Washington 5, Arkansas 2

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Drop First Game of Season to Washington, 5-2

No. 11 Arkansas was unable to overcome a four-run first inning by Washington and dropped its first game of the 2006 season in a 5-2 loss on Tuesday in the opening game of the First Title Hawaii Baseball Tournament at Les Murakami Stadium.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Box Score (PDF)
Mike Capshaw: Washington Hands Hogs First Loss, Homers Not Welcome In Hawaii
Democrat-Gazette: Huskies get jump on Hogs
The Honolulu Advertiser: Baseball 'Bows rained out

Updated 3/1/06 8:55 a.m. - Added additional links.

2006 Diamond Hogs Outlook

So after reading here yesterday about how great Razorbacks hurler Nick Schmidt is pitching, what else do I see are the strengths of this year's team? And what are areas of concern?

Well, at the end of yesterday's post, I cryptically mentioned freshman catcher David Hum. And what was probably even more confusing was that I linked to a bio that said he would have to sit out this season. Up until about a week ago, it looked like that was going to be the case.

Hum, a native of Little Rock, attended Notre Dame in the fall and was apparently unhappy there. At mid-term he decided to leave the land of the Blue and Gold and move back a little closer to home. But when he attempted to transfer and enroll at Arkansas, Hum wasn't immediately granted a release by the Fighting Irish.

When I first heard about Hum's situation, I couldn't understand that at all. Typically a release is a formality in college baseball. Dave Van Horn has granted many of them since he's been a head coach. His thinking is that he doesn't want to keep a player who doesn't want to stay.

So why did Notre Dame hold out until a week ago before finally releasing Hum? After hearing what it sounded like when Hum's bat hit the ball in his first game as a Razorback last Friday, I now think I know why.

The guy crushes the ball. Even his foul balls are loud...and potentially dangerous. The Irish were obviously hoping they could pressure Hum into returning to South Bend.

But now he's someone to keep an eye on in Fayetteville as the season moves forward. Who knows...he may not be able to hit a curve ball. But he's definitely shown this fan and others that he has the potential to make this team even better than expected.

So who else looks good? Jake Dugger appears to be in the groove again after a lackluster sophomore season. And Van Horn is going to have to somehow find a spot in the batting order for senior Chris Hollensworth, who's currently leading the team with a .458 average.

I was also impressed with the savvy of freshman infielder James Ewing. Like Dugger, the best way to describe Ewing is that he's just simply a baseball player. Looks the part...plays the part...seems to have a feel for the game.

As for areas of concern, the most obvious one at the moment is pitcher Charley Boyce. After off-season surgery, he's just not performing at the same level right now as he has for most of the last three years. My money is that will get turned around. If not, look for junior college transfer Chris Rhoads or the re-emerging Shaun Seibert to move into the starting rotation.

Injuries to center fielder Craig Gentry and infielder John Henry Marquardt, both returning senior starters from last year, are also a nagging concern.

But at 9-0 and currently ranked as high as #11 in the polls, there's not too much to be concerned about at the moment. I would, however, be surprised if they were still undefeated after playing five games in five days at the Rainbow Tournament in Hawaii this week. The pitching depth just doesn't seem to be there for this team to win that many games in such a short span of time.

But who knows...that's why they play the games. Go Hogs!

Pre-Tournament Reports - Rainbow Tournament

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Treks to Hawaii for Rainbow Baseball Tournament

No. 11 Arkansas is in Honolulu, Hawaii, this week for the First Title Rainbow Baseball Tournament at Les Murakami Stadium. The Razorbacks will play five games in five dayd to wrap up a stretch of eight games in 10 days.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Rainbow Tournament (PDF)
Mike Capshaw: Hogs Look For Hawaiian Punch
Rick Fires: Razorbacks' concentration put to test at Rainbow Classic
The Honolulu Advertiser: Tough pitchers in UH tourney
Honolulu Star-Bulletin: UH opens tourney ranked 24th

Cheers To The Hogs

With the win over Tennessee, the Razorback basketball team appears to have gotten positioned to actually make the NCAA Tournament. I confess to being amazed.

It has been good to see them "come on" and have these big victories in the last 3 games. What has happened to bring us beyond "close" and into actually winning?

I think Ole Miss was a gut check time. They had to be embarrassed by losing that game. Especially Townes, who was basically a no show.

Three games ago I would have said that no players other than Steven Hill and Charles Thomas were showing the type of consistent effort required to win. Yes, Brewer and Modica were playing well enough to "get their points" but both would have letdowns at key points that were making a difference. Typically, no one else even really showed up for most of the games

The things that I see that have changed. Townes is playing like a man possessed on the boards. He's looking like Charles Thomas. The Hogs are attacking the basket much more and drawing more fouls. The overall "hustle" level has picked up over a much longer period of the game. The Hogs have gone from playing 15 minutes of good ball a game to playing 30-35 minutes of really good ball.

Ferguson and Thomas' ability to "get their shot" at key points in the game is also helping greatly. Vincent Hunter coming in and giving a huge lift of energy in the paint is also making a big difference.

This is a much better zone defense team than man team. That's okay. They've stepped up the defense over longer stretches of the game.

It is also interesting to me that we've flipped the halves. Now we have our low points in the first half and play much stronger in the second half.

They're still not perfect out there, but perfection is not required to win. 40 minutes of great effort and playing smart will usually get the job done.

Rather than a melt down I believe we've had a great turning point. Now we need to beat Miss. State soundly. A poor performance Wednesday night would be a bad thing.

The Student Becomes The Teacher

I wanted to see the baseball Razorbacks play a game in person before I wrote anything about them. Up until now, I've heard some practice reports from a few people and kept up with the newspaper stories. And I got a chance to attend my first Swatter's Club meeting earlier in the month.

But until I saw them live, as far as I was concerned, I knew as much about this team as anybody else who listened to their first six away games on the radio.

My initial impression? After watching Friday's doubleheader in person and catching Saturday's game on the tube, I couldn't help but be extremely excited about this team, currently ranked #17 by Baseball America.

And, of course, the first thing you have to talk about is their superstar. Folks, Nick Schmidt is now officially the best amateur pitcher I've ever seen in person. And I've watched many SEC teams over the past few years come into Baum Stadium and bring some great pitchers. Last year's Clemens Award winner Luke Hochevar of Tennessee and Jeremy Sowers of Vanderbilt from a few years ago immediately come to mind.

But what sets Schmidt apart right now from the rest can be described in one word: command. He throws the ball how and where he wants to throw it...just about every single time.

Schmidt has been so good that when he finally gave up his first hit of the season on Friday, after an amazing 13 2/3 hitless innings, most of us in the Baum Stadium crowd literally gave him a standing ovation. There were even a few players on the Louisiana Tech team that mockingly clapped. Their sarcasm would soon be silenced.

As the third inning began, Schmidt was rolling along. As is sometimes typical of a crowd watching a good pitching performance, the Baum faithful were fairly quiet.

Schmidt had struck out the first batter...already his fourth "K" of the game. Tech's manager and third base coach Wayne Simoneaux, in the middle of the next at bat, called over first baseman Joey McCarthy to discuss their...uh..."hitting strategy."

Now granted...you see this type of meeting sometimes in college baseball during certain situations. But with nobody on base, everybody in the ball park knew what was going on. Diminutive home plate umpire Wes Hamilton allowed the meeting to go on for at least two minutes. And the crowd was furious with him.

But Schmidt stood silently on the mound waiting for McCarthy to return to the batter's box. And I noticed that the Arkansas coaches didn't seem to get too excited either.

As play resumed, Schmidt used his gift of command to place the next pitch directly under the chin of Mr. McCarthy. The crowd erupted. McCarthy did his best John Kruk "happy to be alive" impression. Simoneaux barked at Hamilton for a warning. I thought about the line by the umpire from Field Of Dreams: "Sure, kid. Watch out you don't get killed."

Schmidt then proceeded to strike McCarthy out and, just to make sure his point was made, struck out the final batter of the inning...looking. The crowd went berserk. Simoneaux quickly scurried back into the dugout and was hardly heard from again for the rest of the weekend.

The skipper had learned a valuable lesson. Sometimes the best managing move is...to make no move at all. Nick Schmidt was the teacher on this day.

I'll post more impressions later. Until then, I'll leave you with a teaser. Remember this name...David Hum.

Arkansas 10, Louisiana Tech 2

Hogwired.com: Razorbacks Hammer Louisiana Tech, 10-2; Improve to 9-0

Shaun Seibert pitched five strong innings and the Arkansas offense exploded for 10 runs on 13 hits to sweep Louisiana Tech with a 10-2 win on Saturday afternoon at Baum Stadium in front of 4,043 fans.

Arkansas averaged 11 runs and 13 hits in the three-game series with the Bulldogs to improve to 9-0 on the season. Tech falls to 3-7 with the loss.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Box Score (PDF)
Mike Capshaw: Hogs Overpower Bulldogs
Jerry L. Reed: Rookie Razorbacks Make Impact Over The Weekend
Ryan Aber: Seibert Gets Job Done In First Start
Bob Holt: Cheers not limited to basketball team

Updated 2/26/06 10:30 a.m. - Added additional links.

Arkansas 73, Tennessee 69

Hogwired.com: Townes Leads Arkansas' Second-Half Comeback to Upset No. 10 Tennessee

Darian Townes scored 15 points and Jonathon Modica added 14 to help Arkansas rally to beat No. 10 Tennessee 73-69 on Saturday afternoon.

Arkansas (19-8, 8-6 Southeastern Conference) handed the Volunteers (20-5, 11-3) their first loss at home this season, and further bolstered its case for an NCAA tournament bid.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: Razorbacks beat Vols, strengthen case for NCAAs
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas 73, Tennessee 69 (subscription)
Grant Hall: Hogs Take Landmark Road Win Over Vols
Alex Abrams: Ferguson puts lockdown on UT's Lofton
Dudley Dawson: Senior Modica Comes Up Big For Hogs
Nate Allen: On a roll
Scott Cain: Stating their case, Fearless Ferguson does it on both ends for Arkansas and Hogs come up big on the inside
Democrat-Gazette: In the Lane
Wally Hall: Cool comeback makes NCAA berth less sweat
AP Photos: Dontell Jefferson, Steven Hill / Ronnie Brewer, Steven Hill, Sammy Munsey / Charles Thomas, Darian Townes, Bruce Pearl, Stan Heath, Bruce Pearl
The Tennessean: Loss hits home as Vols struggle

Updated 2/26/06 10:25 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. Tennessee

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Game Notes - Tennessee

Tennessee leads the all-time series 11-10 and has won five of the last six. The Volunteers lead 6-1 in Knoxville while Arkansas has a 5-2 lead in Fayetteville and a 4-3 advantage at neutral sites.

Arkansas won in Fayetteville last year, 70-68, but UT won in the first round of the SEC Tournament, 65-46.

Arkanasas' only win at Tennessee came in 1994, 65-64.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Game Notes (PDF), Stan Heath Press Conference - Tennessee
Grant Hall: Pearl, Vols Stand In Arkansas' Way
Nate Allen: Hogs have opportunity to burst through NCAA bubble at Tennessee, Hogs look to play inside the paint against Tennessee
Scott Cain: Lofton making SEC teams pay
Bob Holt: Pearl shining bright as Volunteers coach
The Tennessean: Owning last five minutes a big difference for UT

Photos From The Home Opener

I had a great time at Baum Stadium today watching the Hogs sweep the home opening double header over Louisiana Tech.

I'll recap my thoughts about this team later this weekend. For now, I've uploaded a photoset of today's games to my Flickr site.

  

Arkansas 10, Louisiana Tech 9 (Game 1); Arkansas 13, Louisiana Tech 2 (Game 2)

Hogwired.com: Schmidt Strikes Outs 10 as Hogs Sweep Double Header from Louisiana Tech

Nick Schmidt allowed his first three hits of the season but turned in his most dominating performance of the season with 10 strikeouts in seven innings in a 13-2 win on Friday evening to sweep a double header from Louisiana Tech.
...
Jake Dugger continued to drive the No. 17 Arkansas offense with a 3-for-4 performance and his third home run of the season in a 10-9 win over Louisiana Tech in the first game of an opening day double header on Friday afternoon at Baum Stadium.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Box Score - Game 1 (PDF), Box Score - Game 2 (PDF)
TipsterHog's Photos: Arkansas vs. Louisiana Tech 2/24/2006
Mike Capshaw: Hogs Blow Away Bulldogs
Jerry L. Reed: Arkansas Ace Almost Untouchable Again In Home Opener
Ryan Aber: Boyce Struggles, But Feeling Better
Heath Allen: Dugger, Schmidt shine in Hogs’ doubleheader sweep
Rick Fires: UA offense swings away, earns sweep

Updated 2/25/06 10:40 a.m. - Added additional links.

Need One More On The Road

So I was out of town and had to watch the Alabama game on a way too small TV in a way too expensive hotel that wanted way too much money for Internet access. While just going to sleep seemed like the best idea at times during the first half, I saw a couple of things that made me think I should stay awake.

The Hogs were attacking the basket. Alabama's 7 players were in danger of having to worry about staying in the game instead of playing it in the second half.

While much of our first half defense was pretty suspect, we were showing a lot of effort and energy on offense and in rebounding. You could just sense that things could easily turn our way if we picked up the defense and Alabama cooled off.

I think these guys have had a big "gut check." Getting negatively compared to the football team had to hurt (that "letting go of the rope" talk). That had to hurt. Plus I'm certain they were insulted when I said they'd lose out. (Yeah, right.) They seem to be taking a lot more pride in their performance.

Attacking the basket, drawing fouls, getting to the free throw line, good effort rebounding, and defensive intensity have been the recipe for this team all along. Those things can make up for a lot of other mistakes during the game.

Ronnie Brewer is finally stepping up. Townes has really stepped it up (15 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 blocks). Charles Thomas made some great plays down the stretch, taking ownership of a couple of possessions when everyone else was standing around. More McCurdy (5 assists in 12 minutes) and Hunter (3 rebounds and 2 blocked shots in 9 minutes) has helped the cause. Arkansas had 18 total assists versus 4 for Alabama. Remember that for the game against Ole Miss the Hogs had only 5 assists.

I really think this is a case of "too little, too late," but a win Saturday against Tennessee and a strong showing in the conference tournament could be enough to vault the Hogs into the big dance.

They've made this season much more difficult than it should have been.

Pre-Series Reports - Arkansas vs. Louisiana Tech

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Opens Home Slate With Louisiana Tech

Arkansas is 6-0 headed into the 2006 home opener at Baum Stadium on Friday afternoon against Louisiana Tech. The Razorbacks and Bulldogs will play a double header beginning at 1:05 p.m. on Friday with the second game starting 45 minutes after the conclusion of game one.

Cox Sports will televise the series finale on Saturday at 1:05 p.m.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Louisiana Tech Series (PDF)
Mike Capshaw: Hogs Make Home Debut, Gentry, Marquardt To Miss Series
Nate Allen: Hollensworth's hot bat leads Hogs’ offense against La. Tech
Rick Fires: A year older, Collis contributing for Arkansas staff

Updated 2/24/06 8:00 a.m. - Added additional links.

Arkansas 65, Alabama 63

Hogwired.com: Brewer's Three-Point Play Caps Razorback Comeback Win over Alabama

Ronnie Brewer hit a driving layup and a free throw with 20 seconds left Tuesday as the Razorbacks fought back from an 18-point second-half deficit and beat Alabama 65-63 in a Southeastern Conference game.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Post-Game Quotes, Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: Arkansas 65, Alabama 63
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas 65, Alabama 63, Box it Up (subscription)
Grant Hall: Four Minute Of Hell
Jerry L. Reed: Townes, Thomas Help Hogs Turn Things Around
Alex Abrams: Steele Draws Iron On Last Shot
Ryan Aber: Point Productive For Razorbacks Offense
Nate Allen: Brewer's basket, free throw lift Hogs over Tide
Scott Cain: The tide is turning
Bob Holt: Hogs know Tide as tough as Steele, In the Lane
Rob Keys: Brewer's determination pays off down the stretch
Wally Hall: Hogs, fans getting hang of this winning thing
AP Photos: Jonathon Modica, Jermareo Davidson, Eric Ferguson, Stan Heath, Sean McCurdy, Ronnie Brewer
The Birmingham News: Tide lets 18-point lead slip away
Mobile Register: Hog-wild ending beats Bama
The Huntsville Times: UA can't hold lead vs. Hogs

Updated 2/22/06 7:40 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. Alabama

Hogwired.com: Game Day Central

Arkansas leads the all-time series 21-20, but Alabama has won the last five. The Crimson Tide has a 13-4 series lead in Tuscaloosa while Arkansas leads 9-5 in Fayetteville and 8-2 at neutral sites. Three of the last four games have been decided by four points or less with two going to overtime, including this year’s first meeting, Alabama’s 78-75 overtime victory.

Arkansas’ last win was an 81-70 home victory in 2003.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Game Notes - Alabama, Game Notes (PDF), Stan Heath Press Conference - Alabama
Grant Hall: Happy Hogs Welcome Alabama, Alabama Next On Hogs' Hit Parade
Nate Allen: Tide focused on UA backcourt for tonight's game
Terry Wood: Alabama contest could redefine 'atypical performance' for Hogs
Scott Cain: Tide's man of steel is point guard Steele, Tide focusing on Hogs guards
Wally Hall: Hogs only ones who can ensure NCAA trip
The Birmingham News: Tide has plenty of praise for 'talented' Razorbacks
Mobile Register: Razorbacks 'licking chops' for Tide tonight
The Huntsville Times: Tide looking for fun

Screw You...We'll Pay The Fine

So let's do the math here...

An estimated 20 to 25 fans RUSHED the court on Saturday. The designated fine from the all-omnipotent SEC Commissioner's office was $5,000. That's $200 per RUSHING fan. Ouch...not the greatest ratio there.

Let's try this again...

So it was the first time the Razorbacks had beaten a top 10 basketball team since February 20, 2002. That's 1,459 days at $3.43 per day. Hmmmm...yeah...I can live with that.

Screw you, Mike Slive...here's your money.

Arkansas 13, Texas-Pan American 2

Hogwired.com: Rhoads Pitching Carries Hogs to 13-2 Win

Chris Rhoads continues to stake his claim to the third spot in the Arkansas’ rotation after seven-strong innings of work on Sunday in the Razorbacks’ 13-2 win over Texas-Pan American at the Al Ogletree Classic.

Arkansas improves to 6-0 on the season with the three-game sweep of the Al Ogletree Classic. The host Broncs fall to 4-7.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Box Score (PDF)
Chris Cocoles: Hustling Hogs cut corner to pull away from Broncs

Updated 2/20/06 9:30 a.m. - Added additional links.

Someone Hit The Switch Again?

Just when I write the Razorback basketball team off they decide to show back up.

I chose to brave the snow and ice and go to the game. I wanted to see Florida, and with this Hog team you just never know, so I thought it would be fun. It was. This team has it in them. As of late they've been more than a bit lazy about letting it out. The crowd was great - snow crowds always are it seems. The recent new feature of the "cable guy" dancing in the student section was very entertaining. I actually sold all of my tickets outside and used one a guy just gave me out of the blue. As usual this year, I went in and sat down about 15 rows up at mid-court.

They didn't play perfectly. There were mental and dumb mistakes -- although not as many as we've seen in other games. Free throw shooting almost did us in when we could've iced the game in regulation.

We blocked out and played strong defense. The center and the power forward position contributed 27 points, 17 rebounds and 4 assists. Remember they basically didn't even make the trip to Ole Miss. Hunter and Thomas played big. Townes had on his rebounding and defensive hard hat. Hill, as always, gave an outstanding effort. 6 blocked shots for the team.

I have to repeat, we blocked out really well, even on free throws. We took the paint today against a good Florida front line. We were plus 5 in turnovers and took 6 more shots than Florida in the second half. Even though we shot only 62% from the foul line, we took 22 more free throws than Florida. We took the ball strong at them and got them in the bonus early in each half. Our field goal percentage wasn't so great, but Nolan taught us that there is more to winning than just a good field goal percentage.

Modica and Brewer did what they are supposed to do as the offensive leaders. Modica, strangely enough, saved the game on defense with his steal near the end of regulation. That was almost a miracle play, as Florida was about to ice the game. Good for him, as it was his failure to block out on the off-side rebound that allowed Florida a put back late in regulation that could have been the game. Modica has a lot of heart.

Brewer finally stepped up and played the second half like the best player in the conference should. This is really the first time I've seen an impressive intensity level and a strong, "putting the game on his shoulders," mentality from him for any duration of time. And not just him, The whole team refused to lose. They were fighting hard. It was good to see Florida say in the press that "they wanted it more than us."

I thought McCurdy added good energy. It was good to see him get 13 minutes. Wouldn't have bothered me to see him get a few more. Ferguson did have 6 turnovers, you know. No one else would have bothered to throw that pass to Hill for the dunk. Hunter's 14 minutes were strong. Jefferson's 4 minutes were probably 4 minutes too many. He wasn't missed.

The big question I continue to debate within myself is this: Does the team just not listen and play the way Stan wants them to play or is the coaching / motivation at fault? I honestly don't know.

I do know that when they choose to show up and play basketball "right" instead of "stupid" they are an NCAA Tournament-quality team. Why they seldom have done that this year I just don't know.

It is a lot of fun when they do.

This bunch could win out or lose out. We have yet to prove this year we can put together back to back performances. Tuesday night against Alabama would be a good time to do that.

Arkansas 15, Stephen F. Austin 7

Hogwired.com: Diamond Hogs Improve to 5-0 with a 15-7 Win Over Stephen F. Austin

Arkansas posted a season highs in runs and hits in a 15-7 win over Stephen F. Austin on Saturday afternoon at the Al Ogletree Classic at the Edinburg Baseball Stadium.

The win improved the 17th-ranked Razorbacks’ record 5-0 on the season headed into the tournament finale on Sunday against host Texas-Pan American at 2 p.m.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Box Score (PDF)
Chris Cocoles: Arkansas has share of miscues, UA reliever will do whatever is needed

Updated 2/19/06 10:00 a.m. - Added additional links.

Arkansas 85, Florida 81

Hogwired.com: Brewer and Modica Lead Hogs to an 85-81 Overtime Upset of No. 10 Florida

Ronnie Brewer made a 3-pointer with 54 seconds to play in overtime and batted away a pass as Florida tried to tie it in the closing seconds, helping Arkansas to an 85-81 victory over the 10th-ranked Gators on Saturday.

Brewer scored 24 points and Jonathon Modica scored 22 for Arkansas (17-8, 6-6 Southeastern Conference).

Also:

Hogwired.com: Post-Game Quotes, Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: Razorbacks get upset win over No. 7 Gators in OT
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas 85, Florida 81, Defense steals show for Hogs (subscription)
Grant Hall: Brewer Takes Place Alongside His Dad
Ryan Aber: Sparse Crowd Helps UA Pull Off Upset
Jerry L. Reed: Bubble Doesn't Burst For Razorbacks Against Gators
Alex Abrams: A day of ups and downs for UF's Green
Nate Allen: Finally
Heath Allen: Modica's muscle helps push Razorbacks past Florida
Rainer Sabin: Razorbacks wanted game more, says Florida's Noah
Scott Cain: Unrestrained Razorbacks
Bob Holt: Modica goes on defensive for Hogs, In the Lane
Rob Keys: Hogs rediscover passion against Gators, Just like father, Brewer delivers
Wally Hall: Victory reinvigorates group of Razorbacks faithful
AP Photos: Steven Hill, Vincent Hunter, Jonathon Modica / Sean McCurdy, Ronnie Brewer, Ronnie Brewer, Charles Thomas, Billy Donovan, Stan Heath
The Gainsville Sun: Gators' hopes for SEC title fade with loss, Student section mobs court
The Tampa Tribune: Hogs Top Gators In OT

Updated 2/19/06 9:55 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. Florida

Hogwired.com: Game Day Central

Arkansas leads the all-time series 8-7, but Florida has won the last three meetings. Arkansas has a 5-2 series edge in Fayetteville and a 1-0 lead at neutral sites while Florida leads 5-2 in Gainesville. Arkansas' last win came at home in 2002, 94-92 in overtime.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Game Notes - Florida, Game Notes (PDF), Stan Heath Press Conference - Florida
JP Sports: Live Game Video
Grant Hall: Hogs Desperate For Win Against Florida
Democrat-Gazette: Razorback Tipoff
Scott Cain: Gators can just shoot it from close range, beyond, Hogs will sport throwback style
The Gainsville Sun: UF to find worthy foe in Hogs' swingman
The Tampa Tribune: Gators Are Hoping To Dress For Success

Arkansas 5, TCU 2

Hogwired.com: Schmidt Throws Six Hitless; Hogs Knock Off No. 18 TCU, 5-2

Arkansas' sophomore left-hander Nick Schmidt decided to wait another week before allowing his first hit of the 2006 season.

The Razorbacks' ace pitched six innings and did not allow a hit in his second straight outing. Schmidt (2-0) has not allowed a hit in 12 innings of work this season. He stuck out seven and walked one on 91 pitches.

Schmidt's outing helped the 17th-ranked Razorbacks improved to 4-0 on the season with a 5-2 win over No. 18 TCU at the Al Ogletree Classic at the Edinburg Baseball Stadium in Edinburg, Texas, on Friday.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Box Score (PDF)
Chris Cocoles: Schmidt silences TCU bats, Hrozek, Walker get UA offense started

Updated 2/18/06 9:45 a.m. - Added additional links.

The View Is Clear From Here

“We’re a little wounded, but we’re still alive,” Heath said Thursday.

Stan, DO YOU GET THE PICTURE?

"Ya know what I'm sayin'...........?????"

The media view seems to be Stan is "safe." Record will have improved year over year. For awhile there it actually seemed the team might have improved. Recruiting appears to look good. Don't want to throw cold water on that.

My view is simple. He needs to "take the high road" and choose to move on. He has issues as a coach that he needs to work through as an assistant somewhere. The Kent State thing was like Mike Davis going to the Final Four with Bobby Knight's team. Can't credit those things to one year of coaching.

No sense buying season tickets when they are on sale for $10 tops outside every game.

Just sayin'...

Pre-Tournament Reports - Al Ogletree Classic

Hogwired.com: Diamond Hogs Travel to Texas for Al Ogletree Classic

No. 17 Arkansas puts their 3-0 record on the line this weekend in the Al Ogletree Classic at the Edinburg Baseball Stadium in Edinburg, Texas. The Razorbacks open the tournament with 18th-ranked TCU at 1 p.m. on Friday. The Hogs then face Stephen F. Austin at 1 p.m. on Saturday and close the weekend with host Texas-Pan American at 2 p.m. on Sunday.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Al Ogletree Classic (PDF)
Mike Capshaw: Diamond Hogs Look To Improve
Chris Cocoles: TCU not pushover anymore

Turn Out The Lights

In a "must win" game the Razorbacks' best player, team leader and projected lottery pick, Ronnie Brewer, had just one rebound, no assist, and recorded four turnovers while statistically making only two of nine shots. 11-12 from the free throw line, which does indicate he tried to get to the basket, so some credit is due. Some. Not much.

This team has no leadership on the floor or on the bench. How can it be that every time we lose the other team seems to have "wanted it more?" Soft, no mental toughness. All those things that were concerns early and have needed to be mentioned way too much this year. Defense, expected to be a strength, has turned out to be a liability for most of the minutes in almost every conference game.

The Razorbacks' two tallest players, Townes and Hill, combined for three rebounds. Towns had six points, Hill zero. The center position was basically unoccupied.

Arkansas lost the rebounding battle 43-37. Ole Miss had 20 second chance points while recording 22 (!!!!) offensive rebounds. The Hogs had six offensive rebounds.

The Razorbacks were -12 in points in the paint.

Ole Miss had 15 assists to only 5 for Arkansas. Jefferson, Modica and Ferguson each had assists. No one else on the team had an assist.

The Razorback defense gave up 40 points in the second half and allowed Ole Miss to shoot over 46% for the game.

Old Miss had lost seven straight coming into last night's game. They were absolutely the worst team in the conference. Until last night. Don't forget, the SEC is down this year.

If we are really fortunate we might beat Mississippi State at home on March 1st to keep us from losing out. The only thing that keeps this from being a meltdown is the fact that we were never really up.

I suggest getting rid of the headbands, Hill and McCurdy getting haircuts, and making Brewer wear normal socks. Let's at least make teams have to work and replace some pages in the comic book they use to prepare for games with us.

Ole Miss 73, Arkansas 70

Hogwired.com: Ole Miss Snaps Streak in 73-70 Win over Arkansas

Londrick Nolen scored 20 points and Mississippi snapped a seven-game losing streak by beating Arkansas 73-70 on Wednesday night.

Bam Doyne gave Ole Miss a three-point lead when he made a free throw with 9 seconds left. The Razorbacks had one last chance to force overtime, but Jonathon Modica missed a 3-pointer with 3 seconds remaining.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: Mississippi 73, Arkansas 70
HawgsIllustrated.com: Ole Miss 73, Arkansas 70 (subscription)
Grant Hall: Hogs Lose 'Must Win' To Ole Miss
Alex Abrams: Physical Play Disrupts Razorbacks
Ryan Aber: Brewer Struggles From The Field, Not From The Line
Scott Cain: Mississippi meltdown, In the Lane
Doug Crise: Aggressive play bails out Rebels, Rebels senior gets message from Barnes
Wally Hall: Bottom line: Rebels wanted it more than Hogs
AP Photos: Jonathon Modica, Jonathon Modica, Rod Barnes
The Clarion-Ledger: Rebs end skid

Updated 2/16/06 8:35 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. Ole Miss

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Game Notes - Ole Miss

Arkansas leads the all-time series 38-19 and won this year’s first meeting, 71-58, in Fayetteville on Jan. 25. Ole Miss leads the series 11-5 in Oxford while Arkansas leads 10-6 in Fayetteville and 23-2 at neutral sites.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Game Notes (PDF), Stan Heath Press Conference - Ole Miss
Grant Hall: Hogs' Main Men Ready For Ole Miss, Rebels Present Different Look This Time
Nate Allen: Barnes leery of UA wingmen as Razorbacks visit Ole Miss, UA facing another must-win on the road at Ole Miss
Scott Cain: Close bringing sympathy, not victories
Wally Hall: Hogs need to play their best the rest of the way
The Clarion-Ledger: Improved Hampton could help Rebels

More Honors For Schmidt

After being named the SEC Pitcher of the Week yesterday, Razorback hurler Nick Schmidt was honored again today as the Pro-Line Cap National Pitcher of the Week.

This recognition also puts Schmidt on the watch list for the Roger Clemens Award, given annually to the national collegiate pitcher of the year.

A Faustian Deal?

For whatever reason, since his hiring last December, I've seen several sportswriters who have wanted to compare Gus Malzahn to former Notre Dame head coach Gerry Faust.

This time it's Richard Cirminiello over at CollegeFootballNews.com, who has Malzahn ranked #6 on "The New Coordinators: The 20 assistants you'll need to know for 2006" list.

I mean...I realize that Gus making the "jump to the college ranks" is an intriguing part of the story. But is he really the first to transition from high school head coach to major college program coordinator since Faust in 1981?

(Also...former Razorback quarterbacks coach Roy Wittke made #18 on the list.)

Schmidt Named SEC Pitcher of the Week

Hogwired.com: Schmidt Named SEC Pitcher of the Week

Nick Schmidt’s performance in a combined no-hit effort over Oklahoma State on Saturday afternoon at the Jaguar Invitational in Mobile, Ala., earned him SEC Pitcher of the Week honors the conference office announced on Monday.

Arkansas 8, South Alabama 7

Hogwired.com: Dugger Hammers Two Home Runs; Hogs Hold On For 8-7 Win

Jake Dugger connected for two home runs and four RBI as 20th-ranked Arkansas fought off a furious ninth-inning rally from South Alabama on Sunday to hold on for an 8-7 win at Stanky Field in the final game of the Jaguar Invitational.

The Jaguar’s scored three ninth-inning runs to pull within one, before Hogs’ closer Devin Collis got Billy Kleinschrodt to ground out to third base to end the game. The Razorbacks are 3-0 after their first weekend of play; South Alabama falls to 3-2.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Box Score (PDF)
Mike Capshaw: Dugger Leads Arkansas Sweep, Boyce Bounces Back After Surgery
Rick Fires: Dugger powers UA to 3-0 start

Updated 2/13/06 8:40 a.m. - Added additional links.

The Vultures Await Their Turn

I love that part of the book The Inner Game of Tennis where it tells you how to never lose another match.

Never, ever play anyone anywhere near as good as you are.

The Razorbacks had that luxury against Auburn for the second time this season. While the shooting percentage for the Hogs was impressive, very little else about their game followed suit. Auburn recorded 18 offensive rebounds. If we had been playing anyone half-decent, we'd been beat again.

This one is not worth analysis. I did like the quote in the press from Ronnie Brewer saying that, "we're close." He just needed to add the phrase, "to elimination" to complete the sentence.

Maybe these guys will make a run. But probably not. Weekend consensus among youth center basketball coaches was that Heath's time is up. Some of them are expecting calls from Frank at any moment.

Arkansas 84, Auburn 64

Hogwired.com: Hogs Pull Away for 20-Point Win Over Auburn

Ronnie Brewer scored 19 points Saturday night as Arkansas topped Auburn 84-64.

Arkansas (16-7, 5-5 Southeastern Conference), which was coming off a heartbreaking 78-77 loss to LSU on Wednesday, was flat at times but also showed good ball movement in stretches and aggressiveness under the boards.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Post-Game Quotes, Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: Arkansas 84, Auburn 64
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas 84, Auburn 64 (subscription)
Grant Hall: Hogs Heat Up, Bury Auburn
Jerry L. Reed: Arkansas Adjusts Attitude In Second Half
Alex Abrams: Auburn's Lebo is a no-show
Scott Cain: Not too rough for Razorbacks
Bob Holt: Assistant takes over for ailing Lebo, In the Lane
Rob Keys: Brewer picks up his game in second half
AP Photos: Darian Townes
The Birmingham News: Cooper takes over on bench for ill Lebo
Mobile Register: Lebo-less Auburn falls to 0-8 on the road
The Huntsville Times: Tigers stumble with Lebo too sick to coach

Updated 2/12/06 9:50 a.m. - Added additional links.

Arkansas 3, Oklahoma State 0

Hogwired.com: Three Arkansas Pitchers Combine to No-hit Oklahoma State

Three Arkansas pitchers combined to no-hit Oklahoma State in a 3-0 win on Saturday evening at Stanky Field at the Jaguar Invitational.

Nick Schmidt, Brian McLelland and Devin Collis registered the first no-hitter for the Hogs since Scott Roehl no-hit Kansas State on March 20, 2001, in Shreveport, La. It was the 12th no-hitter in school history. The Arkansas’ trio allowed just one Oklahoma State base runner to reach second base the entire game.

It was the first time in the 71-recorded years of Oklahoma State baseball that the Cowboys have been no-hit.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Box Score (PDF)
Mike Capshaw: Pitchers Combine for No-Hitter
Rick Fires: UA pitchers fire no-hitter at OSU

Updated 2/12/06 9:45 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. Auburn

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Game Notes - Auburn

Arkansas leads the all-time series 19-12 and won this season’s first meeting at Auburn on Jan. 21, 68-52.

Arkansas leads the series 12-2 in Fayetteville while the Tigers have a 9-6 series advantage at Auburn. The series is 1-1 at neutral sites.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Game Notes (PDF), Stan Heath Press Conference - Auburn
Grant Hall: Hogs Try To Bounce Back...Again
Democrat-Gazette: Razorback Tipoff
Nate Allen: Hoop Hogs host young Tigers tonight
Scott Cain: Arkansas still searching for a finishing formula, Auburn's Lebo hopes head stays attached at Arkansas
The Birmingham News: AU hopes Arkansas duel erases slump
Mobile Register: Auburn enters rough road stretch
The Huntsville Times: Auburn still feeling the heat

Former Razorback Spearmon Sets World Record

Hogwired.com: Former Razorback Wallace Spearmon Jr. Sets New World Record

Former Arkansas sprinter Wallace Spearmon Jr. set a new world record in the 300-meter dash on Friday night during the Tyson Invitational at the Randal Tyson Track Center.
...
For his efforts, Spearmon won a $25,000 bonus offered by Tyson Foods, Inc. to an athlete who captured a world record during this weekend’s event. Spearmon will try and pick up his second check of the weekend on Saturday as part of an all-star 4x400 relay team.

Also:

Dustin Dearman: Spearmon Shatters 300 World Record
Nate Allen: Spearmon sets world record in 300
Marty Cook: Ex-Hog Spearmon sets 300-meter world record

Arkansas 4, George Mason 1

Hogwired.com: Home Runs by Hamblin, Parker Carry Hogs to Opening Day Win

Blake Parker and Danny Hamblin both connected for solo home runs as Arkansas opened the season with a 4-1 win over George Mason at the Jaguar Invitational in Mobile, Ala., on Friday.

The Razorbacks received outstanding pitching from junior college transfer Chris Rhoads and played superb defense behind him. Rhoads won his first appearance in a Hogs’ uniform by allowing just one run on four hits in six innings of work.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Box Score (PDF)
Mike Capshaw: Rhoads Paves Way In Opener, Arkansas Offers Power Surge
Rick Fires: New Hogs pitcher off to a good start

Updated 2/11/06 9:55 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Tournament Reports - Jaguar Invitational

Hogwired.com: Hogs Open Season at Jaguar Invitational in Mobile

Arkansas begins the 2006 baseball season at the Jaguar Invitational in Mobile, Ala. The four-team field features the Hogs, host South Alabama, Oklahoma State and George Mason in round-robin format.

The season’s first pitch is slated for 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 10, against George Mason at the newly renovated Stanky Field. The Hogs will then face Oklahoma State on Saturday, Feb. 11 at 4:30 p.m. and finish the first weekend of play against South Alabama at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 12.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Jaguar Invitational (PDF), UA Announces Razorback Baseball Radio Network Affiliates
Mike Capshaw: Play Ball!
Heath Allen: Diamond Hogs look to find chemistry in batting order
Rick Fires: Dugger digging to find 2004 form, Razorbacks to rely on added seasoning

Wild Card Verdict

Seth Davis of SportsIllustrated.com still thinks the Hogs are a NCAA bubble team.

This just in...Seth Davis of SportsIllustrated.com has been declared not guilty by reason of insanity.

Round Up The Usual Suspects

Just a few stats tell much of the story of the game against LSU.

Points in the paint: Arkansas 28, LSU 46.
Second chance points: Arkansas 12, LSU 18.
LSU shot 53% from the field, making 6 more field goals while taking only 1 more shot than Arkansas.

Our defense for at least 37 minutes of the game was terrible. DVRs are nice for a lot of reasons, but I especially enjoy them for watching plays over and over. The 1-3-1 defense was abused by LSU. Shifts poor, spacing poor - it was a clinic on how not to run that defense. The 3-2 match-up was totally ineffective. Man not much better. Transition defense and press defense poorly executed. LSU sliced us apart time and time again in very fundamental ways.

Offense? Very seldom do we actually have one. Without Modica's movement in the motion offense we would be nothing. I guess that's why we have to put up with his defense. But he is far from the only one with defensive issues. Both Modica and Brewer's transition defense left much to be desired.

Jefferson, Ferguson and Brewer combined for 5 assists. LSU had 18 assists to Arkansas' 12.

Brewer led with 4 turnovers. There were at least 3 other plays where he was involved in the turnover in some fashion. I think it would be interesting to sit him for about 10 minutes of a game just to see what would happen.

I keep asking myself if these guys get coached? Do they watch film? Do they understand what they are supposed to be doing on defense? It sure doesn't look like it most of the time.

LSU relaxed and we got back in the game. Had a chance to win. Actually, had lots of chances to win all during the game that we failed to execute on. This team consistently makes 10-20 points worth of mistakes during a game.

I like McCurdy, but having him on the floor at the end of the game was foolish. The possibility of pressure free throws after sitting a bench forever shouldn't be inflicted on anyone. LSU was smart - foul the cold guy off the bench. Stan laid out the table for the smart basketball players LSU has to easily find the best guy to foul.

I don't know if we just don't know what we are doing or if we are just not disciplined enough to execute. I do know that a fairly talented bunch of players are falling way short of their potential. While there are some effort issues along the way, the bigger issues are mental. There is no excuse for playing those defenses that poorly.

I think at this point it is apparent that Stan Heath is in way over his head. No one is going to suggest this is a well-coached team.

LSU 78, Arkansas 77

Hogwired.com: Razorback Comeback Stymied by Mitchell's Three-Pointer in 78-77 Loss to LSU

Darrel Mitchell made a 3-pointer with 11.2 seconds remaining to give LSU a 78-77 Southeastern Conference victory against Arkansas on Wednesday.

The game-winning shot from the top of the key by Mitchell followed a furious comeback by the Razorbacks. Ronnie Brewer made two free throws with 51 seconds remaining to cap a 14-0 run that put Arkansas ahead 77-75.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: LSU 78, Arkansas 77
Grant Hall: Hogs Battle Back But Fall 78-77 To LSU
Alex Abrams: Brewer Last Shot Comes Up Short
Ryan Aber: McCurdy In 'Tough Position'
Nate Allen: Last-second crash
Scott Cain: Cruelest cut yet, In the Lane
Wally Hall: Hogs' half-court woes reach breaking point
AP Photos: Darrel Mitchell, Darrel Mitchell
Times-Picayune: Mitchell salvages win for LSU
The Shreveport Times: LSU escapes with win against Hogs

Updated 2/9/06 8:30 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. LSU

Hogwired.com: Arkansas Game Notes - LSU

Arkansas leads the series 25-16, but LSU has won six of the last seven meetings. The teams split last year’s games with each winning at home.

Arkansas has an 11-4 advantage in Fayetteville while LSU leads 9-7 in Baton Rouge. The series is 5-5 at neutral sites.

The last four games have been decided by five points or less, including this year’s first meeting, LSU’s 63-58 win in Fayetteville on Jan. 11.

Also:

JP Sports: Live Game Video
Hogwired.com: Game Notes (PDF), Stan Heath Press Conference - LSU
Grant Hall: Hogs Need An 'Edge' Against LSU
Nate Allen: Hogs hope to contain strong LSU starters, LSU looms large on UA's horizon
Wally Hall: Every game crucial for Hogs' NCAA hopes
Times-Picayune: Tigers have one goal -- rebound

Understanding The Quarterback Position?

In this week’s issue of The Sporting News, Troy Aikman made these comments:

You don’t win in spite of quarterback play, you win because of it. Yet you still hear coaches say, “We’ll play great defense and run the ball. We’ll be fine as long as our quarterback doesn’t lose it for us.”

Nonsense. Anyone who says that doesn’t understand what the quarterback position is all about.

I think Troy was quoting Houston Dale Nutt.

Troy’s article this week was about the role that Ben Roethlisberger played in the Pittsburg Steelers’ offense. While Pittsburg’s offense is known for being very run oriented (57% of their regular season plays), Roethlisberger was third in the league with a quarterback rating of 98.6. He was 21st in the league in passing yardage.

Roethlisberger’s passing effectiveness along with his ability to carry the offense when the run was not working was the key to the Pittsburg offensive success. The Pittsburg running game was far more effective playing with the lead while their passing offense was key in them getting leads to “sit on.”

So, Troy and the Steelers’ success this year is something Houston Dale needs to take note of.

Modica Named SEC Player Of The Week

Hogwired.com: Modica Named SEC Player of the Week

Jonathon Modica’s career-high scoring effort against South Carolina on Saturday earned the Smackover, Ark., native Southeastern Conference Player of the Week honors on Monday, the league announced.

Modica scored 37 points in Arkansas’ 73-59 victory over South Carolina. He was 11-of-17 from the field, including six-of-nine on three-pointers, and nine-of-10 at the free throw line.

Same Ole Thing In The Second Half

After a week of practices and rumored lineup changes, the only change the Hogs demonstrated against South Carolina was in the lineup.

Other than a lights-out performance by Modica and solid performance by Charles Thomas, the other Razorbacks did not show much. Okay...Brewer had 7 assists and 4 rebounds while contributing 10 points and 3 turnovers. Hill and Townes had 10 rebounds and managed not to foul anyone as the Hogs received a few favorable whistles...or favorable lack of whistles. Eric Ferguson, in his starting role, fulfilled the rep he has among message board posters with 5 turnovers.

The most important thing to note in this game is that the Hogs lost the second half by 4 points. With less than 3 minutes to go the lead was cut to 10 - meaning the Hogs were losing the second half by 9 points - although the game wasn't really in danger due to little time remaining on the clock. Point being...if the Hogs had been playing anyone very good we would have seen the usual collapse leading to a loss. 38 points in the second half by South Carolina equals a 76 point pace for a full 40 minutes. Not a good defensive performance in the second half.

It wouldn't surprise me if we lost 4 of the next 5.

Arkansas 73, South Carolina 59

Hogwired.com: Modica Nets Career-High 37 Points to Lead Hogs to a 73-59 Win over South Carolina

Jonathon Modica scored a career-high 37 points to lead Arkansas to an easy 73-59 win over South Carolina on Saturday.

Modica had 20 points in the first half as the Razorbacks rolled to a 39-21 lead at the break. He finished 11-of-17 from the field and 6-of-9 from 3-point range, surpassing his previous career high of 33 points set in 2004 against Mississippi State.

Also:

Hogwired.com: Post-Game Quotes, Final Stats (PDF)
ESPN.com: Arkansas 73, South Carolina 59
HawgsIllustrated.com: Arkansas 73, South Carolina 59 (subscription)
Grant Hall: Modica Scores 37; Hogs Down Gamecocks
Mike Capshaw: Heath More Vocal On Sideline
Jerry L. Reed: Modica Plays Big Role In Latest Razorbacks' Win
Alex Abrams: Gamecocks Suffere Without Injured Balkman
Nate Allen: Super senior
David Showers: Hogs keep South Carolina from finding comfort zone
Terry Wood: Hogs' jittery second-half play persists even in blowout
Scott Cain: A red-hot Razorback
Bob Holt: Thomas gets good start off bench
Chris Cocoles: Supporting role suits Brewer fine
Democrat-Gazette: In the Lane
Wally Hall: Hogs learning everyone needs to do his part
AP Photos: Jonathon Modica, Ronnie Brewer
The State: Modica regains his touch, Get off Odom's case

Updated 2/05/06 10:00 a.m. - Added additional links.

Pre-Game Reports - Arkansas vs. South Carolina

Hogwired.com: Game Day Central

Arkansas leads the series 10-6, but South Carolina has won the last two. UA leads 5-2 in Fayetteville and 4-3 in Columbia. The series is tied 1-1 at neutral sites.

Arkansas’ last win was the 82-66 decision at home in 2004.

Also:

JP Sports: Live Game Video
Hogwired.com: Arkansas Game Notes - South Carolina, Game Notes (PDF), Stan Heath Press Conference - South Carolina
Grant Hall: Hogs, Gamecocks Face 'Must' Game
Nate Allen: Hogs, Gamecocks looking for stronger finish today at Walton
Scott Cain: Hogs, Gamecocks not interested in pity party
The State: Gamecocks spend break cramming

Just a Few RPIs From Here

Nate Allen writes today about the Razorbacks starting line-up and potential changes.

Scott Cain writes about the Razorback’s current RPI rating. The Razorbacks are currently 59th – a position that does not bode well for the chances of the Hogs making the big dance.

Does anyone at this point in the season seriously think we have an NCAA Tournament quality team? Close you say? Yep, just close.

Who out there thinks Ronnie Brewer is overrated? He's really good, but I’ll repeat what I said before – he wouldn’t start ahead of Scotty Thurman. Those that think he is NBA ready need to be in one of those straitjackets that Nate was mentioning. I know that Nolan was a bit off his rocker towards the end, but I don’t see that Ronnie could have played Nolan’s style. I understand why Nolan wasn't interested in recruiting him.

Speaking of Nolan...he was in Memphis last week for the Memphis – UAB game. He was getting on the refs pretty loudly as I understand. The crowd started getting on Nolan pretty hard. He stood up, held up his NCAA Championship ring and waved it around to the crowd. Pretty funny.

Maybe he'll come wave it for us. That's the only way we might get close to any type of NCAA tournament ring anytime soon.

Close. There's that word again.

"A Year Of Transition"

For a long time now, I've always made sure to closely read the message board posts of the hog fan known as "Biggus Piggus." To say he has a history of "stirring the pot" would be an understatement. But his straightforward opinions are welcome to those of us who often feel a little too "spoon fed" by the local media.

These days Biggus hangs out as an admin over at Hogville.net and yesterday he posted his assessment of the program with the addition of this year's recruiting class. It's definitely a "state of the (hog) union" commentary that every rabid Razorback fan should read.

Finally Able To Exhale

Sure we all know most...if not all...of the story. And in many ways, today's National Signing Day is just the beginning and not the end.

But Dennis Dodd, senior writer for CBS SportsLine.com, provides a nice recap and brings his national perspective to this year's roller coaster recruiting season for Mitch Mustain and the Hogs.

Source: The Slop

No Sense Screaming Now

While Stan Heath is pondering ways to rearrange his lineup, the writers this week seem to have his court-side demeanor on their minds. Harry King provides his analysis today of the situation while reaching no conclusion. Wally Hall was writing about the same thing on Monday.

I'm not sure this is so hard. These guys seem to lose track of how to play the style of basketball this team needs to play to win. Wally is just wrong in saying Steven Hill's second foul wasn't a mental mistake. A seven foot tall guy fouling a guy 6-10 and 18 feet from the basket is just stupid. That foul made the difference in Hill playing more minutes and being more effective in the second half. Maybe that didn't make two points difference, but...

Losing four games by 12 points, while losing big leads in each game, comes down to mental mistakes. Also, I'll bring up a point I mentioned earlier -- I don't think these guys are in the shape they need to be in to play a whole game with the level of aggressiveness on defense they need. Hill and Townes looked tired to me. Kentucky pushed the tempo of the game to a point beyond a seven man rotation. Give them credit.

Win the paint. Hold the other team under 65 points. Control the tempo of the game. Simple to say...obviously beyond this team to do on a regular basis.

They had issues with this in December just like they are having now. Make a good run, get a good lead, then either let down or play rat ball stupid. It was rat ball stupid they displayed in the first five minutes of the second half at Kentucky. One run and an early double digit lead does not a whole game make. The time to be screaming was in December. I'm afraid now it is too late.

2006 Football Signing Class

Hogwired.com: 2006 Arkansas Football Signing Class List and Bios

Per NCAA rules, the University of Arkansas will release the future Razorbacks only after their paperwork is received by the football coaching staff. At 4 p.m., subscribers to RazorZone, the subscription area of Hogwired, will be able to watch a live video stream of Arkansas head coach Houston Nutt’s press conference.

Later in the afternoon, video highlights of the signing class will be available to RazorZone subscribers. In addition, a brief transcript of the press conference will be available to all Hogwired.com visitors.