Saturday, December 31, 2005

Arkansas 66, Texas Pan-American 38

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Pound Boards and Broncs, 66-38
Southeastern Conference leading scorer Ronnie Brewer scored just two points Friday but Arkansas went on to beat Texas-Pan American 66-38.
Also:

Hogwired.com: Post-Game Quotes, Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: Arkansas 66, Tx Pan American 38
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas 66, UTPA 38, Winning Ugly (subscription)
Grant Hall: Hogs Can Pan-Am
Jerry L. Reed: Razorbacks Get Early Scare In Latest Win
Nate Allen: Defense rules
Terry Wood: Hogs clear obstacle with defense, poise
Scott Cain: Getting a good yawn in
Rob Keys: Hogs coach not sweating shooting slump
AP Photos: Jonathon Modica, Dontell Jefferson

Thursday, December 29, 2005

USC Could Be 2006 Season Opener

Bob Holt writes in today's Democrat-Gazette that ESPN has contacted Arkansas about the possiblility of moving up the date of the September 9th game against Southern California to accomodate showing the game nationally on one of the "family of networks."

Could the Gus Malzahn offensive era begin against Pete Carroll and the Trojans? Wow...no pressure there or anything.

Wednesday, December 28, 2005

Mortensen To Transfer?

Bo Mattingly of KNWA reports tonight that backup quarterback Alex Mortensen is considering a transfer to either Louisville or Georgia Southern.

According to the report, Mortensen has received the required permission from Arkansas to evaluate other schools. If he were to leave, he would become the second Razorback quarterback to transfer after Cole Barthel left the team last month.

Mortensen, who is from Fairburn, Georgia, is the son of ESPN NFL reporter Chris Mortensen.

Also:

Bob Holt: UA QB looks at options

Updated 12/29/05 9:45 a.m. - Added additional links.

Tuesday, December 27, 2005

Top Razorback Stories of 2005

Our friends over at ARSN Online are counting down the top 10 Razorback stories of 2005. Good stuff...check it out.

Monday, December 26, 2005

Christmas Is For Quarterbacks

The Mobile Register published an article on Christmas Day talking about the great quarterbacks we have in the South and their college directions.

Dave Curtis of the Orlando Sentinal also had a nice write up on Mitch Mustain.

While in Atlanta for a television appearance, Mitch listed Notre Dame, Tennesee, Alabama and Arkansas as the top contenders.

The common thread in Mitch's thinking seems to center around which coaching staff and system offers him the greatest opportunity to succeed in the NFL one day.

A recent Sporting News article (subscription link not included) discussed the general lack of quarterbacking skills across the league today. Included in the discussion was the thought that "spread" offenses in college were partly to blame for the lack of development of NFL prospects - citing Alex Smith as a prime example.

Do you think Gus Mazahn and the use of the "spread" offense at Arkansas hurts or helps with the probability that Mitch chooses Arkansas? It's an interesting question.

Saturday, December 24, 2005

Blessings

HogBlogger and I want to extend to all of our readers a very Merry Christmas. We've had a lot of fun these past four and half months following the Razorbacks with you. (Although a few more wins would've been nice!)

I know for many of us, it's at this time of year when we all think the most about our blessings. I'll have the good fortune of spending the day with my family here in Northwest Arkansas. And HogBlogger is blessed to be able to do the same as well.

We know several of our readers are members of the armed forces stationed in-country and overseas. To you, we want say again how appreciative we all are for your efforts and your sacrifice. It can never be said enough...please stay safe.

And finally, I was reminded of blessings again tonight when I read about how Razorback legend Joe Ferguson is doing. (Thanks to Hoginstein for the link.)

As many of you know, Joe has been fighting cancer for some time now. I know I speak for everyone when I say how hopeful we are that Joe and his family have received the ultimate blessing this Christmas of a full and complete recovery.

Merry Christmas everyone.

Notre Dame All Done Recruiting?

In a story from today's South Bend Tribune, Charlie Weis plays it coy about whether Notre Dame is done recruiting quarterbacks and, thus, would not sign Mitch Mustain.
Weis was asked Friday if he was finished recruiting quarterbacks.

"We're pretty much done, period," he said. "There's not too much -- just a few guys we're involved with."
In a story published by the Associated Press late on Friday, Mustain's mother confirmed that he has narrowed his list of schools to Arkansas, Notre Dame, Tennessee and (recently added) Alabama.

Source: The Slop

Friday, December 23, 2005

Message Board Blues

Stopped by my friend Jay's absolutely great golf shop -- The Wooden Tee in Rogers, Ark. -- after my round of golf today and ran into Mike Irwin of KFSM Sports and a moderator on the Hogville.net website. Mike was making use of the cool PGA Tour van gadgets that Jay has for club fitting.

Mike's a great guy to talk to...loves Razorback sports. We talked a bit about fans and message boards. There are many people who profess to be Razorback fans out there who continue to take shots at Mitch Mustain for the uncertainty in his decision making process. Both Hogville and Hawgs Illustrated have fans that seem to be into senseless trashing of Mitch and our program just to see themselves type. Mike mentioned that they are making a big effort to "clean up" Hogville in regards to people who just seem to exist to trash.

I've been watching these negative posts for quite a while. Mitch supposedly is an avid reader of the Razorback message boards. I'm told he even posts on the message boards, and has argued (using screen names, which don't reveal who you are) with fans in the threads who were presuming to know what his thoughts were. The word I've gotten is that the last few weeks have been very tough on Mitch. I'm suspecting he's not really sure of what he wants to do.

A simple point should be remembered. The is not over until signing day. Will Mitch be able to tell Gus "no" when Gus sits down in Mitch's living room?

Let's give the boy a chance to make up his mind without making it up for him by trashing him on the message boards.

Wednesday, December 21, 2005

Arkansas 78, Texas Tech 65

ESPN.com: Arkansas 78, Texas Tech 65
Jonathon Modica scored 15 points and Dontell Jefferson added a season-high 14, helping Arkansas overcome an off game from Ronnie Brewer to beat Texas Tech 78-65 Wednesday night.

The Razorbacks (9-2) won their seventh straight and upped their winning streak in Dallas to 19 in a row -- even if it has been 11 years since they visited the city.
Also:

Hogwired.com: Balanced Effort Helps Arkansas Knock off Texas Tech, Final Stats (PDF)
Grant Hall: McCurdy's Heave Sparks Hogs Past Tech and Hipshers In The House
Harry King: American Airlines' seat is bad view
Nate Allen: Highlight shot
Scott Cain: Determined in Dallas
Wally Hall: Razorbacks deflate Red Raiders, bloated coach
Fort Worth Star-Telegram: Tech stung by first-half long shot

Updated 12/22/05 10:05 a.m. - Added additional links.

Tonight We Beat Knight

Tonight the basketball Razorbacks face Bobby Knight for the first time ever. Based on what I've seen of Texas Tech on TV, we should beat then handily. Even though this is "just Texas Tech," beating Coach Knight and a team that has been participating in March Madness lately will be good.

It's time to take a poll. Is this year's team only "better" or is it "much better" than last year?

Tell us what you think.

Tuesday, December 20, 2005

Mustain To Be Parade Player Of The Year

According to published reports, Mitch Mustain will be named the 2006 Parade Football Player of the Year by Parade magazine.

Mustain, who was announced as the 2005-06 Gatorade National Football Player of the Year two weeks ago, officially re-opened his recruitment earlier this month after committing to the Razorbacks in August.

Update: Mustain has also been selected as the USA Today Offensive Player of the Year.

Rick Fires: Player of the year parade starts, ends with Mustain
Kurt Voigt: Honors Continue To Pile Up For Mustain

Updated 12/21/05 8:45 a.m. - Added additional links.

Coaching Interviews Continue

Houston Nutt interviewed Alex Wood on Monday and Randy Sanders two weeks ago to fill the remaining vacant coaching position on his staff, according to a story by Mike Capshaw in Tuesday's Morning News.

Other potential candidates mentioned in the article are Louisiana-Monroe offensive coordinator Todd Berry and Alabama-Birmingham offensive coordinator Pat Sullivan.

It appears that Houston Texans receivers coach Kippy Brown is no longer a leading candidate for the position.

Update: Nate Allen and Bob Holt provide additional information (including quotes) from the interview of Alex Wood on Monday.

Nate Allen: Former NFL assistant interviews for Razorbacks' coaching vacancy
Bob Holt: Wood 'well-rounded' applicant, Nutt says

Updated 12/20/05 9:30 a.m. - Added additional links.

Sunday, December 18, 2005

Malzahn's Impact

Since he was hired a little over a week ago, most everyone has agreed that Gus Malzahn will be an agent of change on the Hill.

His potential impact on the coaching staff and on the current and (hopefully) future quarterbacks is the topic of discussion in today's state newspapers.

Arkansas 80, Rice 61

Hogwired.com: Brewer Leads Arkansas to an 80-61 Win over Rice
Arkansas' Ronnie Brewer scored 11 of his 17 points in the second half to lead the Razorbacks to an 80-61 victory Saturday night over the Rice Owls.
Also:

Hogwired.com: Post-Game Quotes, Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: Arkansas 80, Rice 61
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas 80, Rice 61 (subscription)
ARSN (Video): Brewer Leads Arkansas to an 80-61 Win over Rice
Grant Hall: Hogs' Press Fuels Win Over Rice
Jerry L. Reed: Thomas, Townes Tough To Handle
Morning News: Former Hog Bradley Serves as Color Analyst
Scott Cain: Enjoying fried Rice
Bob Holt: Townes, 6-10 , taking performance to highest level
Democrat-Gazette: In the Lane
AP Photos: Steven Hill

Updated 12/18/05 1:45 p.m. - Added additional links.

Friday, December 16, 2005

Mustain "Not In A Hurry"

Mitch Mustain tells Chris Bahn of the Democrat-Gazette that he's "not in a hurry" to make his big decision. "We have finals this week. I’m working three days a week. There is really no time right now."

Meanwhile, Gus Malzahn wants Razorback fans to rest assured that "All-Everything" running back Darren McFadden will get the ball next year...a lot.

Thursday, December 15, 2005

Arkansas 79, Missouri State 75

Hogwired.com: Ferguson Free Throws Help Hogs Hold Off Missouri State
Ronnie Brewer passed the career 1,000-point mark with a 3-pointer Thursday night that gave Arkansas a 7-point lead with 15:38 remaining and the Razorbacks went on to get a 79-75 victory over Missouri State.
Also:

Hogwired.com: Post-Game Quotes, Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: Arkansas 79, Missouri State 75
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas 79, Missouri State 75, Physical Brewer (subscription)
ARSN (Video): Total team effort gives Hogs 79-75 win over Missouri State
Grant Hall: Hogs Hold Off Bears, Barely
Jerry L. Reed: Arkansas Bench Comes To Rescue In Win Against Missouri State
Ryan Aber: Thomas, Townes Overcome Injuries To Help Hogs
Nate Allen: Hogs win thriller over tough Missouri State
Scott Cain: Hogs snare meaningful close victory over the Bears and Picking it up on the perimeter
Bob Holt: Hogs keep Bears cold outside
Chris Cocoles: Ferguson delivers key plays for UA
AP Photos: Charles Thomas, Dontell Jefferson, Ronnie Brewer, Dontell Jefferson

Updated 12/16/05 9:00 a.m. - Added additional links.

Really A Coincidence?

Stewart Mandel of SportsIllustrated.com asks what many have wondered: Is the hiring of Gus Malzahn so soon after Mitch Mustain's announcement just a coincidence...or more of a calculated move?

Source: The Slop

Wednesday, December 14, 2005

Nutt Interviewing To Complete Staff

Articles today from Nate Allen and Bob Holt indicate that Alex Wood, former offensive coordinator for the Arizona Cardinals, wide receivers coach for the Cincinnati Bengals and quarterbacks coach for the Minnesota Vikings, will be interviewed this weekend to fill the final vacancy on the Arkansas coaching staff.

Other candidates mentioned are Houston Texans receivers coach Kippy Brown and, interestingly, Randy Sanders, former offensive coordinator at Tennessee.

To me, putting Sanders and Gus Malzahn together seems to be a strange fit from an offensive philosophy standpoint. But Sanders could certainly provide Malzahn with another experienced eye for breaking down SEC defenses.

In addition, strongly considering Sanders when many have felt a minority hire was the expected move is surprising. The potential recruiting backlash that could occur with only one minority on the coaching staff (Tracy Rocker) would seem to make the Sanders hire an unlikely one.

Tuesday, December 13, 2005

Break's Over - Missouri State To Test Hogs

This article from ARSN on the approaching Missouri State game is filled with interesting stats that give context to this year's Razorback squad and current players. Worth making your way through.

The 3-point shooting of undefeated Missouri State should test our defense Thursday night. I look forward to enjoying the show. Thanks to ARSN for putting the game on television thus ensuring I can sit anywhere I want in Bud Walton.

I'll know our team this year is getting people excited when I actually have to sit in my assigned seat for a game and tickets aren't being given away outside.

Scorned

Reading the Arkansas message boards and the feelings that many fans have about Mitch Mustain's decision to open up his recruiting reminds me of the phrase, "a woman scorned."

The anger being expressed at Mitch is absolutely senseless. February is a while away, and until signing day this deal is not done. Taking this "if he doesn't want us, piss on him" approach and accusing him of misrepresenting his true intentions simply to take off the recruiting and fan base heat - in fact accusing him of a lack of integrity - does not exactly create a base of motivation for him to join the Razorback program. Some would like for Mitch to shun Arkansas because that seems to them to be a reason that Houston Dale should be gone.

I would like for Mitch to be a part of the program. I believe Casey Dick and Alex Mortensen can flourish in Gus Malzahn's system. The Arkansas program is bigger than any particular star football player. Lou Holtz said before an Orange Bowl once, "we are going to take the players we have and play an excellent football game." As most fans will recall, we did.

To be successful we need a lot of good football players that 1) want to be at Arkansas 2) and want to give their all for the team. Without that base, all the coaching and systems in the world can't accomplish much.

I wish Mitch the best in whatever he wants to do. It's his life, not ours.

Felix Jones Named All-American

Return specialist Felix Jones became the first Razorback freshman to make an All-American team, as selected by College Football News.

Maybe next year we can trust him to return punts as well...

Monday, December 12, 2005

Mustain Speaks

After all the anxiety generated with his decision to re-open his recruitment last week, Mitch Mustain finally goes on the record and speaks for himself in an article in today's Morning News by Kurt Voigt.

Saturday, December 10, 2005

Now They're Talking

Many of the empty seats on the Razorback football bandwagon were quickly filled yesterday with the announcement of Gus Malzahn as offensive coordinator.

Houston Dale, after coming to the conclusion that actually having the Razorback coaching job was more important than potentially calling plays each week for a mid-major program, gave into popular demand that he do less to earn his money.

When the combination of "no one else will come as offensive coordinator" collided with the "how can I go wrong by hiring the guy everyone wants me to hire," the choice was easy. Gus, using the situation in as opportunistic manner as possible, was able to negotiate for seemingly total control of the offense, providing fans what they wanted - it's out of Houston Dale's hands - and Houston Dale exactly what he needs to further his survival -- now we can blame Gus.

Coach Broyles can be very succinct -- this is a way for Houston Dale to "live longer."

I've watched Gus and his program(s) for several years now. His teams are very organized and well coached - certainly beyond what we've seen out of Houston Dale's offense lately. Whether he can, or will be allowed to, bring this to his role at Arkansas will have to be seen.

My sense is that we should expect a fairly steep learning curve as he grows acquainted with the college ranks. He'll be matching wits with people unlike any he's faced so far. Watching the process will be fun, with maybe some painful times. I don't expect it to be boring.

Friday, December 09, 2005

Malzahn Named Offensive Coordinator

Hogwired.com: Gus Malzahn Named as UA Offensive Coordinator
Renowned Arkansas high school football coach Gus Malzahn has joined the Razorbacks coaching staff as offensive coordinator it was announced by UA head coach Houston Nutt on Friday. Malzahn recently completed his fifth season at Springdale High School with a perfect 14-0 season and a state championship in the state’s largest classification.
Also:

Hogwired.com: Press Conference Transcript
ESPN.com: Arkansas hires high school coach as O coordinator
KFSM (Video): Arkansas hires Malzahn as offensive coordinator
KTHV (Video): Gus Malzahn Named Offensive Coordinator For Razorbacks
HawgSports.com: It's a done deal (subscription)
HawgsIllustrated.com: Malzahn named OC at Arkansas (subscription)
Ryan Aber: Malzahn Named UA Offensive Coordinator
Mike Capshaw: Razorbacks Realign Coaching Staff and Hogs Search For Final Piece
Jerry L. Reed: Ex-Players Applaud Malzahn Hiring
Nate Allen: Red Dog to Red Hog
Bob Holt: In Gus they trust and Best fit to decide position jobs
Scott Cain: Hogs' Nutt hands over play calling and Same faces, new places for most of UA staff
Chris Bahn: Malzahn seeking the right balance
Rob Keys: Malzahn’s job to include wooing of former players
Rick Fires: Springdale prospects' plans unchanged despite hiring and Building trust with other coaches biggest issue for Malzahn
Otis Kirk: Experts say coordinator will help UA
Rick Schaffer: Malzahn Hired
AP Photos: Gus Malzahn, Houston Nutt

Updated 12/10/05 9:15 a.m. - Added additional links.

Coaching Staff Changes Announced

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Announces FB Staff Changes
Arkansas head football coach Houston Nutt announced staff changes for the 2006 season on Friday. Quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator Roy Wittke will not be retained for the 2006 season and assistant coaches Chris Vaughn, Clifton Ealy and James Shibest will take on new duties in the Razorback football program. In addition, director of football operations Louis Campbell will return to the field as a defensive assistant coach and his assistant Rob Taylor will assume Campbell’s post as the football program’s top administrator.

Malzahn Press Conference

According to TipsterHog sources and several online message boards, Guz Malzahn informed his Springdale players this morning that he will be announced as the new Hogs offensive coordinator at a 1:00 p.m. press conference this afternoon.

The Other Nutt Statement

Looking for a definitive statement from Houston Nutt? You won't find it here. But you will find it in the other statement released out of the Broyles Complex on Thursday:
"I have not been contacted and am not a candidate and will not be a candidate for any prospective coaching vacancy at the University of Colorado. I am busy recruiting and working on the future of the Razorback program."

Malzahn Reportedly Offered Job

Ryan Aber reports in today's Morning News that Springdale (Ark.) High School coach Gus Malzahn has been offered a "prominent job" on the Arkansas coaching staff.

While not confirmed in the story, most believe the position of Razorbacks offensive coordinator is now Malzahn's to turn down. Unfortunately, he would be in good company if he did that as it's been widely speculated that David Cutcliffe was close to accepting the position before deciding to take the same role at Tennessee last week.

Thursday, December 08, 2005

Nutt Statement

Hogwired.com: Statement from Houston Nutt to Razorback Fans
"I know that over the past two weeks there has been a lot of discussion about what changes may or may not take place in the Razorback football program."
devoid. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000.
1) ...completely lacking; destitute or empty...

5 Strikes and You're Out?

If Mitch Mustain doesn't come to Arkansas, does Andrew Norman, the only Arkansas committed member of the Springdale 5, re-open his recruiting? I'm hearing that he might do just that and choose between Iowa and Louisville.

It's a long time to signing day, but at the moment it appears the Springdale "strike out" potential is high.

Also, Tipster is telling me that my previous post was wrong and that, in fact, all hope is lost. Suggested we organize a march on the Broyles Complex. I told him it wouldn't do any good. Apparently no one is at home.

McFadden & Company

Darren McFadden awards to date:

Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Year - SEC Coaches and Associated Press
First team All-SEC - SEC Coaches and Associated Press
Freshman All-American - Rivals.com
Freshman All-American - CollegeFootballNews.com

Averaged 6.3 yards per carry, 101.2 yards per game.
School records for rushing yards (1,113), 100-yard rushing games (5) and touchdowns by a freshman (11).

This guy was pretty good. Especially considering how beat up our offensive line was for the better part of the season.

Sam Olajubutu was named All-SEC first team by the SEC coaches. CollegeFootballNews.com Freshman All-America team included linebacker Freddie Fairchild and kick returner Felix Jones on the first-team and center/guard Jonathan Luigs on the second team. Jones was also named All-SEC second team by the SEC coaches as a return specialist.

With the emergence of the defense as the year progressed and the promise at quarterback provided by Casey Dick, Razorback fans do have opportunity for hope for next year.

I think everyone should just calm down over Mitch Mustain and the offensive coordinator coach debacle. It is a mess, and in some ways it's a totally stupid mess. But whatever happens we will have a football program next year and we have a lot of really great kids that will be playing. All is far from lost.

Wednesday, December 07, 2005

Everything Is Just About The Same

To help refresh the memories of those not keeping up, I offer up the following blog items that were written during the season that discussed the "will Houston Dale be the coach next year?" issue. They still apply.

Free Pass?, Free Pass? (2), Free Pass? (3)

The things to keep in mind...

Lindsey/Broyles feel they have a commitment to Houston Dale. Coach Broyles will let Houston Dale make his own bed and sleep in it. Houston Dale can leave, or still get himself "runt oft'ed." Houston Dale will be challenged to want to do what they are asking. Not doing something they want him to do, or being stubborn about it (imagine that from him) could get him "runt oft'ed." There is an element of "power" to this. There's someone in the process that wants to have the "say." Neither Lindsey, Butch, or the program really want that to happen.

The new thing that comes into play right now is the idea that Houston Dale leaving at this time will set the program back. With Coach Broyles and his history with coaches, who worth having is going to want to come here? I think those that argue this have a pretty good point. As well, we have the makings of a pretty good team coming back. On the contrary, recruiting is looking pretty loose right now.

Truthfully, Mitch Mustain coming to Arkansas never made much sense to me. Lots of pressure, lack of any real quarterback tradition, kinda second rate in the conference, been down for a while, coach on the hot seat, primarily a running team. Alternatives are name schools that have sent quarterbacks to the NFL, and coaches that are proven tutors of NFL quarterbacks (Weis, Cutcliffe).

Mitch is most likely gone. I've heard Notre Dame since early October. The success of Charlie Weis and Brady Quinn got his attention. Can't blame him.

Today's situation remind me of the words from a John Prine song (yes, I'm old) -- "actually everything is just about the same."

It's No Shock...

Rivals.com on the recruiting status of the nation's top high school quarterbacks.
It's no shock given the alleged assistant coach shuffling in Fayetteville that Mustain wants to look around or that Tennessee, Florida and South Carolina were the three SEC schools mentioned in connection with the nation's No. 2 pro-style quarterback prospect.

It was widely-speculated that once David Cutcliffe got back into coaching that Mustain would give whatever school Cutcliffe landed at a look. So it's no shock that Tennessee has entered the mix.

Tuesday, December 06, 2005

Arkansas 73, Texas State 67

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Survive Three-Point Barrage by Bobcats
Arkansas had a 35-30 rebounding advantage, shot 49.1 percent (27-55), blocked 12 shots, had eight steals and turned the ball over only 10 times, but the Hogs forced only 11 turnovers and gave up 12 offensive rebounds.
Also:

Hogwired.com: Post-Game Quotes, Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: Arkansas 73, Texas State 67
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas 73, Texas State 67 (subscription)
Grant Hall: Hogs' Hill Blocks Persistent Bobcats
Ryan Aber: Dennis Nutt Returns To Arkansas
Jerry L. Reed: Razorbacks Center Has Record Night On Court
Nate Allen: Blocking an upset
Scott Cain: Understated getaway
AP Photos: Steven Hill

Updated 12/7/05 9:55 a.m. - Added additional links.

Wag The Dog

The Associated Press has updated their story to say that Beck Campbell is now "distancing herself" from the reports that her son, Mitch Mustain, has re-opened his recruiting process.
Tuesday morning, however, Campbell told The Associated Press, "We're in the process of trying to put out fires that somebody decided to start -- beyond our control. Right now, until that gets straightened out, I can't comment on anything.
To me, the timing of this "leak" is now starting to look much more suspicious. While I do believe that Mustain will seriously consider other schools, with the "mess" currently in progress on the Hill, I get the feeling that Mustain (and his family) may be attempting to add their input into how they want things to end up.

If that's true, I'd say they are succeeding up to this point...

Mess? There's No Mess...

I was amused yesterday on the Hawgs Illustrated message board at a thread that argued that the current situation regarding possible Razorback football coaching changes was not a "mess." Said they wouldn't mind losing 2 or 3 recruits, that "we should take the time to work this out right."

Let's see, offensive coordinator .....Cutcliffe is coming, yeah!....nope......."I haven't told Houston anything...If I do that I ought to be fired"........David Lee, nope, been there done that, like the NFL........sounds like it is going to be Wittke, so Houston Dale can keep calling plays, after all, he is in charge....whoops....overruled by upper management apparently telling Houston Dale something........upper management apparently not fired, which makes sense because we learned in the Nolan trial that responding to the press is situational and may have nothing to do with the ultimate reality, although we did note that Coach Broyles got a new boss last week........prized recruit Mitch Mustain now giving indications that he may let someone else other than Arkansas saddle him up next year.........withdraws commitment.....after all, he was thinking Notre Dame once...when Cutcliffe was there....talking to him.....

Right.......no mess........Coach Broyles has never meddled with or played mind games with coaches and fans.......Houston Dale is not stubborn........any coach would love to come and work here with Coach Broyles and Houston Dale.....this is not a mess.....repeat.....this is not a mess...repeat...this is NOT a mess.

Lack Of Communication

Beck Campbell, the mother of Mitch Mustain, provides some explanation to Otis Kirk and Chris Bahn of the Democrat-Gazette as to why her son is reconsidering his verbal commitment to Arkansas.
"Nobody has told us anything," Campbell said. "We read in the paper that Coach Wittke is gone. Nobody has called and told us that. We're like everybody else, waiting to see what they are going to do."

Monday, December 05, 2005

Mustain To Re-Open Recruitment

Back on August 15th, Razorback fans were on cloud nine.

Now that cloud has turned dark and ominous as posts on numerous Internet message boards confirm tonight that Springdale (Ark.) High School quarterback Mitch Mustain has backed away from his verbal commitment to the Hogs and will visit other schools.

During his state championship winning season, Mustain has continued to be ranked by several services as the number one quarterback in the country.

And just earlier this evening, Mustain was announced as the 2005-06 Gatorade National Football Player of the Year.

As you might imagine, HogBlogger and I will have much more to say on this in the days and weeks ahead. Until then, all I can say right now is...shit.

Leave It To The Computers?

West Virginia Metro News: Arkansas' Nutt Admits Error
University of Arkansas football coach Houston Nutt is apologizing to WVU football coach Rich Rodriguez.

A spokesperson at Arkansas says Nutt mistakenly left the Mountaineers off his final ballot in the USA Today Coaches poll, which was released on Monday.
Whoops...maybe those BCS computers are more reliable.

McFadden Named SEC Freshman of the Year

The Associated Press announced their All-SEC Football team today and Razorback running back Darren McFadden was named the SEC Freshman of the Year along with First Team All-SEC honors.

Also honored were center Kyle Roper (second team), defensive tackle Keith Jackson (second team), linebacker Sam Olajubutu (second team) and running back Felix Jones (honorable mention).

Razorback Basketball -- Work in Progress

Nate Allen writes today about "hope" for the Razorback basketball team. Although we've not written much in the blog about the basketball team, we have been paying close attention to how the team "looks" this year. This is my take at this point.

We are 1) tougher and 2) either better coached, or finally taking to the coaching, or maybe just one year older and more experienced, or a combination of all three (my bet). The team shows a lot more promise than at this time last year.

Ronnie Brewer is obviously the key to this team. He is much better than last year. However, not to take anything away from him, I'm not ready to declare him a lottery pick. Maybe by year end, but not now. But he is very, very good. Beyond Ronnie, every player back from last year appears improved.

Several things show promise. Defense, transition game, offensive sets, player and ball movement (at times), court savy, teamwork. Are these good enough to take us to the highest level of college basketball? Not yet. We are growing, will continue to grow during the year, and we will see growing pains. Interior defense, big people in foul trouble (Hill), may struggle in physical games, offensive stagnation will still occur at times and we will have periods of time we struggle for points. We are not there yet.

The team did not grow and progress last year as I expected it would. This year's version will be challenged to grow and progress. Expect a work in progress.

Nearly Forgotten Anniversary

I saw a commercial over the weekend for the Big 12..."Better Together" it said as they celebrated their 10 year anniversary. (Somehow I don't think the Colorado fans feel very "together" right now with the rest of their Big 12 "friends.")

At any rate, that also means, of course, that it's been that long since the demise of the Southwest Conference. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram (the "Startlegram" as the locals call it) has a nice little article on the five ways the SWC could have been saved.

Number one on their list: "Keep Arkansas."

Saturday, December 03, 2005

The "Mess" Marches On

Dudley Dawson stated on Sports Rap Friday afternoon that it was his understanding that current Razorback quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator Roy Wittke had been overruled by "upper management" as an appropriate choice for offensive coordinator. Wittke did not attend Friday's luncheon for visiting recruits. According to Bo Mattingly, Wittke is "out" as a coach at Arkansas.

Obviously John White is now meddling in the affairs of the football program, else Athletic Director (Coach) Frank Broyles, according to no other authority than himself, should be fired for telling Houston Dale what to do.

Ok, maybe not. In this case Coach Broyles is just telling Houston Dale what he can't do. According to Spock on Star Trek, "a difference which makes no difference is no difference at all." But hey, this is Arkansas. We have people from this state than can wax eloquently on the multiple definitions of "is."

Wittke may be a great choice, but he has already been here and not been allowed to perform. Now suddenly (apparently) he was about to be the chosen one?

This just sounds bad. It makes it appear that, whoever might show up, Houston Dale is only going to let go if ordered to do so by Coach Broyles. I can't imagine why any up and coming coach is going to want to jump into this situation.

Wittke Reportedly Out

Razorback Nation: Source: Roy Wittke Out at Arkansas
Bo Mattingly reports that a credible source, close to the Razorback football program says (quarterbacks coach) Roy Wittke was informed Thursday he is no longer in the running for the offensive coordinator position and will be let go.

Friday, December 02, 2005

Arkansas 66, Missouri 63

Hogwired.com: Jefferson Free Throws Big in Win Over Missouri Again
Brewer made six-of-12 shots and finished with a game-high 20 points to go with four rebounds, four assists and two steals. Modica shot 50 percent from the field for the sixth time in seven games, going seven-of-13 to finish with 19 points.

Thomas had 11 points and four rebounds. Darian Townes had eight points and seven rebounds. The leading shot blocker in the Southeastern Conference coming in with 2.33 per game, he had six rejections.
Also:

Hogwired.com: Post-Game Quotes, Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: Arkansas 66, Missouri 63
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas 66, Missouri 63 (subscription)
Grant Hall: Modica Bests Gardner; Hogs Nip Mizzou
Mike Capshaw: Missouri's Rally Comes Up Short
Jerry L. Reed: Arkansas Benefits From Large Crowd
Ryan Aber: Emotional Outbursts Propel Razorbacks
The Kansas City Star: Arkansas survives Mizzou rally
Nate Allen: Tigers by the tail
Terry Wood: Hogs click in the clutch, top Missouri
Scott Cain: Answering the call
Bob Holt: In the Lane
Rob Keys: Modica’s 3-point play helps Hogs hang on
Chris Cocoles: Missouri realizing it has some toughness
St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Tigers rally but miss chance for OT
AP Photos: Ronnie Brewer

Updated 12/3/05 9:55 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. Missouri

Hogwired.com: Game Day Central
Missouri is coming off a 60-42 win at home over Missouri-Kansas City on Tuesday. The Tigers are 2-1 after opening the season with an 80-77 setback to Sam Houston State and topping Northwestern State, 81-72.

Quin Snyder is in his seventh season as head coach. Missouri was 16-17 last year with three starters and eight lettermen back from that squad.
Also:

Hogwired.com: Stan Heath Press Conference - Missouri, Arkansas Game Notes - Missouri, Game Notes (PDF)
Grant Hall: Hogs, Tigers Renew Spirited Rivalry
Ryan Aber: MU's Gardner Seeks Revenge Against Brewer, Razorbacks
Nate Allen: Mizzou hoping to leave Bud Walton Arena with upset victory tonight
Scott Cain: Roles are reversed for UA, Missouri
The Kansas City Star: Missouri high on Hogs

Thursday, December 01, 2005

Hogs vs. Horns on the Hardcourt

Back in early October, Dave Van Horn announced that the Razorbacks and Texas Longhorns would compete on the baseball diamond starting in 2007.

Now according to the Bevo Beat blog of The Austin American-Statesman, the Hogs and Horns will meet for the next four years on the basketball court as well.

Update 4/24/06: The baseball series has now been called off.