Casey Has "It"

When I first saw Casey Dick at quarterback in a Razorback practice I noticed he was different. When Houston Dale says he has “it” that may sound a little strange. But to play quarterback you have to “have it.” I definitely saw “it” in Casey, and wrote about it during the pre-season practices.

From August 9th's Tuesdaze – Last Open Practice:

Quarterbacks have more than a ways to go, with Casey Dick actually providing some impressive moments while serving up balls to the backs and tight ends against the linebackers and safeties. He puts the ball in good places I noticed.

And from October 17th's Nothing New At Quarterback:

Casey Dick, of the four, appears to me to have the most potential. I saw him in a number of practice drills that gets delegated to the 4th string guy and he just impressed me in a lot of ways. Footwork, receiver selection, and most of all, the ability to put the ball in very good places for the receivers. Not to be negative on Alex or Cole, “just saying.”

Had Houston Dale not already had his mind made up and given everyone a good look he would have had to given Casey a shot at the job.

Quarterback is a “feel.” It’s a mentality. It is seeing, reading, and reacting without having to stop and give it all a lot of thought. It’s your eyes and your feet and your arm working seamlessly together. It’s about putting the ball in the best place to give your receiver a chance to make a play - or to protect your team. Think Joe Montana - probably the best at having “it” of all time.

I’m really glad to see us making a change. Casey’s a freshman and this will be his first time out, so I’m not expecting to see the second coming of Joe Montana. While I hate to see the redshirt come off after 7 games, I do like the idea of seeing Casey play. A friend of mine announced to me last week that he was boycotting the SC game. Now he's planning to go. Gotta go see "it" on Saturday.

Casey Dick Named Razorbacks Starting Quarterback

AP: Dick to replace Johnson vs. Gamecocks

"It's not that I'm saying it's Robert Johnson's fault," Nutt said. "Nothing could be further from the truth. Robert Johnson has done some good things for our program and he's still needed."

Nutt said Dick deserves a chance to show if he can spark the Razorback offense.

As a senior at Allen High School in Texas, Dick completed 133-of-248 passes for 14 touchdowns. He also rushed for 401 yards and eight touchdowns in his final high school year.

Nutt said Dick has thrown against the Arkansas defense all season in practice "and has done very, very well."

"He has a strong arm and good instincts," Nutt said. "It's hard to explain. He just has 'it.' He just seems to have a knack for making some plays and we're going to give him an opportunity."

Also:

Nate Allen: Change under center and Razorbacks' stalling passing game forces Nutt to make move at quarterback
Bob Holt: Freshman QB to start for UA
ARSN Video: Redshirt pulled from Dick, will start versus South Carolina
HawgSports.com: True freshman Dick gets the nod at QB (subscription)

Updated 10/31/05 8:05 p.m. - Added additional links.

Red 87, White 72

Hogwired.com: Red-White Postgame Quotes

Head Coach Stan Heath:

"Overall, I was pleased with our performance. I saw a lot of positives, but we still have a lot to clean up. With the way the teams were split up, I wanted to see how Sean (McCurdy) and Dontell (Jefferson) handled the pressure from Gary (Ervin) and Eric (Ferguson). I thought they both handled the ball well.

"Ronnie (Brewer) played very well. I was surprised at how many tough shots he hit. I would like to get him some easier baskets throughout the year. He was able to help his teammates out as well."

Also:

Hogwired.com: Brewer Paces Both Teams in UA’s Red-White Game, Final Stats (PDF)
HawgsIllustrated.com: Red 87, White 72 (subscription)
AP Photos: Ronnie Brewer, Darian Townes, Jonathon Modica
Grant Hall: Prophetic Brewer Sparks Red To Win
Jerry L. Reed: Brewer Steals Show In Red-White Game
Scott Cain: Hogs show off net gains

Updated 10/30/05 10:00 a.m. - Added additional links.

Razorback Reports - 10/29/2005

Hogwired.com: Red-White Game Rosters

Red – Sammy Munsey, Dontell Jefferson, Ronnie Brewer, Sean McCurdy, Charles Thomas, Jonathon Modica, Steven Hill

White – Cyrus McGowan, Darian Townes, Gary Ervin, Luke Allen, Eric Ferguson, Preston Cranford, Vincent Hunter

Also:

StanHeath.com: Roster / Bios and Coaches / Staff
Nate Allen: Hogs hold Red-White game
Scott Cain: Point the emphasis of 'measuring stick'
Jerry L. Reed: Hogs Return To Court Today

Clay Henry: Run vs. Pass (subscription)
Mike Capshaw: Touch Of Gray
AP: Nutt happy with Arkansas practices before weekend off

Razorback Reports - 10/28/2005

Hogwired.com: Brewer Named Preseason SEC Player of the Year, Again; Hogs Picked Third in West

Arkansas junior Ronnie Brewer picked up another major preseason honor on Thursday by being named the preseason Southeastern Conference player of the year in media voting at SEC Media Days in Birmingham, Ala.

Brewer edged LSU sophomore forward Glen Davis by one vote with Alabama forward Chuck Davis finishing third.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Stan Heath Press Conference – Red-White Game
HawgSports.com: Brewer named SEC Preseason P.O.Y. (subscription)
SECSports.com: Kentucky, Tennessee Favored By Media To Win SEC Titles
Nate Allen: UA’s Brewer selected as SEC Preseason Player of the Year
Scott Cain: Hogs picked 3rd in West; Brewer tabbed top player
Wally Hall: All jokes aside, Modica getting back to old form
Grant Hall: Reports Of SEC's Demise Premature?
Vernon Tarver: Hogs Third, Lady'Backs 10th In Poll

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Make Progress During Off Week
HawgsIllustrated.com: Thursday Grid Update, 10/27 (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Fantastic Freshman (subscription)
Nate Allen: Nutt, Hogs hoping to reverse fortunes in month of November
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Report
Mike Capshaw: Skinner, Punt Team Shining For Hogs

Updated 10/28/05 8:55 a.m. - Added additional links.

2005-06 SEC Basketball Media Days

SECSports.com: Arkansas Razorbacks

Head Coach Stan Heath

Season expectations...
"I expect this to be a good team. I expect for us to contend for this league (title). That's the way I want our team to think. I want us to contend for the NCAA Tournament. The NCAA Tournament is a stamp. It's something we're hungry for."

On junior guard Ronnie Brewer...
"I expect him to provide more leadership. I expect him to make his teammates better. If we're trailing late in the game, we'll jump on his back. He's done so many things. Now, it's time to take it to the next level."

Guard philosophy...
"We're probably more old school with guards that can multi-task."

Recent changes in coaching...
"The demands for on your time are greater. There's (the need for) immediate gratification for players. Fans' expectations are heightened. There is so much information and talk - that speeds up things so much. Things spin so quickly and the pressure to win quickly exists everywhere. The minute a kid gets on campus or a coach is hired - the clock is ticking (to win)."

Also:

SECSports.com: Stan Heath Audio, Tipoff '06 - SEC Basketball Media Days, SEC Announces Men's Basketball Throwback Program for 2006 Season
Grant Hall: Brewer, Modica High On Hogs and SEC Coaches Not Wild About NBA
Democrat-Gazette: Back in the discussion

Updated 10/27/05 11:20 a.m. - Added additional links.

Football Reports - 10/27/2005

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Finish Strong in Practice

Nutt and his staff have continued to work all the quarterbacks by placing them in different game situations. Overall, Nutt was pleased with how they handled the various defensive schemes.

"The quarterbacks didn't start out as well, but they finished up good," Nutt said. "We did one-on-one pass skel and put them in third and eight situations with people coming on different blitzes. They did a good job for the most part."

Also:

HawgSports.com: Slow start, fast finish (subscription)
HawgsIllustrated.com: Wednesday Grid Report, 10/26 (subscription)
AP: Arkansas works to maintain focus during off-week and Anderson bolsters Arkansas defensive line
Jerry L. Reed: Hogs Shift Focus To Eliminating Mistakes
David Showers: Razorbacks start slow, finish strong during mid-week scrimmage
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Football Report

Updated 10/27/05 11:00 a.m. - Added additional links.

SEC Football Conference Call - 10/26/2005

SECSports.com: 2005 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference - 10/25/2005

Houston Nutt:

(On Open Week) "We are just trying to take advantage of the open week. We are trying to get the guys that are injured healed. We are trying to get better each day and build off the game at Athens. We are trying to get better and get our young people some reps."

(On freshmen tailbacks Darren McFadden and Felix Jones) "These two guys have really done a good job for us. They are getting better each week. They are mature for their age and very unselfish. They do a great job without the ball. I just want them to keep going and working hard."

(On sophomore defensive end Jamaal Anderson) "He is really gaining confidence. I'm really proud of him. He has gotten better and better each week, but the last two weeks he has really stepped out there. There is a lot of ball in front of him. He is just a sophomore. He is learning. But the biggest thing is that he is gaining confidence. He is making plays and he is gaining confidence."

Razorback Reports - 10/26/2005

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Look to Get Better During Bye Week

"We had a good practice today," Arkansas head coach Houston Nutt said. "We were going to try and go in full pads today and scrimmage a little bit, but we have a few more bumps and bruises than we anticipated. So we just had a good learning day with a lot of corrections. It was the first time we had watched the film from Saturday, and we made those corrections and had a good fundamental day of practice."

Also:

HawgSports.com: McFadden named Rivals.com Freshman of the Week
HawgSports.com: Hawgs look to get jump on Gamecocks and Five pros, five cons (subscription)
HawgsIllustrated.com: Tuesday Grid Update, 10/25 (subscription)
Mike Capshaw: Johnson Still The Guy, For Now
Jerry L. Reed: Arkansas Defensive Rotation Finally Settled For The Season
Harry King: Offense almost McFadden only
Heath Allen: Flingin foursome
Bob Holt: UAs Monk kept quiet lately and Razorbacks Report
AP: Defense focus for Nutt's Razorbacks

Nate Allen: UA's Heath happy with Razorbacks' recruiting efforts
Northwest Arkansas Times: UA Basketball Notes

Updated 10/26/05 8:50 a.m. - Added additional links.

Dave Van Horn Press Conference - 10/24/2005

Hogwired.com: Dave Van Horn Press Conference

"I thought the fall went great. A lot of the returning players stepped up and came through on the field and off. They showed the new guys what is expected around here in terms of work ethic and what is expected. I think we have the best leadership since I have been here. Also, our older players had really good falls statistically, which a lot of times doesn’t happen because they are a little tired of summer and spring baseball but this year was different and they really got after it."

Razorback Reports - 10/25/2005

Basketball

Scott Cain: Point undecided for Hogs and Hill's productivity on climb for Hogs
Terry Wood: 7-footer Hill standing tall in early practices
Grant Hall: Hill Throws Weight Around In UA Practice
AP: Heath still undecided about point guard
Otis Kirk: Young’s heart belongs to Yellow Jackets, not Hogs
Dudley Dawson: Memphis Prep Star Picks Georgia Teck Over Arkansas

Football

Hogwired.com: Arkansas-South Carolina Game to be Televised by JP Sports
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Football Report
Terry Wood: Are Bama, Georgia really that good?
Robbie Neiswanger: McFadden Making His Mark
AP: Nutt says quarterbacks 'don't have to be Superman'

Updated 10/25/05 1:10 p.m. - Added additional links.

Stan Heath Press Conference - 10/24/2005

Hogwired.com: Stan Heath Press Conference – Practice Update

Arkansas basketball coach Stan Heath met with the media on Monday for an update on the progress of his club. The Red-White Game is Saturday at 4:05 p.m. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door or through the UA Ticket Office. Doors open at 1 p.m. and players will be available to sign autographs from 1-3 around the concourse. Following is a partial transcript of the press conference.

"We've been working on certain situations. We've been working on being a team that can defend all the way through the clock. We're getting to the point where it is instinctive instead of reactionary. We're playing at a faster pace, but that also means you make more mistakes."

Monday Recap - 10/24/2005

SECSports.com: Darren McFadden Named SEC Freshman of the Week

McFadden rushed for an Arkansas freshman record 190 yards and two TDs on 31 carries in the Razorbacks' 23-20 loss at #4-ranked Georgia. He also had a 15-yard kickoff return, giving him 205 all-purpose yards. The Bulldogs entered the game yielding only an average of 91.2 yards rushing in its first six games.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Darren McFadden Earns SEC Freshman of the Week for Second Week in a Row
Robbie Neiswanger: Hogs Still Believe There's a Chance
Mike Capshaw: Is Johnson Still The Guy?
Nate Allen: Mistakes negate Razorbacks’ offensive output in loss to Georgia and Close loss at No. 4 Georgia gives Hogs hope
Bob Holt: 0-4 start in SEC 'awful', Nutt says and Razorbacks Game Wrap
AP: Nutt explains decision to stick with Johnson, Nutt says quarterbacks will still compete, Georgia puts its season in hands of special teamer
Rick Schaffer: Closing The Gap

Updated 10/24/05 4:30 p.m. - Added additional links.

My Thoughts - Georgia

There's not too much to say this week. We got the moral victory that the few remaining sunshine pumpers had been wanting for the entire season. And even though the Shockley injury was obviously a big factor, the defense gave us a chance to win. Along with the Alabama game, that makes two top 10 teams that this maligned defense has given us an opportunity against this season. Unfortunately, the offensive coaches and players have squandered those chances.

Playing not to lose usually makes you a loser. "I'd love to throw the ball up and down the field, but this is what we do best,” Houston Nutt was quoted after the game. No coach...what we do the best right now is lose. 0-10 versus ranked opponents. 1-11 against SEC teams with winning records. But #1 in the SEC in rushing! Ask Mark Richt if he'd rather be 7-0 right now or #1 in the SEC in anything. We can brag about our rushing game...and it is outstanding...but our opponents will continue to compliment us on it as long as we accept those accolades as a trade for losing to them.

The "giving the other quarterbacks a second look" was to appease the fans. We heard the same thing after yesterday's game that we've heard all year long. Robert Johnson gives us the best chance to win. (Uh...we're 0-4 in the SEC.) He "gets the ball to the running backs deep." (Huh?) Nutt also said Johnson is the best at play-action fakes and bootlegs. (And boy, our passing threat sure makes that play-action extremely effective!) In other words, "I'm right and you're wrong. I won't change anything just because you want me to do it. Practices are closed so you don't know that I'm being pig-headed."

Seven games into the season and we are still making numerous mental mistakes. Everyone saw the penalties. If you didn't, our coach made sure you knew about how they "killed us" in his post-game news conference. But what about this one. With 14:55 left in the 4th quarter, Georgia defensive end Brandon Miller was injured attempting to sack Robert Johnson. After an almost 2 minute delay, play resumed with Arkansas...wait for it...having to call timeout because we only had 10 men on the field. The missing man appeared to be Peyton Hillis. Later that quarter, of course, Hillis muffed his second punt of the game and allowed Georgia to score the winning margin. And speaking of that...

Are players treated equally under Houston Nutt? And, if so, will Peyton Hillis lose his job as punter returner like Michael Coe did after the Vanderbilt game? I've written about this before so I'm not going to get into it again. Short version: when the coach plays politics with who he puts out on the field, it will eventually come back to bite him. But anyway...what's my best guess? I'd say it's a pretty safe bet that HDN will have #22 fielding punts from South Carolina punter Josh Brown in two weeks. And that's fine...at this point, very few people care anyway.

Also from HogBlogger: Georgia -- Passing (or lack thereof) Thoughts

What are your thoughts? Leave a comment here.

Houston Nutt Press Conference - 10/23/2005

Hogwired.com: Houston Nutt Press Conference Transcript

On the quarterback situation:

"After the Auburn game we opened this thing up to reevaluate the position. We put a lot of emphasis on each play, the philosophy and everything we were doing. Who gives us the best chance to win? It was just decided by Wednesday Robert (Johnson) gave us the best chance to win this particular time going into this hostile of an environment.
...
"We're going to keep working this week and we'll talk about that hard tomorrow. We'll study South Carolina starting tomorrow. We'll keep working with each quarterback and give them the reps. I think they are at a point they know each day is critical. The one that responds the best is the guy. I think everybody has to have the attitude of we have to improve."

Georgia -- Passing (or lack thereof) Thoughts

The Razorback tried their best General Sherman approach to march over Georgia but came up a bit short on the scoreboard. ...more...

Post-Game Reports - Georgia 23, Arkansas 20

Robbie Neiswanger: Not Enough
Mike Capshaw: Arkansas Roughs Up Georgia
Clay Henry: McFadden Making Big Strides for Hogs
Grant Hall: Johnson Wins Job And Georgia's Respect
Nate Allen: Records, hearts broken
Terry Wood: Razorbacks playing hard despite difficult season
Bob Holt: A run for their life
Scott Cain: Dazed defenders give nod to Arkansas and Instant Replay
Rob Keys: Passing on pass handcuffs Hogs offense, Backup QB gets it done for 'Dogs, Inside the Matchups
Otis Kirk: Anderson fills in, helps stop run
Chris Givens: Arkansas' mistakes come at worst time
Wally Hall: Georgia defense can’t stop mighty McFadden

Updated 10/23/05 11:20 a.m. - Added additional links.

Georgia 23, Arkansas 20

Hogwired.com: No. 4 Georgia Holds Off Hog Upset Bid, 23-20

Darren McFadden had a huge day and D.J. Shockley was forced out early as Arkansas stayed with No. 4 Georgia most of the day Saturday, but a late turnover by the Razorbacks and a defensive stop by the Bulldogs helped Georgia hold on for a 23-20 victory.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Arkansas-Georgia Postgame Notes and Final Stats (PDF)
HawgsIllustrated.com: Georgia 23, Arkansas 20 (subscription)
UGASports.com: Houston Nutt Audio, Mark Richt Audio, Dawgs outlast Hogs (subscription)
ESPN.com: Shockley injured, leaves during Dawgs' win
The Razorback Legacy: Photo Archive - Georgia (L)
AP Photos: Darren McFadden, Peyton Hillis, Sam Olajabutu, D.J. Shockley, Bryan McClendon, Mohamed Massaquoi

Updated 10/22/05 10:35 p.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. Georgia

Hogwired.com: Game Day Central

Georgia (6-0, 4-0 SEC) is sitting comfortably atop the SEC Eastern Division standings with a two-game lead, in the loss column, over Florida, Tennessee and Vanderbilt. The Bulldogs knocked off No. 18 Boise State to open the season and have never looked back. Georgia has consecutive wins over South Carolina, Louisiana-Monroe, Mississippi State, Tennessee and Vanderbilt. With the exception of the South Carolina game, the Bulldogs have won by a margin of 13 points or more.

Also:

JP Sports: Live Game Video
ARSN: Razorback Report and ARSN broadcast in Athens, Georgia
Democrat-Gazette: Game Day
Bob Holt: Living in a Dawg-eat-Hog world and Position-by-position matchups
Scott Cain: 'Dogs' defense hit with injuries
Robbie Neiswanger: Road Killed and Herring, Richt Go Way Back
The Morning News: Keys To The Game and Head To Head
Clay Henry: State of the Hogs: Georgia (subscription)
AP: No. 4 Georgia looks to stay on path for SEC title, possible Rose Bowl
Rick Schaeffer: What Are The Chances?

Quarterback Anyone?

HogBlogger has returned to NWA from a couple of days on the road doing actual work (instead of the usual steady diet of Razorback football and Sonic cheeseburgers).

After a bit of catching up with some people, it's looking like Robert Johnson is going to start at quarterback this week against Georgia. I’m hearing Alex might have completed a few more passes in practice than was really necessary – like 3 in one day to the defense – and that this had not gone over too well with Houston Dale.

I would suspect RoJo / Waco had a good week of practice and will come to play, fighting for both job and honor. I expect that if things don’t go well for him he will see the bench. Who comes in next is anyone's guess at this point. I continue to believe taking the redshirt off of Casey Dick is not smart and would be just be further confirmation (as if we need more) that Houston Dale is not doing a good job with the quarterbacks.

Three Hogs Hoopsters Named Preseason All-SEC By Coaches

Hogwired.com: Brewer, Modica, Townes Named Preseason All-SEC by League's Coaches

Arkansas junior guard Ronnie Brewer, senior guard Jonathon Modica and sophomore forward Darian Townes were each named to the preseason All-Southeastern Conference basketball team selected by league coaches and released by the league office on Friday.

Arkansas tied Alabama for the most selections on the team with three each.

Brewer is on the first team along with Alabama senior forward Chuck Davis and sophomore guard Ronald Steele, Florida sophomore guard/forward Corey Brewer, Kentucky sophomore guard Rajon Rondo, LSU sophomore forward Glen Davis, Tennessee senior guard C.J. Watson and Vanderbilt sophomore guard/forward Shan Foster.

Joining Modica and Townes on the second team are Alabama junior forward Jermareo Davidson, Florida sophomore forward Al Horford, Kentucky senior guard Patrick Sparks, LSU senior guard Darrel Mitchell, Tennessee sophomore guard Chris Lofton and Vanderbilt senior guard Mario Moore.

Brewer, Davis, Steele and Rondo were unanimous selections.

Football Reports - 10/20/2005

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Adds Depth to Defense

"Antwain Robinson is going to play," Nutt said. “We're in a position now that we've moved Fred Bledsoe and Jeremy Harrell, so we need that depth. We'll have Jamaal Anderson, Zach Snider, Desmond Sims and Michael Tate. With the injury to Anthony Brown we had to take the redshirt off Antwain Robinson."

Nutt and his staff have allowed different quarterbacks to take more snaps in practice, but he emphasized they would not name a starter until Saturday morning. Overall, the offensive unit has responded well to the variety and Nutt believes it has sharpened their focus.

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: Thursday Grid Report, 10/20 (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Hawgs have tough chore with Dawgs (subscription)
AP: Arkansas ends last practice before Georgia with 2-minute drill and Georgia puts its QB in same class with Leinart, Young, Vick
Ryan Aber: Quiet Monk
Mike Capshaw: Center Of Attention
Scott Cain: Mort’s tongue tied on UA QB puzzle and Bulldogs offense on upswing
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Report
Wally Hall: Nutt has brought some criticism on himself

Updated 10/21/05 9:45 a.m. - Added additional links.

Basketball Reports - 10/20/2005

Hogwired.com: Activities Scheduled for Red-White Basketball Game

Arkansas’ basketball team takes the floor for its first game of the season on Saturday, Oct. 29, with the 4:05 p.m. Red-White Game.
...
Gates open at 1 p.m. and players will be available to sign autographs from 1-3 p.m. at tables spread throughout the concourse.

The first 10,000 fans receive a 2005-06 schedule poster, and various contests will take place prior to the game and at halftime.

Tickets are $5 at the door or through the UA Ticket Office.

Drop boxes will be set up at the entrances for anyone wanting to donate non-perishable food items to the Salvation Army and Cooperative Emergency Outreach.

Also:

HawgSports.com: Impact 'McFreshmen' (subscription)

Razorbacks Fall Baseball Recap

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Fall Baseball Recap

The Arkansas baseball team wrapped up its 2005 Fall World Series last week with the White team winning the series in five games behind the hitting of Danny Hamblin and Brian Walker. The conclusion of the Fall World Series brought an end to the Razorbacks fall practice schedule.

The Hogs will spend the remainder of the fall in the weight room and individual workouts, training for a promising 2006 campaign. The 2006 season opens in Mobile, Ala, on Feb. 10, against George Mason in the South Alabama Tournament. The home portion of the schedule is slated to begin on Thursday, Feb. 23, with Louisiana Tech visiting Baum Stadium.

Also:

2006 Baseball Schedule Announced

Football Reports - 10/19/2005

Hogwired.com: Nutt Makes Moves to Solidify Offensive Line

Nutt moved defensive tackles Fred Bledsoe and Jeremy Harrell to the offensive line in a 90 minute workout in shells inside the Willard and Pat Walker Pavilion Wednesday afternoon.

The Hogs lost guard Chase Pressley to a separated shoulder during Tuesday’s practice and are still worried about center Kyle Roper’s knee.

"We are concerned with the offensive line with Roper being a little shaky and (Chase) Pressley going down with a separated shoulder yesterday," Nutt said. "I moved Jeremy Harrell to offensive guard and Fred Bledsoe to tackle. We were basically down to six guys, and we were getting nervous and thin."

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: Wednesday Grid Update, 10/19 (subscription)
DawgPost.com: Dawgs wonder about Hogs' QBs (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Hawgs make moves and Back home for 'Butu (subscription)
UGASports.com: Hawgs present challenges (subscription)
AP: No uncertainty in Razorbacks' backfield
Robbie Neiswanger: Under The Magnifying Glass
Mike Capshaw: Bledsoe, Harrell Move To Offense
Jerry L. Reed: Georgia QB Happy He Stayed Around
Nate Allen: Defenders Harrell, Bledsoe moved to offensive line
Bob Holt: 28 years later, Richt plays host to Herring
Chris Cocoles: Razorbacks Report

Updated 10/20/05 10:30 a.m. - Added additional links.

SEC Football Conference Call - 10/19/2005

SECSports.com: 2005 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference - 10/19/2005

Houston Nutt:

(On facing Georgia) "We had a good day yesterday in preparation for Georgia. They are a great team on both sides of the ball."

(On confidence after USC loss) "We got back at 7:15 am. It was a very tough game and we met later on that day and from that point on we have been extremely positive. We convinced our guys that we will always play hard and that we were back in conference play."

Mark Richt:

(On facing Arkansas) "I think the biggest thing that we have concerns about is trying to stop the running game they have at Arkansas. We have had some success stopping the run this year, so we have to find some guys who will step up and play good. That's our main concern right now."

(On BCS) "I really and truly do not worry about it one bit. I really don't. I am so busy as it is, we are just trying to win games. I hope we play good enough that I can be mad at the end of the year."

(On Arkansas having two quarterbacks) "I think it does in this case. Sometimes you have two quarterbacks that are a like so it doesn't make too much of a difference. If it is Alex Mortenson, he hasn't played a lot and there isn't much to see. It makes it a little bit more difficult."

A More Elite Destination?

Robert Knodell over at Fanblogs.com thinks "free agent" Butch Davis might choose another job over moving to Fayetteville if Houston Nutt is "shown the door" at the end of the year.

And while that's certainly a concern, after eight seasons I think many Hog fans are ready for a change...whether Davis is willing and available or not.

Hamlin Story is Front Page News in Seattle

The Seattle Times: A beating, a slaying and a lot of questions

While playing for the University of Arkansas, Hamlin was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving three times and convicted twice. He left the Razorbacks as a junior and was drafted by the Seahawks in the second round in April 2003. At the time, general manager Bob Ferguson said the team was hypersensitive to the questions of his character.

Arkansas coach Houston Nutt said he was surprised that his former player had landed in trouble.

"I thought he had matured. I thought he'd up and left all that behind," he said yesterday.

Sports Rap via KFAY Now Online

Back in August, the Sports Rap radio show began streaming on the Internet. Unfortunately, the third-party web site hosting the show required an completely useless software add-in to be installed in order to listen online.

Now after years of waiting, the station where the show originates, KFAY-AM in Fayetteville, has finally begun broadcasting their programming online. Sports Rap with Chuck Barrett comes on every weeknight at 5:00 p.m. CT.

Football Reports - 10/18/2005

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Gears up for Georgia

Nutt also announced that junior defensive end Anthony Brown is out for the remainder of the season with a fractured right ankle he suffered in the Auburn game. Sophomore Jamaal Anderson, junior Desmond Sims and freshman Zach Snider will take up the slack at the position.

"Anthony Brown is probably out for the season," Nutt said. "I hate that. He was getting better. He tore a ligament from the bone of the ankle. It's a bad injury. Jamaal Anderson, Zach Snider and Desmond Sims will get the bulk of it.

"We'll talk to Antwain Robinson about possibly taking the redshirt off if necessary," Nutt said. “That's what hard. You hate to do it, but we just might need him."

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: Tuesday Grid Update, 10/18 (subscription)
HawgSports.com: UA football in flux? (subscription)
UGASports.com: Stop the run (subscription)
Robbie Neiswanger: QB Situation Still Unresolved and Arkansas Preparing For Another Rushing Test
Mike Capshaw: Third And A Long Shot
Jerry L. Reed: Arkansas Loses Starting Defensive End
Nate Allen: UA starting quarterback still a mystery; Brown out for season
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Report

Updated 10/19/05 8:55 a.m. - Added additional links.

Student Comments on Houston Dale

I've been following the articles by Randy Oller, the Assistant Sports Editor of The Arkansas Traveler -- the U of A's student newspaper -- and his comments regarding Houston Dale. In spite of the fact that HogBlogger's drivel was once published in the Traveler, it is an excellent publication for keeping up with the University and Randy is worth reading on a regular basis.

Tuesday Preview - 10/18/2005

Hogwired.com: Arkansas FB Game Notes - Georgia

Arkansas and Georgia will meet for the 11th time and only the third time in Athens. Of the 10 previous games between the teams, four have been in bowl games. Georgia leads the overall series record with a 7-3 mark including last year's 20-14 win in Fayetteville. The Bulldogs have won seven of the last eight meetings with the Hogs including the last four-consecutive games.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Arkansas FB Game Notes - Georgia (PDF)
Robbie Neiswanger: Arkansas Keeping Quarterback Situation Under Wraps
Jerry L. Reed: Georgia Off To Fast Start
Nate Allen: Hogs looking for answers at quarterback
Scott Cain: Bulldogs eye Hogs, gander at grandeur
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Report

Nothing New at Quarterback

So, unlike Tipster, I was actually ok with the play calling for the most part Saturday night against Auburn. There were a lot of things that were open that we didn’t take advantage of. The play of the quarterback had a lot to do with that. But we’ve come to expect that from a Houston Dale coached team.

Let me start by saying that it is the coach’s responsibility to put a quarterback on the field that can execute. ...more...

Two Quarterbacks and More Option?

AP: Nutt still trying to resolve quarterback situation

"Haven't really resolved anything yet," Nutt said. "We're still discussing, still talking about it."

Nutt said Johnson, redshirt freshman Alex Mortensen, freshman Cole Barthel and freshman Casey Dick split time with the first team during Sunday's practice. He hoped to narrow down the competition soon.

Nutt even said Arkansas would consider using more than one quarterback -- and might make changes in its offensive scheme.

"It might be a two-quarterback system," Nutt said. "It might be a little more option."

Oh dear Lord. Of course, I remember when we played four quarterbacks and tried to run the option against UNLV to start the 2001 season. That experiment lasted all of one game.

Former Hog Hamlin Fractures Skull

Former Hog Ken Hamlin got outnumbered in a street fight after last night's game and took a signpost to the head.

Ken Hamlin of the Seattle Seahawks was in serious but stable condition with head injuries Monday following an early morning fight outside a nightclub.

Hamlin was involved in an altercation with two men who were not in custody, according to police. He had a fractured skull, a small blood clot and bruising of the brain tissue, and would remain in intensive care for the next day or two, team physician Stan Herring said.

Monday Recap - 10/17/2005

Hogwired.com: Darren McFadden Named SEC Freshman of the Week

"I am proud of Darren and what he has accomplished this season," Arkansas head coach Houston Nutt said. "He continues to run hard and use the holes that our offensive line has made for him. He is a talented back and will continue to have a big role in our offense."

Also:

Hogwired.com: McFadden, Olajubutu, and Hillis Gain Hogwired.com Player of the Week Honors
Robbie Neiswanger: Nutt Re-Evaluating Quarterback Position
Mike Capshaw: Nutt Trying To Keep Hopes Alive
Nate Allen: Change at QB could be answer for Razorbacks and Walking wounded
Scott Cain: Hogs could see a change at QB
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Game Wrap
AP: Nutt laments missed chances, Hicks, Roper, Washington all return against Auburn, Auburn rallies in first road test, bigger one upcoming
Rick Schaeffer: Wasted Opportunity

Updated 10/17/05 5:15 p.m. - Added additional links.

It's About the Experience

It’s time to rant a bit about the state of the Razorback football program. So here goes rant number 1. (There will be more to follow.) ...more...

My Thoughts - Auburn

My dad was a high school football head coach for over two decades and he's always had many sayings. But the one I always remember the most is, "The worst feeling in the world, son, is not being able to stop the other team." That was the sick feeling everyone in the stadium wearing red had last night. And while the defense was mostly at fault for that, the smash-mouth Auburn running game and the inept Hogs offense played their part, too.

And it's sad because just a little playcalling innovation on offense would do wonders. Everything we did offensively last night that was a little bit "different" was successful: the quick pass to Monk on the first drive; the McFadden reverse; the dump pass to Hillis dragging over the middle. All worked great and were a complete shock to the Auburn defense (and, quite frankly, the home crowd). Now if I could just name more than three new plays per game...we might be on to something here.

But you know...these "My Thoughts" posts are starting to get repetitive. Playcalling is simplistic and predictable, execution only good against the "lesser" teams, defense is worse than last year, etc. We aren't learning anything from our past games and this week was no different. Offense (second half sputtering), defense (24 straight points allowed) and special teams (blocked field goal) all played their part in the loss. But as this season languishes on, it feels like the tone of these weekly posts needs to get a little more blunt. So...here goes:

Robert Johnson should be replaced. There's no other way around it. As stated above, he wasn't completely responsible for the loss last night. But he also didn't do much of anything to keep it from happening. And while his completion numbers may always look decent, his turnovers and failures at the most crucial times...third downs and in the red zone...have shown he is not the man to lead this team on the field. And in that vein...

The season is over...it's time to find out who can play next year. That means seniors on the bench. That means experiments at all positions. That means more players exposed...both in good and bad ways. There is no need to wonder anymore if someone can play. If you're planning to redshirt some of them, fine by me. But the ones that aren't should start showing up on the participation report.

But here's the problem...if Houston Nutt doesn't win a couple more games, some are saying (even within the "homer" media) that he'll be fired. And it's been proven over the years that self-preservation is something that comes very naturally to HDN. Translation: "No changes...I need some wins...love that helmet."

Finally, Keith Jackson is on the way to becoming the next Joe Kleine. Listen to the heresy spoken by Jackson during the radio broadcast last night: "Send more receivers past the first down marker on third down." And: "Spread the offense. You've got the athletes to do it." Whoa there Keith...you better have a little talk with your former co-worker Joe Kleine. The ARSN company line will not be crossed. You will not go against "Big Daddy" Frank or the program. This is your final warning. Otherwise, Wally will be writing another "taking the bullet" column...but this time it'll be about you.

Also: Auburn -- HogBlogger Quick Thoughts

What are your thoughts? Leave a comment here.

Houston Nutt Press Conference - 10/16/2005

Hogwired.com: Houston Nutt Press Conference Transcript

On the problems the offense had in the red zone:

"We have got to be able to make some plays and control the ball very accurately under some pressure. Stay consistent. I feel good about our running game. Just like what Auburn tried to do. They came out throwing and mixing it up and you've got to be able to handle that, where as last year's quarterback would have handled it.

"Robert does some very good things, but there are times when I want him to make a few more plays and you’ve got to be able to do that consistently."

Auburn -- HogBlogger Quick Thoughts

Ok, I have to admit I was both right and wrong in my pre-game assessment of the Auburn game. I feared that we couldn’t score enough points to beat them, but felt that some easy early opportunities could give us a chance. ...more...

Post-Game Reports - Auburn 34, Arkansas 17

Robbie Neiswanger: Tigers Run Over Razorbacks With Strong Second Half
Mike Capshaw: McFadden Fights For 108 Yards
Grant Hall: Half A Loaf Not Enough for Hogs
Clay Henry: Auburn Goes Old School In Victory
Bob Holt: No second wind
Scott Cain: Tigers pave road to victory with stands and Instant Replay
Otis Kirk: Hogs lose ground in second half and Injury Report
Chris Givens: Bland Hogs blue in red zone
Rob Keys: Tigers take firm control behind line and Inside the Matchups
Democrat-Gazette: Reggie’s Review
Wally Hall: Halftime gives Tigers too long for adjustments

Auburn Coverage

The Birmingham News: Tigers have slow start, fast finish, Auburn: By the numbers, Auburn: Quoteworthy, The Irons horse
Mobile Register: Tigers overcome slow start, Injury spoils Lester's big day, The Auburn Report, Tub: Second-half play 'almost perfect'
The Huntsville Times: AU offensive line has plenty of cake, Auburn notebook, Tailback's big second half helps Tigers past Arkansas 34-17, Auburn by the numbers, Half makes up for hole AU digs

Updated 10/16/05 9:55 a.m. - Added additional links.

Auburn 34, Arkansas 17

Hogwired.com: Auburn Shuts Down Hog Ground Game for 34-17 Victory

Trailing 10-6 at halftime, No. 21 Auburn’s offense responded with a 73-yard touchdown drive to open the second half. Quarterback Brandon Cox connected with Devin Aromashodu for a 17-yard touchdown pass, giving the Tigers (5-1, 3-0) their first lead of the game, 13-10. After an Arkansas punt, Auburn held the ball for more than seven minutes during an 85-yard, 14-play drive that culminated in a five yard touchdown pass from Cox to running back Tre Smith. The Tigers led 20-10 at the end of the third quarter.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Post-game Notes, Photo Gallery, Final Stats (PDF), Post-Game Quotes
HawgsIllustrated.com: Auburn 34, Arkansas 17 (subscription)
AUTigers.com: Offensive Line Powers AU Past Pigs (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Second half sorrows (subscription)
AuburnSports.com: Tigers tame Hawgs (subscription)
ESPN.com: Auburn 34, Arkansas 17
SI.com: Play-by-Play
AP Photos: Robert Johnson 1, Houston Nutt, Darren McFadden, Peyton Hillis, Robert Johnson 2, Brandon Cox, Tommy Tuberville, Cooper Wallace

Updated 10/16/05 12:30 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. Auburn

Hogwired.com: Game Day Central

Auburn (4-1, 2-0 SEC) enters this weekend’s game riding a four-game winning streak. The Tigers lost their season opener to nationally-ranked Georgia Tech, but have reeled off wins against Mississippi State, Ball State, Western Kentucky and South Carolina since that time. Combined with wins in its final two games of 2003 and a perfect 13-0 record last season, Auburn has won 19 of its last 20 games.

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgSports.com: UA takes on AU (subscription)
Democrat-Gazette: Game Day
Bob Holt: Hogs take swing at upset and Position-by-position matchups
Chris Cocoles: Razorbacks’ Brown has no regrets
Robbie Neiswanger: Arkansas Searching For 'Big Win'
Mike Capshaw: Logan Helping Hogs Open Up
The Morning News: Keys To The Game and Head To Head
AP: Auburn ready to hit the road
Rick Schaffer: Hanging On The Balance
Al.com: Auburn Football
The Birmingham News: Run-crazy Hogs await Tigers' defensive line
The Huntsville Times: Auburn expecting whole Hogs
Mobile Register: Auburn's first road test comes against Arkansas

Basketball Reports - 10/14/2005

HawgsIllustrated.com: Young Love (subscription)
Grant Hall: Fans Cheer Current, Future Razorbacks
Scott Cain: 'Blue-collar' Hogs forget the fanfare

2005-06 Arkansas Razorbacks Basketball Media Day

Hogwired.com: Stan Heath Press Conference – Basketball Media Day

Stan Heath: "I want to contend and battle for the SEC championship, and I think we have a good chance to do that.

"Our team really excels in the open court and in an up-tempo game. We have to find ways to create that. I think that's a style our fans will enjoy watching us play.

"Our off-season has been very demanding. We put them through things that have really challenged them to make them tougher. This group is as close as it's ever been."

Also:

Hogwired.com: Fans Encouraged to Attend Basketball Practice Friday
Grant Hall: Heath States Bold Goals For Razorbacks and Allen Heard Good Things About Heath
Morning News Preview: Brewer, UA Guards Hope To Take Wing and Hunter Lends Help To UA Big Men
Nate Allen: Hogs to hold first practice tonight at Walton Arena
Scott Cain: Stopping the madness
Chris Cocoles: Razorbacks Basketball Report
AP: Heath eager to start season
HawgsIllustrated.com: State of the Hogs: Hoops (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Hawgs raising the bar (subscription)

Updated 10/14/05 1:10 p.m. - Added additional links.

Practice Reports - 10/13/2005

ARSN: Razorbacks Put Finishing Touches on Auburn Preparations

Senior tight end Jared Hicks turned in another good practice and is expected to be able to help the Razorbacks' offense on Saturday night.

"Jared Hicks got a lot of practice today," Nutt said. "I expect him to be able to get a few plays."

The status of Rimington Award candidate Kyle Roper is still up in the air. His availability will be a game-time decision.

"Kyle Roper is still not quite there yet," Nutt said. "I'm hoping by Saturday night that may be a little different."

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: Thursday Grid Report, 10/13 (subscription)
AUTigers.com: Tigers Put Finishing Touches On Plan For Hogs (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Hawgs ready for Tigers? and Auburn flying high (subscription)
AuburnSports.com: Back to business (subscription)
AP: Arkansas team gets in special-teams work and Auburn's Lester no longer so anonymous
Mike Capshaw: Roper Remains Questionable With Injury
Nate Allen: Hogs shuffle secondary for game with Auburn
Scott Cain: Auburn ’backers small but speedy
Bob Holt: Kickoff returns no time to blink
Rob Keys: Razorbacks Report

Updated 10/14/05 8:40 a.m. - Added additional links.

Raise The Roof...Windows

Hogwired.com: Club Areas Help Pump Up the Volume at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium

"The feedback from fans about the indoor club areas has been very positive since we opened the renovated stadium," Arkansas athletic director Frank Broyles said. "Fans enjoy the enclosed seating, but many missed the sounds of the band and the fans calling the Hogs. Now they will be able to be an active part of the crowd while still enjoying the comfort of our club areas. We are excited about this new addition to our stadium."

Who knows...maybe this is the one additional change that's been needed to help turn things around at Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

Auburn Comes Forth

So here we are, the biggest game of the year. Without a win Saturday, Bowl hopes (dreams) are gone. ...more...

$110 Million Buys You A 6-7 SEC Record

Robbie Neiswanger of The Morning News writes about the on-campus frustrations of the Razorbacks since Reynolds Razorback Stadium was renovated in 2001.

Arkansas, which has experienced more frustration than elation in big games on-campus lately, will try to buck the trend when it plays its most-anticipated home game of the season against No. 21 Auburn on Saturday. The Hogs are 14-8 in Razorback Stadium since the stadium's expansion in 2001 and, after its 28-24 loss to Vanderbilt here last month, are 6-7 in Southeastern Conference games during that stretch. They're also 1-3 against ranked teams.

Some results have been mind-boggling, like the 29-17 loss against Kentucky in 2002. Others have been heart-breaking, like the 22-20 loss against seventh-ranked Texas last September. Arkansas hasn't enjoyed the home-field advantage it envisioned, but the Razorbacks hope their recent on-campus frustrations will come to an end Saturday.
...
Arkansas didn't have much of a problem during Nutt's first three seasons on campus.

In fact, the Razorbacks won their first 15 home games -- in Little Rock and Fayetteville -- and were 17-2 from 1998-2000. That included an 8-2 mark in Fayetteville. Arkansas' dominance in Little Rock hasn't faded -- it is 9-1 there from 2001 to 2005 -- but the Hogs haven't experienced the same success on campus.

Practice Reports - 10/12/2005

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Prepares for Defensive Battle

Nutt also mentioned Auburn's excellent kickoff and punt return teams and the importance of UA’s special teams. The Tigers are leading the SEC and the NCAA in kickoff return yards with a 36.4 average. On punts they are averaging 10.22 yards.

"Special teams has to play a real important role," Nutt said. "They have good kickoff and punt return teams. It's going to take every phase and everyone on the sideline to win this ball game."

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgsIllustrated.com: Wednesday Grid Report, 10/12 (subscription)
AUTigers.com: Auburn Looking For Improvement Against Hogs (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Young Razorbacks gaining confidence (subscription)
AuburnSports.com: Stopping the run (subscription)
AP: Johnson thinks Razorbacks starting to establish offensive options and Arkansas works out in shorts for 90 minutes
Mike Capshaw: Hogs Making Changes On Defense
Nate Allen: Hogs to use bigger ends more against massive Auburn tackles
Chris Cocoles: Razorbacks Report
Mobile Register: Defense getting ready for running Razorbacks
Huntsville Times: AU expects Hogs to act hostile, not hospitable

Updated 10/13/05 9:00 a.m. - Added additional links.

SEC Football Conference Call - 10/12/2005

SECSports.com: 2005 SEC Football Coaches Press Conference - 10/12/2005

Houston Nutt:

(On facing Auburn) "We know that we are playing a very good football team. Auburn has a good defense and offense that has improved since day one. This should be a fun Saturday with a great atmosphere."

(On secondary technique) "We feel like that you are going to have one safety back and at times two safeties back. If we only have one safety back, that means we are trying to get another guy up for the run. If we do have one safety back, we need to get more aggressive on the receivers and take away the slant."

Tommy Tuberville:

(On facing Arkansas) "We are putting final preparations to our football team for this SEC game. We made some changes and we will look different on both offense and defense. Our first road game will be a different situation for our team and our quarterback. We have six straight weeks of tough games ahead."

(On speed at linebacker) "I got most of that philosophy from Jimmy Johnson in Miami. His emphasis was more on speed. When you go with speed, you have smaller players. We just kind of fell into it. It's been good to us. With zone blocking, you try to get as much speed on the field. It's a little easier to recruit a faster guy."

(On the ACC adding teams) "I don't think there is any doubt that when they added Miami that became a conference that rivals the SEC and in some ways made it even tougher. I thought all along that the SEC should have added some teams like that. The ACC beat us to the punch. I was apart of Miami for 10 years and I coached against Florida State and Boston College and Virginia Tech. Those are four premier teams and they could have their own conference."

Practice Reports - 10/11/2005

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Go to Work on Auburn

Auburn brings the nation's No. 2-ranked defense into the SEC showdown and Coach Nutt expects the Tigers to stack the box and force the Hogs to beat them through the air.

"Their defense is fast," Nutt said. "We can't make any mistakes. We have to take great first steps and proper angles, but we also have to be at our best blocking. These guys can run, and they know how to chase the ball. They do a great job of swarming the football. They are all back from last year, if that tells you something."

Also:

HawgsIllustrated.com: Tuesday Grid Update, 10/11 (subscription)
AUTigers.com: Tigers Brace For Powerful Hog Ground Attack (subscription)
AP: Auburn's Cox, Lester prepare for first road starts at Arkansas
Jerry L. Reed: Arkansas Prepares For Young Quarterback
Nate Allen: Roper, Washington return to UA practice
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Report
The Huntsville Times: Nutt's armor not showing cracks

Updated 10/12/05 8:50 a.m. - Added additional links.

Tuesday Preview - 10/11/2005

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Game Notes - Auburn Game

Arkansas and Auburn have met on the gridiron 14 times previously with the Tigers holding an 8-5-1 advantage. Auburn has won the last two meetings including a 38-20 victory last season at Auburn. Auburn also won the last meeting in Fayetteville (10-3) in 2003.

The series in Fayetteville is tied at 2-2 with Arkansas winning in 1999 and 2001 and Auburn earning a victory in 1997 and 2003. Since joining the SEC, Arkansas and Auburn have split games played inside Arkansas. In addition to the Fayetteville games listed above, the two teams split a pair of games at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Game Notes (PDF)
ARSN: Razorback Report
Robbie Neiswanger: Brown Happy To Be Back in Huddle
Jerry L. Reed: Auburn Still Flying Under The Radar
Scott Cain: Tigers yet to be tested
Bob Holt: Razorbacks Report
AP: Razorbacks preparing for Auburn
Mobile Register: Schedule just got tougher
Huntsville Times: '02 loss to Hogs still weighs heavily on AU
Kevin Scarbinsky: Broyles vetoes Tigers-Hogs pay-per-view

Monday Recap - 10/10/2005

Hogwired.com: McFadden, Snider and Dacus Named Hogwired.com Players of the Week

Freshman tailback Darren McFadden, freshman defensive end Zach Snider and sophomore middle linebacker Weston Dacus were each named Hogwired.com Players of Week after their outstanding performances in Arkansas’ win 44-15 over Louisiana-Monroe in Little Rock, Ark.

Also:

Robbie Neiswanger: Arkansas Offense Enjoys Feel-Good Performance
Mike Capshaw: Logan Helps Keep Redshirt On Coleman
Bob Holt: Freshmen praised for blocks and Razorbacks Game Wrap
Rick Schaeffer: Walking and Hoping To Win
AP: Arkansas hopes to build on lopsided win

Mitch Mustain -- Status?

After Stacey Dean's article on Scout.com regarding a conversation with Beck Campbell, Mitch's mom, I checked with some of my sources. What did I hear? ...more...

Offensive Thinking

Razorback fans have lately been (or, are forever, take your pick...) expressing their thoughts regarding "offense."

Perhaps to fuel that fire, or, at the least, to provide an educational opportunity, I recommend this link -- westcoastoffense.com.

Much good reading material on this site, including several articles by Bill Walsh and many other "name" coaches regarding "approach" not only to offense but to having a successful football program in general. You have to dig around a bit to find some of the really good stuff. Enjoy.

Added: Old, but interesting article from Sports Illustrated's "Dr. Z" on the "real" West Coast Offense. Razorback fans will remember that Joe Gibbs was on staff during the days of Montgomery and Ferguson.

My Thoughts - Louisiana-Monroe

Did we really learn anything? That's the problem with playing a team like ULM. There's three possible scenarios: 1) lose the game and start assembling the search committee; 2) win the game by a small margin and give the "dark side" more material; or 3) win the game by a large margin and really not know for sure if you're an improved team. Of course, the last option is the most acceptable. But it'll be another week before we really know if this team has gotten better since the Alabama game.

The good? The consistency of McFadden and Jones at tailback is a credit to them and this team's ability to execute the running game. Saturday night, of course, they both outclassed ULM. But after five games of solid production against both ranked and unranked teams, I would challenge anyone to name a better freshman tailback tandem in the country.

Positive special teams play continues to be one of the biggest surprises of the season. Getting an extra point blocked and giving up a fake field goal touchdown weren't good. But our coaches actually allowed our kicker to attempt a career long field goal...and it was made with distance to spare. Our kickoff return team has to be as good as any in the SEC. And after Peyton Hillis decided in the second half that he could catch a punt instead of watching it bounce in front of him, we even showed a sign that we could improve in that area as well.

The bad? Any opportunity to improve the passing game last night was squandered. Echoing HogBlogger's thoughts, we had 50 runs and 19 passes. Our SEC-worst average of 130.5 passing yards per game actually went down. And the Robert Johnson pass to Cedric Logan on a deep post pattern was badly overthrown. But the mock cheer after the play for just an attempt at a deep pass was priceless. Even the radio guys had to acknowledge the crowd and laugh about it. And really that's where we are in our passing game...you just have to laugh at it.

So did we see any improvement out of the off week? I thought the quantity and execution of screen plays was much better. After the two pathetic attempts at a deep ball this season (yes I said two...after five games), it's probably where we need to focus in the passing game anyway. But once again, we'll find out in the next few weeks if we can execute them as well against an SEC defense.

The ugly? How many plays does ARSN have to miss before they finally realize their commercial breaks are too long? Now granted, even if they get back on time, it's a challenge at times with Paul Eells to determine what's happening on the field. And it was bad enough that they missed most of the 80 yard touchdown run by Felix Jones against Missouri State (see here). But last night, in the fifth broadcast of the year, they continued to come out of commercial late and once missed two complete plays of a drive. The reason always given on the air is that it's the referee's fault. But when it happens every game, that excuse doesn't cut it anymore.

Houston Nutt Press Conference - 10/9/2005

Hogwired.com: Houston Nutt Press Conference Transcript

Keys to getting out early against Auburn:

"We've got to take care of the football and not beat ourselves. We have to execute, block and tackle and stop the run and be able to run the ball. We’ve got to throw some balls too. This game is going to be a rock 'em, sock 'em type game. You’ll have to buckle up both chinstraps. You’ll have to execute in the passing game and protect against a very good defensive line. If you watch the South Carolina, Georgia Tech and Mississippi State games, they don’t give up much on defense."

Louisiana-Monroe – HogBlogger Brief Thoughts

20 Passes. 49 runs. 29% or our plays were passes. We gained 119 yards passing.

I know. We ran for 321 yards and averaged 6.6 yards per attempt. We have two great freshman backs. I know.

Doing something that is easy against an inferior opponent is not something to feel good about.

Against Missouri State and Louisiana-Monroe we had the opportunity to work on our passing game. We had 108 passing yards against Missouri State.

Against the two weakest schools on our schedule we passed for a total of 227 yards.

We need to learn how to pass. We know how to run. SEC teams will be hard to beat if we can only run the ball.

Post-Game Reports - Arkansas 44, Louisiana-Monroe 15

AP Game Notes: Arkansas 44, Louisiana-Monroe 15

Arkansas rushed for 321 yards Saturday night despite being without center Kyle Roper, who sprained his right knee earlier in the week.

"He took a knee on the helmet Tuesday," coach Houston Nutt said. "We didn't think it would be this bad, but he couldn't get full range of motion."

Wide receiver Cedric Washington also missed the game with a hamstring injury, but linebacker Pierre Brown returned after spraining his knee against Vanderbilt on Sept. 10. Brown had seven tackles.

Also:

Robbie Neiswanger: Hogs Enjoy Big Win In Little Rock
Mike Capshaw: Offensive Shuffle Slows Hogs Early
Grant Hall: McFadden, Jones Give Hogs' Double Whammy
Clay Henry: Pressley Delivers For Hogs
Bob Holt: A fresh start
Scott Cain: Hogs' defense turns up the heat
Chris Givins: Hogs mix run, pass effectively
Otis Kirk: McFadden fumbles, then rumbles
Democrat-Gazette: Instant Replay
Rob Keys: Inside the Matchups
Wally Hall: Hogs need to get the most out of dynamic duo

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

Arkansas 44, Louisiana-Monroe 15

Hogwired.com: Freshmen Backs Lead Hogs Past ULM

Two freshmen rushed for 100 yards in the same game for the first time in Arkansas history as the Razorbacks rolled past Louisiana-Monroe 44-15 at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock.

Darren McFadden and Felix Jones combined for 227 yards rushing and four touchdowns to lead an Arkansas ground attack that amassed 321 yards rushing.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Final Stats (PDF), Postgame Notes, Postgame Quotes, Photo Gallery
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas 44, Louisiana-Monroe 15 (subscription)
HawgSports.com: Frosh backs show flash in blowout win (subscription)
ESPN.com: Arkansas 44, Louisiana Monroe 15
SI.com: Play-by-Play
The Razorback Legacy: Photos
AP Photos: Darren McFadden, Peyton Hillis, Brandon Kennedy and De'Arrius Howard, Zach Snider, Steven Jyles

Updated 10/10/05 9:00 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. Louisiana-Monroe

Hogwired.com: Game Day Central

Arkansas and ULM have met on the gridiron five times with the Razorbacks winning all five meetings. The Hogs recorded a 38-21 meeting over then-Northeast Louisiana in 1996 in Fayetteville in the first meeting between the two schools. Arkansas earned wins over ULM in 1997 (28-16) and 2000 (52-6) in games played in Fayetteville. The Hogs also defeated the Indians in 1999 (44-6) in Little Rock. The last meeting between the two squads came last year at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock. Arkansas came away with a 49-20 victory.

Arkansas and ULM are scheduled to meet in Little Rock in 2006, 2008 and 2010.

Also:

ARSN: Razorback Report
HawgSports.com: Hogs set for Indians (subscription)
Democrat-Gazette: Game Day
Bob Holt: Only winning welcomed and Position-by-Position Matchups
Chris Cocoles: Razorbacks defense wants to start a turnover trend
Robbie Neiswanger: Hogs Eager To Little Rock and Roll
Jerry L. Reed: Former Razorbacks Players Welcome Challenge
The Morning News: Head To Head and Keys To The Game
AP: Arkansas tries for another win at War Memorial
Rick Schaeffer: What Will Be Different?