/13/05 5:30 p.m. - Added additional links.

Monday HogBlogger Thoughts

Two games down, we know more about this team and our coach. Film has been reviewed, press meetings have been had, message boards have been reviewed, sources have been questioned, so, some thoughts. ...more...

Monday Recap - 9/12/2005

Hogwired.com: Howard, Harrison and Skinner Named Hogwired.com Players of the Week

Howard earned offensive honors after he recorded a career-high 139 yards rushing against the Commodores. His longest gain of the night came on a 39-yard run in the first quarter that resulted in an Arkansas touchdown. The West Memphis, Tenn., native's previous best was 125 yards against Mississippi State last season. Howard's 139-yard effort marked his fifth 100-yard rushing performance of his career and he is now tied for 12th in UA's record book for career 100-yard rushing games.

Also:

Houston Nutt Press Conference - 9/11/2005

ARSN: Paul's Calls and Razorback Report
AP: Razorbacks lament missed chances
Robbie Neiswanger: Missed Opportunities Doom Hogs
Mike Capshaw: Nutt Not Second Guessing Decision
Nate Allen: The day after, Hogs’ loss to Vandy still stings and Loss to Vandy leaves bad taste in mouths of Hogs, fans
Scott Cain: Hogs have hands full this week
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Game Wrap
Terry Wood: Coming up short
Rick Schaeffer: A Heavy Loss

Updated 9/13/05 1:00 a.m. - Added additional links.

My Thoughts - Vanderbilt

There's too many problems to mention. Last week, I felt like I had a good handle on the things that were good and bad. This week I don't even know where to start.

My biggest issue with the head coach's decision making has hardly been discussed in the media or message boards. With 4:25 left in the third quarter and holding a four point lead, Arkansas faces a fourth down and 2 from the Vanderbilt 23 yard line. No problem, right? It's not fourth and inches and being up seven points is better than being up four. What? Calling a timeout? Why? Can't make up your mind again, Houston? You're going for it? Is that Tommy Tuberville down there? Let's see...you just got a momentum changing interception...your kicker nailed a 37 yarder earlier in the game...and now it's just three yards further. Instead we run a poorly executed option and lose yardage...turnover on downs. And since Vanderbilt wouldn't have had to go for two later on, those three points eliminated by the coach are the difference between losing the game...and your job...and going into overtime with at least a chance to keep the faithful from revolting.

We blitzed way too much in this game. I'm not down on Coach Herring yet like some people. But when your head continues to get bloodied after banging it against the wall over and over, you need to try something else. It was obvious at the beginning of the fourth quarter that we were having little if any major effect on Jay Cutler's effectiveness with the blitz. In fact, a few of the times when we didn't "send the house," the defensive line actually got a decent pass rush. Either way, when you're ahead by 11 points to begin the fourth quarter, shouldn't you adjust your defensive strategy to be a little less risky? In short, I'll be hoping to see better in-game adjustments as Coach Herring learns more about the...uh...strengths of his squad.

I've always said that statistics are for losers. And 11 total yards on 8 plays of offense in the fourth quarter are statistics for losers. On the most crucial series of the game, we were three plays and out with Robert Johnson giving Vandy an assist by running out of bounds. The gift of those extra 30 seconds would later be used to beat his team.

Execution on special teams looks to be completely sporadic all year. All of the sudden, Michael Coe can't catch a punt after looking good last week. After two muffs (that were fortunately recovered by the Hogs), Coe was (correctly) fired and replaced by Felix Jones. Makes you wonder, though, why Peyton Hillis wasn't replaced last week after losing two fumbles. Hmmm...preferential treatment...there's no history of that with HDN, is there?

I had my first opportunity to sit in outdoor club seats last night. I invited some friends up and while we enjoyed the atmosphere, I'll be glad to feel a little more "into the game" from my regular seats in section 102 for the rest of the season. And hopefully I will shake off this crappy loss and the annoying cold I've had lately by the next home game. Unfortunately, right now it looks like Houston Nutt and the rest of the Hogs may continue to be sick all season long. Ugh. Bring on the Trojans!

Houston Nutt Press Conference - 9/11/2005

Hogwired.com: Houston Nutt Press Conference Transcript

"This is a very sick feeling this morning. We got up and that score didn't go away. You watch the film and there were so many opportunities that we had and chances to put the game away. I guess that's the most frustrating thing.

"There were times we looked good and our guys played extremely hard, they really wanted this ball game. That's what hurts the most. When you play that hard and you don't finish it. I thought we were in a rhythm at times on offense. We kind of went both ways. We kept the ball during the first quarter for about 10 or 11 minutes. Then they had it for 10 or 11 minutes. That's what made it tough. We couldn't get off the field.

"We went up 23-14 and had a trick play that could have been big, but we overthrew Peyton Hillis down the sideline. There were so many plays you can pick out and you say, if, could of, would of and that shows you there's a fine line between winning and losing. We have to correct and improve and go play this other team called USC."

Also:

HawgsIllustrated.com: Nutt's Vandy Review (subscription)

Updated 9/11/05 9:45 p.m. - Added additional links.

Post-Game Reports - Vanderbilt 28, Arkansas 24

Hogwired.com: Vanderbilt Scores in Final Minute to Knock Off Hogs

"This was a disappointing loss," UA head coach Houston Nutt said. "We had our chances, but let some opportunities slip away. We knew we would be playing against a top-notch quarterback. We got pressure on him and hit him hard. They just made some great plays. We let one slip."
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"I wish we could have run the clock more on that last drive before we had to punt," Nutt said. "We've got to pick up and work harder to get better. There were some questionable calls, but that's life. You’ve got to be able to overcome those."

Also:

Robbie Neiswanger: Hogs Fall To Late Vanderbilt Rally
Mike Capshaw: Defense Breaks Down On Final Drive and Johnson Spreads It Around
Grant Hall: Howard Battles Gamely For Razorbacks
Clay Henry: Vandy's Playmaker (subscription)
Bob Holt: Commandeered
Scott Cain: Stand sits well with Vandy and Instant Replay
Otis Kirk: Razorbacks’ Howard can’t enjoy his big night
Wally Hall: UA blurs offense’s identity in loss to Vandy

Vanderbilt Wades Through the Hog Slop

89 and a half yard drive, 3 running plays stuffed, goal line stand, takes the crowd out of the game, puts Houston Dale into his offensive "shell" (which he typically enters after 2 or 3 series in any event), and basically hands Vanderbilt the stake that we were about to drive through their heart for them to use on us later. I strongly suspected when we didn't score that we would get beat by that touchdown. Teams that get stopped on the goal line like that almost always lose the game by that touchdown.

Defense gave up 180 yards in the 4th quarter. How many yards did the offense make in the 4th quarter? At so many points of marginal difference in the game we came up lacking. The referees did not "beat" us. We were sloppy around the edges. We gave up a 72 yard run (after giving up the 85 yard run the week before). Penalties cost us well over 100 yards, counting yardage called back. Beat on a basic out and up for a touchdown. Beat on the 2 point conversion. Same guy - that was also dropping punts. RoJo Waco runs out of bounds, after not having his feet in position to throw to a wide open Monk over the middle, when all we needed to ice the game was milk the clock and make one first down. They won time of posession for the game by 3 minutes, and, if I am not mistaken, (quick math and reliance on memory in progress . . .) beat us by 5+ minutes in time of posesssion in the 2nd half.

Live by the blitz, die by the blitz. Live with your hands on the receivers, die with your hands on the receivers. The blitz and the hands seemed to be in sync at times. Reggie Herring can scream and throw the white board all he wants (he was quite entertaining, especially when he was screaming and drawing while not looking . . ). He's coaching and calling the defenses against the other team's offensive coaches. As the game progressed, he got it taken to him. Screaming and throwing the white board will grow old quickly unless he steps up.

I repeat, the referees did not beat us. You could see this coming after the goal line stand. The only thing that may prevent us from starting 1-4 is that the Louisanna-Monroe game comes before the Auburn game. Not being negative, just being realistic.

Vanderbilt 28, Arkansas 24

Hogwired.com: Arkansas and Vanderblit Game Notes

VU’s last outright win in an SEC opener occurred in 1990 when the Dores beat LSU, 24-21, in Nashville (VU was credited with a win over Alabama in 1993 due to a forfeit). The last time the Commodores opened their Southeastern Conference schedule with a road victory was 1984... That year, VU beat Alabama, 30-21, in Tuscaloosa... The Commodores last won two straight road games in 1999 (Ole Miss and Duke).

Also:

Hogwired.com: Postgame Quotes and Final Stats
HawgsIllustrated.com: Vanderbilt 28, Arkansas 24 (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Vandy shocks Hawgs at home (subscription)
ESPN.com: Vanderbilt 28, Arkansas 24
SI.com: Play-By-Play
AP Photos: Robert Johnson, Peyton Hillis, Jay Cutler

Updated 9/11/05 1:45 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. Vanderbilt

Hogwired.com: Arkansas FB Game Notes - Vanderbilt Game

With only one non-conference game under its belt, Arkansas will open the SEC portion of its schedule this weekend when it hosts Vanderbilt at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

The Hogs are coming off a season-opening 49-17 win over Missouri State. Vanderbilt is also coming off an opening win. The Commodores traveled to Winston-Salem, N.C. and captured a 24-20 victory over Wake Forest. Saturday night's meeting will be the first football contest between the two schools since 1995.

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: State Of The Hogs: Vandy (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Hawgs vs. 'Dores (subscription)
Robbie Neiswanger: New Season, New Challenge
The Morning News: Key Matchup and Head-To-Head
Democrat-Gazette: Razorback Gameday
Bob Holt: Running at full steam
Hogwired.com: Razorzone and 2005 Roster & Bios

Lindsey Helps Demolish Carlson Terrace

Chris Branam: UA trustee pays to remove section of Carlson Terrace

His donation only covered the costs of the demolition, he said. He plans to help raise private funds for the park. "It's not a matter of tearing Carlson Terrace down; it's about building a park," Lindsey said. "It's going to be the most exquisite park on any campus in the country."

The university also plans to use the park as a tailgating area starting next football season, Pederson said.
...
His donation wasn't meant to create a tailgating area, Lindsey said. He noted that tailgating in the park will happen only a handful of days each year. "I'm trying to expedite some dilapidated... mold-ridden buildings into a wonderful asset for the university," Lindsey said.

Practice Reports - 9/8/2005

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Works on Kicking Game

"We're hoping our kickers have a better night, hopefully kicking that ball out of the end zone or with a lot of hang time to give our coverage guys a chance to pin them down there inside the 20," Nutt said. "We also worked on our field goal unit and blocking. We're trying to work on all those situations and get it right."

Nutt announced the starting defensive tackles for the weekend. Sophomore Marcus Harrison and junior Keith Jackson earned the first team slots, while true freshman Marcus Shavers and redshirt freshman Michael Tate were assigned to the second team.

"We're taking the redshirt off Marcus Shavers," Nutt said. "The time is right now. It's easy (to decide) when he practices as hard as he does. I think he was trying a little too hard the first week and a half. He was second team then and he never fell too far, because his effort and intensity was awesome. He just kept working and working. We just feel he deserves this opportunity along with Michael Tate."

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: Thursday Grid Update, 9/8 (subscription)
Mike Capshaw: Gragg Hopes To Win Bragging Rights
Nate Allen: Baker to miss Vanderbilt game with knee injury
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Report

Updated 9/9/05 9:20 a.m. - Added additional links.

Van Horn Brings In 18 New Players

Hogwired.com: Diamond Hogs Welcome 18 Newcomers for 2006 Season

"This is an exciting group of players that we have on campus," Van Horn said. "Not only have we added quality arms to the rotation and bullpen, but we have loaded the depth chart with athletes throughout the lineup."
...
"We feel like all four of these pitchers can come in and help right away," Van Horn said. "They give us an opportunity to solidify our starting rotation and help in the bullpen."

Let me tell you...if you don't produce, you'll be replaced by DVH. Of all the Razorback coaches, he's my favorite because of his no-nonsense attitude. When you see him, it's obvious that he expects nothing less than a national championship out of every team he coaches.

Practice Reports - 9/7/2005

Hogwired.com: Hogs Focus on Assignment Football

"We had a nice practice today and the cloud cover for the final 45 minutes of was great," Arkansas head coach Houston Nutt said. "We had good concentration for the most part. We are still working real hard on Vanderbilt's different schemes on offense.

"Any time a team runs the option there is a lot of responsibility involved. You have to know who has the dive, who has the quarterback and who has the pitch. I think that is very important because they will do that to slow you down."

Also:

HawgSports.com: Concerned with Cutler (subscription)
HawgsIllustrated.com: Wednesday Grid Report, 9-7 (subscription)
Grant Hall: Hillis Trying To Get A Grip
Nate Allen: Hogs preparing for stacked line from Vanderbilt
Chris Cocoles: Drops not shattering for Monk
ARSN: Razorback Report

Updated 9/8/05 8:20 a.m. - Added additional links.

The New Hogwired.com Is Up

As promised last week, the newly redesigned official site of the Razorbacks, Hogwired.com, was launched earlier this evening.

SEC Sports Radio Show Now In NWA

For those of you in the Northwest Arkansas area, The Fan ESPN 1190 AM will begin broadcasting SEC Conference Call with Ken Kincaid and Shawn Arnell tonight at 6 p.m. Some of you may remember Arnell was formerly the co-host of the local Press Row morning radio show with Mike Irwin.

SEC Football Conference Call - 9/7/2005

SECSports.com: SEC Football Coaches Press Conference - 09/7/2005

Houston Nutt:

(On facing Vanderbilt) "We had a couple of good days of practice, getting ready for Vanderbilt. We ended up pretty good health wise and we are looking forward to the challenge on Saturday."

(On running game) "We were glad to get off to the start that we did. We didn't turn the ball over. We know people are going to start cramming the line of scrimmage. We expect that. We expect people to come after us and we have to be ready and prepared to execute."

(On Jay Cutler) "He is outstanding. I think the thing I noticed is that they are going to put the ballgame in his hand. That's a smart thing to do. He is a senior and had a lot of starts. He doesn't get sacked much. You can do a lot of things with him. I see them building that team around Jay Cutler."

Vanderbilt coach Bobby Johnson:

(On facing Arkansas) "Hopefully we are well rested since we played last Thursday. Arkansas has a new quarterback on offense and they will be different from last year. We will be ready this week."

ESPN Fires Trev Alberts

Sometimes jerks just get what's coming to them. Former Nebraska alum Alberts, you may remember, inserted himself (see here and here) into the Houston Nutt courtship by the Cornhuskers after the 2003 season.

On Sunday morning, Trev decided not to show up for work. So the ESPN brass said, "Hit the bricks, pal...beat it." I'm sure, however, that it'll be hard for them to find someone else that makes Mark May look like "the smart one."

Practice Reports - 9/6/2005

U of A SID: Arkansas Prepares for Vanderbilt

"Besides great preparation this week, we really need the fans to make this the most hostile environment come Saturday at 6 o'clock," Nutt said. "When Jay Cutler comes to that line of scrimmage we need every fan to play every play with us. We truly need them to be the 12th man."

Arkansas has an exceptional running game and is currently leading the nation in rushing yards. The Hogs are expecting to see the blitz from Vanderbilt and are working on utilizing their passing game more in order to have a better-balanced offensive attack.

"We have to continue to keep blocking and executing," Nutt said. "We worked hard on our passing game, because we’re expecting the blitz and movement from their defense. We have to execute our passing game and throw and catch. We're still mixing in new formations."

Also:

ARSN: Tuesday Razorback Report
Clay Henry: Tuesday Grid Report, 9/6 (subscription)
Trey Biddy: Calling All Hogs (subscription)
Vernon Tarver: Defense Shoring Up 'Unacceptable' Mistakes
Chris Cocoles: Razorbacks Report

Updated 9/7/05 8:40 a.m. - Added additional links.

Jones is SEC Freshman of the Week

U of A SID: Felix Jones Named Inaugural SEC Freshman of the Week

Arkansas tailback Felix Jones is the inaugural winner of the Southeastern Conference's Freshman Player of the Week award, it was announced by the league office on Tuesday.
...
"It's a nice honor for Felix to be recognized as the first SEC freshman of the week," UA head coach Houston Nutt says. "Felix and our other backs made some nice runs and after the game he was among the first to mention the outstanding blocking by our offensive line. Any time you have a big rushing day like we had, it takes a lot of people working together."

Paul's Calls - Missouri State

This is very cool. ARSN now appears to be providing a highlight video along with the Paul Eells audio clips from each game. Thanks to The Slop for the link.

Basketball Recruits Visiting

You know, I haven't been linking to many recruiting articles in the month since this blog started. To me, a recruiting story needs to be newsworthy (like the announcement of a commitment) in order to get me interested.

But Tuesday's article by Dudley Dawson on hoops recruiting visits really got me fired up. The visiting players mentioned are: Memphis Mitchell senior forward Thaddeus Young (6-8, 210), Junction City junior guard James Anderson (6-5, 190), UA-Fort Smith juco forward Sonny Weems (6-6, 200) and Bolivar (Tenn.) Central point guard Willie Kemp (6-3, 180).

Monday Recap - 9/5/2005

U of A SID: Jones, Olajubutu and Coe Earn Inaugural Hogwired.com Players of the Week Honors

Olajubutu led the Razorbacks with 10 tackles on 57 defensive snaps, with eight of his 10 tackles being solo stops. The LaGrange, Ga., native also made one tackle for loss (-2) and forced a fumble. As a result of his forced fumble in the first quarter teammate Darius Vinnett picked up the ball and raced 44 yards for a touchdown.

Coe shined in his first collegiate appearance at the punt return position as he returned four punts for 61 yards. Three of his returns were over 10 yards including returns of 14, 20, 22 yards. The Memphis, Tenn. native also tallied four tackles, with two coming from kickoff coverage.

Also:

Houston Nutt Press Conference - 9/4/2005

ARSN: Monday Razorback Report
AP: Nutt encouraged by Johnson but worried by fumbles
Mike Capshaw: Senior Gives 'Moore' At Middle Linebacker
Terry Wood: Opening holes
Nate Allen: Hogs must get a grip for Vandy
Scott Cain: Nutt pleased with Johnson’s debut
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Game Wrap
Rick Schaeffer: Little Unexpected

Updated 9/6/05 9:45 p.m. - Added additional links.

New Uniforms

It's taken me 24 hours to decide how I feel about having "Arkansas" across the front of our uniforms. I've decided I'll be ok with it even though a part of me thinks it's a bit cheesy. ... more ...

Houston Nutt Press Conference - 9/4/2005

U of A SID: Houston Nutt Press Conference Transcript

What the team will do to correct the turnovers:

"We're going to start today. The game really could have been put away very, very early. The way you do it is to sleep and eat with that ball. Starting today at practice we’re going to have a lot of scout teamers trying to poke and strip the ball away from them when they’re least expecting it. It can’t be a deal where they're always expecting it. They basically thought no one could take the ball from them. If you watch the film the ball is completely away from the body on two of the three fumbles. You have to be ball conscious. There’s nothing wrong with taking two hands when you’re in traffic to secure it."

On the defense:

"I thought the older guys, Pierre Brown, Sam Olajubutu and Clarke Moore played outstanding. I think each of them had one mistake all night long. Pierre had about 64 snaps, Sam has 57 and they were all over the field. We're going to move Clarke Moore up to first-team this week. We still need Weston Dacus to keep coming, but Clarke is doing more right now. What I respect about Clarke Moore is that he was basically fourth-team defense end and in the doghouse. He's a good person and has a great heart. That’s what hard work does and we're real proud of him."

Also:

Clay Henry: Nutt Reveals Lineup Change (subscription)
Robbie Neiswanger: Fumbling Away Opportunities

Updated 9/5/05 9:50 a.m. - Added additional links.

My Thoughts - Missouri State

The season started a little inauspiciously. Missouri State, who was not trying an opening onside kick, busted a low hard one that smacked Freddie Fairchild ten yards away and popped right back to the Missouri State kickoff team. Everybody in the stadium was like, "What the hell???" If this season turns disappointing, we might point back to that fluke play as the first sign that the football gods were against us.

Robert Johnson's first completion of the year was to number 14...of the opposing team. A deep ball was never attempted again after that interception. Johnson completed two passes in seven attempts in the third quarter. His passes were low or delivered late several times. He was 12 of 22 passing against a Division I-AA team (although admittedly his receivers dropped some passes that were on the money). All in all, an average game against a lesser team that respected our very average passing game way too much.

Unfortunately, Alex Mortensen was mostly worse. Unlike the scrimmage, he looked every bit of a redshirt freshman by throwing balls well behind receivers. Cole Barthel was left to the mop up work and attempted no passes.

But there were some bright spots in the passing game. The fade stop route to Marcus Monk is "money," and was executed well for the only passing touchdown of the game. A Mortensen pass to Monk was well thrown as he stepped up and showed good pocket presence. Unfortunately the play ended abruptly with Monk's lost fumble. The Hogs first play of the game (pass out into the flat from near our own end zone) was thrown well and looked to be a big gainer...until it was dropped by Hillis. First game...first game mistakes. But if it's third down and six, we appear to have some ability to complete a "possession reception" and keep drives going. The ability to do anything other than that is still an uncertainty.

The running game was...well, outstanding. Kudos to the running backs and offensive line for a great game. I don't remember there being a single holding or illegal procedure penalty on the offensive line all night.

The fumbles were...well, the fumbles. Probably my biggest problem is that they were made by the now veteran "star" players. Freshman tailbacks Felix Jones (who fumbled two weeks ago during the scrimmage) and Darren McFadden didn't have any handling problems. We also had some bobbled snaps by both quarterbacks that don't need to happen again.

Reggie Herring's description of the defensive team's play as "the good, the bad and the ugly" was perfect. The team did seem to tackle much better. (Although I thought our best tackling last year was also in the first game against New Mexico State.) The middle linebacker position is probably up for grabs. The defensive line got a nice pass rushing push at times to keep us from having to blitz. At other times, however, our DTs were whipped creating some pretty big running holes. Vickiel Vaughn's improved tackling, Keith Jackson's improved stamina and Clarke Moore's improved speed were noticed. However, the lack of big plays by touted defensive end Anthony Brown was also apparent.

Our cornerbacks' press coverage is much, much, much better. To be honest, for the past few years I've blamed Bobby Allen for our poor cornerback play. However, if last night is any indication, it appears the issue wasn't necessarily with Allen's coaching. (What the combination was in the past of personnel, scheme and emphasis is up for debate.) Either that or Herring has gotten more out of Allen as a coach, just as he has gotten more out of almost all of the returning players on defense.

The only weapon displayed on special teams was punt returner Michael Coe. His elusiveness, shown at the fan appreciation day scrimmage two weeks ago on a 92 yard interception return, was confirmed again last night during his punt returns. Brian Vavra kicked off well, although he had no touchbacks on a night when the wind was not the factor it was expected to be earlier in the day. Jacob Skinner's punting appears to still be hit or miss. Unfortunately, he was also responsible for the only points taken off the board when, as the holder, he didn't get the ball snapped quickly enough on a delayed made field goal. On the second try, Chris Balseiro missed the attempt badly. We also played two players with the uniform #2 (Chris Houston and Reggie Fish) on a couple of punt returns late in the game. Not sure if that's legal... ;-)

The officiating crew was lazy and, at times, pathetic. An early phantom holding call on an interception, a missed delay of game on the first Missouri State touchdown, an inexplicable "running over the snapper" penalty, and the use of instant replay to confirm a made field goal were examples of ineptitude. I mean...is there anybody else in the world that has a better view than the referee standing under the goal post?

The new uniforms were okay (see photo here). Let's face it...any changes they make are never going to look as bad as the Danny Ford era "charging hog shoulder pads" Apex uniforms. Ugh.

The audio system at Reynolds Razorback Stadium is still lousy and, at times, inaudible. The athletic department should just drive right up the road to Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City to hear what a real stadium system sounds like. As for the stadium itself, it's still as impressive now as it was when it was remodeled a few years ago. I liked the new solid wall banner on the sidelines compared to the "plain white wall and randomly hung banners" look from previous years. However, others that were with me at the game thought it looked "dirty."

The crowd of 66,424 was better and louder than expected. I think it takes a night game for a Fayetteville crowd to be more rowdy. It was hard to tell if the new ability to open the skybox windows helped improve the crowd noise.

As a regular listener to Sports Rap and the football radio broadcast, I was glad ARSN had Chuck Barrett join Paul Eells and Keith Jackson in the booth. I thought Chuck helped integrate sideline commentator Quinn Grovey into the broadcast better than in the past, as well as helping Quinn by setting up his reports with a question. He also did a good job of making sure they quickly went to the station identification without missing any game action, a problem that has happened a little too often on previous broadcasts. However, I still have to give ARSN a C- for missing some plays due to being late out of commercial (including Jones 80 yard touchdown run) and for having poor quality audio during post-game scoring replays.

Raising $21,535 for Hurricane Katrina victims was fantastic. The observance and moment of silence before the game were well respected.

Also, in case you missed it, HogBlogger had some good quick thoughts immediately after the game was over.

Post-Game Reports - Arkansas 49, Missouri State 17

U of A SID: Jones Makes Big Debut as Hogs Run Past Missouri State

Arkansas, which has led the Southeastern Conference in rushing two of the last three years and has been in the top three the last four seasons, rushed for 483 yards, the seventh-best total in school history, on 51 carries.

On the down side, Hog backs had trouble holding on to the ball, fumbling five times and losing four. The Razorbacks countered by taking the ball from MSU five times.

"We kicked the season off on a good foot, but our defense was put in some bad situations," UA head coach Houston Nutt said. "We did a good job, but I am so upset about those fumbles because we worked so hard on not doing that. We have got to get that corrected."

Also:

Robbie Neiswanger: Hogs Run Over Bears
Mike Capshaw: Johnson Earns Passing Grade
Clay Henry: Defensive Mistakes Show Up (subscription)
Bob Holt: Trying to get a grip
Scott Cain: Missouri State adjusts on the fly and Instant Replay
Rob Keys: Hillis frets over two fumbles, Inside the Matchups and Turning points
Chris Cocoles: UA secondary on seek-and-recover mission
Chris Bahn: Hogs bull way through Bears

Updated 9/4/05 9:00 a.m. - Added additional links.