Tagged: Jarius Wright

Arkansas Football: Former Razorbacks Prepare for Grueling NFL Combine


Every year around this time 300 plus former college football players eligible for the NFL Draft close in on a six to eight week workout process in preparation for the combine in Indianapolis.

During the 2012 NFL Scouting Combine held from Feb. 22-28, former Arkansas Razorback players Jake Bequette, Joe Adams, Greg Childs, and Jarius Wright will participate before the league’s 32 teams, their coaches, and key personnel in hopes of improving their draft status and in some cases getting drafted period.

An invite to the combine does not assure a player the opportunity of being drafted but the opportunity certainly enhances their chances.

At the 2011 NFL combine, four Razorbacks showcased their talents. Quarterback Ryan Mallett, tight end D.J. Williams, and offensive lineman DeMarcus Love were drafted in the third, fifth, and sixth round respectively.

Offensive lineman Ray Dominguez went undrafted after attending the combine but signed a free agent contract with the Green Bay Packers after the draft.

Each combine invitee can choose to participate in the series of mental and physical tests, physical drills, and in some cases interview with perspective teams.

The interview process allows each team to meet with up to 60 different players for a maximum of 15 minutes. Topics of conversation during the interviews range from football knowledge to character concerns centered on the individual player.

Made even more popular by the Madden NFL video game is the Wonderlic Test. The assessment shines the spotlight on those players that perform well and those that test poorly.

The Wonderlic Cognitive Ability Test is a 12 minute timed aptitude test with 50 questions. The word test is designed to gain a better idea of an individual’s ability to problem solve and their overall intelligence level.

The common score of most football players is 20 denoting average intelligence. A testing performance of 10 means the person is considered literate.

A score of 24 is the median national average. A high test score of 31 corresponds with chemist and related fields.

According to Paul Zimmerman’s The New Man’s Thinking Guide to Pro Football the average Wonderlic test scores are broken down per positions:

 

  • Offensive tackle- 26
  • Center- 25
  • Quarterback- 24
  • Offensive guard- 23
  • Tight end- 22
  • Safety- 19
  • Linebacker- 19
  • Cornerback- 18
  • Wide receiver- 17
  • Fullback- 17
  • Running back- 16

 

Over the last 10-15 years the medical tests players endure have been a subject of controversy.

Most NFL teams throw up a red flag on players with an injury history. Even if a player has been productive at the collegiate level and scored well on the physical performance tests during the combine, said players tend to slide down team’s draft boards once their doctors are able to perform orthopedic and MRI exams.

In the past medical information was traded freely between college team doctors and NFL teams. Now, due to medical privacy laws college teams can no longer hand over personal medical information on any given person.

What happens on the field during a game can be observed and documented most of the time. What happens on the practice field cannot. For this reason over 600 MRI are performed yearly at the combine. That is an average of two MRI per player each year.

The physical and speed drills tend to grab the headline attention at the combine. Fans drool over 40-yard dash times and player bench press reps while teams focus on 10-yard and 20-yard split times, vertical jumps, and three cone drills.

Heading into this week’s combine Joe Adams is listed as the seventh best wide receiver on Draftcountdown.com. Adams stock has risen over the past two months from a thought fifth round draft pick to a possible second rounder.

Adamsis listed at 5’11”, 190 pounds with 4.39 40-yard dash speed.

The second fastest wide receiver among the 66 compiled in the 40-yard dash is Jarius Wright. Wright is listed at 5’10”, 180 pounds with a 40-yard dash time of 4.33 just two one hundredths off Connecticut’s Kashif Moore’s 4.31.

Wright is ranked No. 25 out of the 66 receivers attending the combine.

Greg Childs is the bigger receiver of the Razorback bunch and the bigger prospect of the group until he hurt his knee during the 2010 season. After a slow start Childs picked up his pace in the LSU and Kansas State games at the end of Arkansas’ 2011 season.

Childs has a great opportunity to improve his draft stock at the combine. He is ranked No. 35 on the board. His 6’3”, 217 pound frame along with his production early in his Razorback career will attract attention.

If he can improve upon his 4.55 40-yard dash and show explosiveness in his breaks while running routes he could see his name called during the NFL Draft.

Childs will get to answer his fair share of questions about his knee during the scouting combine. Perspective teams will poke, prod, and examine his knee before the week is through to make sure he has fully healed from his injury before risking a draft pick on him.

After Jake Bequette’s first team All-SEC performance in 2011 it is hard to understand why he is not listed higher than the 14th best defensive end in the draft.

Bequette’s hamstring injury aside, he posted 10 sacks during the season tying him for the SEC lead withSouth Carolina’s defensive end Marvin Ingram. Both players were tied for the ninth best sack total during the 2011 season.

Ingram is ranked as the second best defensive end.

Bequette enters the combine as the fastest defensive end among the 42 invitees having run a reported 4.59 40-yard dash. His 6’5”, 271 pound frame makes him an ideal 4-3 defensive end in the NFL.

When the combine announced their list of invitees for 2012, a couple of Razorbacks were surprisingly missing- linebacker Jerry Franklin and safety Tramain Thomas.

Franklinled the Hogs in tackles in each of the past four seasons compiling 100 or more tackles during his senior and junior years.

Thomas was tied for 13th in Division I with five interceptions during his senior campaign. He also was second on the team and tied for 10th in the SEC with 91 tackles while playing through a shoulder injury much of the season.

Razorback players attending the combine and those that were not invited will have one last opportunity to showcase their abilities before the NFL Draft at Arkansas’ pro day on March 6.

Last year 18 former Razorbacks performed at Arkansas’ pro day including quarterback Ryan Mallett. This year senior offensive linemen Grant Cook and Grant Freeman, linebacker Jerrico Nelson, cornerback Isaac Madison, safety Elton Ford, running back Broderick Green, and defensive lineman Zach Stadther along with others will get their chance to perform combine drills for the NFL scouts on hand.

If the combine tells fans and future NFL hopefuls anything, it’s no matter where you attend college that if one works hard enough and plays well enough the scouts will find you.

One of the more shocking 2012 combine players scheduled to attend is Shawn Loiseau, a former linebacker at Merrimack. Loiseau’s invite is not shocking because of his ability to play but due to the size of Merrimack’s college.

Better known for their hockey teams, Merrimack is a small school inNorth Andover, MA with an undergraduate enrollment of 2,064 students. The Warriors compete in the Northeast 10 Conference, a Football Championship Subdivision conference formerly called Division II.

In-state Arkansas football fans will be happy to know that safety Kelcie McCray and linebacker DeMario Davis of Arkansas State are scheduled to attend the combine as well.

McCray is listed as the 14th best safety at the combine whileDavisis ranked as the 16th best linebacker.

Arkansas State will hold their pro day on March 27.

The 2012 NFL Draft is April 26-28.

Listing the Top 37 SEC Players Eligible for 2012 NFL Draft


During the 2011 NFL Draft 37 players from the SEC heard their name called by NFL teams, 10 in the first round alone. 51 total seniors from SEC schools have been invited to participate in the four different post season all-star games. Underclassmen are already preparing for this year’s NFL Combine by hiring strength and fitness instructors to help them display their athletic abilities.

 

How many SEC players will hear their names called during the 2012 NFL Draft?

 

Here’s a list of the top 37 players that can equal last year’s impressive transition from college football into the NFL.

 

*Denotes underclassman

 

Running Backs:

*Trent Richardson, 5’11”, 224 pounds, University of Alabama

Workhorse, power runner, game changer, break away back, the total package… However you want to describe Richardson as a dominate running back take your pick. He can also catch the ball out of the backfield. The only thing that will keep him off the field as a rookie in the NFL is if he does not show the ability to pick up the blitz on passing downs.

 

Richardson led the SEC in rushing yards (1,679), rushing attempts (283), and rushing touchdowns (21). He also led the SEC to their sixth straight BCS National Championship.

 

Draft Worthy Mentions:

RB Vick Ballard, Mississippi State

RB Tauren Poole, Tennessee

RB Chris Rainey, Florida

FBBroderick Green, Arkansas

 

 

Wide Receivers and Tight Ends:

*Alshon Jeffery, 6’4”, 229 pounds, University of South Carolina

Jeffery is a big target which NFL scouts like and he’s great at jumping over defenders, especially in the red zone. Jeffery lacks the blazing speed coveted by NFL teams and his route running is not crisp.

 

Even with the instability at quarterback for the Gamecocks, Jeffery was able to finish the season ranked No. 5 in the SEC in total receiving yards. His eight touchdown receptions were tied for third best in the SEC.

 

*Orson Charles, 6’3”, 242 pounds, University of Georgia

Charles may be the best tight end available in the NFL Draft much less the best tight end in the SEC. He has the speed, height, and athletic ability for the next level. His ability to stretch the field and pump against linebackers will help his draft status.

 

Charles was No. 12 in the SEC in total receiving yards with 574 while hauling in 45 passes and five receiving touchdowns.

 

Jarius Wright, 5’10”, 180 pounds, University of Arkansas

Wright is smaller wide receiver than what most scouts want in a No. 1 receiver. InArkansas’ offense he was accustomed to running routes across the middle of the field which is something he will have to do on the next level as a No. 2 option or as a slot receiver.

 

Wright finished the 2011 season leading the SEC in receiving yards (1,117) and receiving touchdowns (12). He was one catch shy of tying Da’Rick Rogers (Tennessee) for most receptions-Rogers67, Wright 66.

 

Joe Adams, 5’11”, 190 pounds, University of Arkansas

Adamswas a consensus All-American as a punter returner in 2011. He led all players with four kickoff returns for touchdowns and his yardage per punt return average of 16.89 was second in college football. Some team will take a chance on Adams for his return ability alone. His 4.3 40-yard dash helps too.

 

Do not overlook Adams’ ability as a receiver. He was No. 4 in the SEC in total receptions (54) and No. 8 in total receiving yards (652).

 

Draft Worthy Mentions:

Greg Childs, Arkansas

*Reuben Randle, LSU

 

Offensive Linemen:

Cordy Glenn, 6’5”, 348 pounds, University of Georgia

Glenn has the size of a NFL tackle but played guard for the Bulldogs since his sophomore year. Either way he’s a beast to contend with especially on running plays.

 

He has started since his freshman season and has played against top quality defensive linemen throughout his college career. Glenn should be a late first round draft pick.

 

Draft Worthy Mentions:

OT D.J. Fluker, Alabama

C Ben Jones, Georgia

OG Will Blackwell, LSU

C William Vlachos, Alabama

OT Bobby Massie, Ole Miss

 

Linebackers:

*Dont’a Hightower, 6’4”, 260 pounds, Alabama

Hightower is a hard nosed tackler with size and good speed. If he did not have a history of being injured (tore ACL in left knee in 2009) Hightower might be considered the top outside linebacker in the NFL Draft. As it is he still will go somewhere in the first round.

 

Courtney Upshaw, 6’2”, 265 pounds, Alabama

Upshaw is anotherAlabamaproduct that projects high in the NFL Draft. Upshaw is an excellent fit as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 NFL defensive scheme. He led Bama with 9.5 sacks this season and seven in 2010.

 

Upshaw was a four year player for the Tide. He has 4.6 speed to go with his massive frame.

 

Chris Marve, 6’0”, 242 pounds, University of Vanderbilt

Marve is a typical SEC middle linebacker, always in on a play and a sound tackler. He had an off senior year due to injuries. Still he finished with 91 tackles and 2.5 sacks.

 

Unless Marve shows tremendous speed at the combine he is likely going to drop into the third round.

 

Draft Worthy Mentions:

Jerry Franklin, Arkansas

Danny Trevathan, Kentucky

 

Defensive Linemen:

Melvin Ingram, 6’2”, 276 pounds, University of South Carolina

Ingram was the senior leader of a three-headed defensive end rotation that terrorized the SEC- Devin Taylor and Jadeveon Clowney. Ingram had nine sacks as a junior and 10 sacks as a senior.

 

He has a knack for making big plays. His speed is average for a defensive end his size (4.6 40-yard dash). If he can show off some superior atheism at the combine he could work his way into a solid second round pick.

 

*Michael Brockers, 6’6”, 306 pounds, LSU

A disruptive force for offensive lines to deal with, Brockers easily dominates most blockers in one-on-one situations. He gets up field in a hurry and commands double teams.

 

He converted from defensive end to defensive tackle while inBaton Rouge. He is short on overall experience but has a ton of upside. If he does well at the combine he should hear his name called in the first round.

 

Josh Chapman, 6’1”, 310 pounds, Alabama

Chapman anchored the line for a great Alabama defense throughout his colligate career. His size is a little undersized for a nose tackle.  His real weapon in the trenches is his speed. He clocked a 4.92 40-yard dash.

 

Chapman should go before the second round his over. Early third round if he has a bad NFL Combine or pro day.

 

*Fletcher Cox, 6’4”, 295 pounds, Mississippi State

There is nothing bad to say about the abilities of Fletcher Cox. He has a motor that does not stop, he is quick off the ball, and played through double-teams throughout his college career. He posted 5 sacks in 2011 and 2.5 in 2010.

 

NFL teams will want to beef Cox up once he is drafted. Look for Cox to go somewhere in the second to third round.

 

Jake Bequette, 6’5”, 271 pounds, University of Arkansas

Bequette is an experienced college player having redshirted before becoming a four-year starter for the Hogs. He finished the 2011 season with 10 sacks in 10 games as a hamstring injury forced him to miss three games during the early part of the season.

 

Bequette is fast but not necessarily strong for a defensive end. He has been clocked at 4.5 in the 40-yard dash. He might end up being a weak side defensive end in the NFL.

 

Draft Worthy Mentions:

DT Malik Jackson, Tennessee

DE Tim Fugger, Vanderbilt

 

Defensive Backs:

*Dre Kirkpatrick, 6’3”, 192 pounds, University of Alabama

Kirkpatrick has the size and speed NFL scouts drool over for cornerbacks. His background at Alabama will help him play man defense and zone defense at the next level.

 

Kirkpatrick had zero interceptions in 2011 but had three in 2010.

 

His ability on the field makes him a first round draft pick. Getting busted for marijuana in Bradenton, Florida may drop his draft status.

 

*Morris Claiborne, 6’0”, 185 pounds, LSU

Claiborne is considered the best corner in college football with the ability to be a shut-down corner on the next level. His speed, toughness, and athletic ability will make him a first-round pick for some lucky NFL team.

 

Claiborne had six interceptions during his junior campaign with one returned for a touchdown. He had five interceptions in 2010.

 

*Jonathan Banks, 6’1”, 185 pounds, Mississippi State

Banks is a legitimate cover corner ready for the next level. He had three picks in 2010 and five in 2011 with one returned for a touchdown. He also registered three sacks this season.

His ability to move up in draft status will depend on how well he competes at the NFL Draft Combine.

 

Draft Worthy Mentions:

*CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina

CB Brandon Boykin, Georgia

CB CaseyHayward, Vanderbilt

SS Mark Barron, Alabama

FS Tramain Thomas, Arkansas

SEC Football: Arkansas Places Six Seniors in Post-Season All-Star Games


 

The Arkansas Razorbacks has six seniors out of a total of 51 former SEC players that will participate in three of four different post-season all-star games.

Running back Broderick Green (Little Rock, Arkansas) will be the first former Hog to appear in a game when he suits up for the Casino Del Sol College All-Star Game January 16.

Green, a punishing runner listed at 6’2”, 244 pounds, finished the 2011 college football season with 260 rushing yards on 68 carries. He led the Razorbacks with five rushing touchdowns this year.

For his career at Arkansas he complied 1,235 rushing yards on 308 attempts for 22 touchdowns.

Five other former SEC players will be appearing in the Casino Del Sol All-Star Game: OT Chandler Burden from Kentucky, DE Wayne Dorsey from Ole Miss, QB Jarrett Lee from LSU, CB Anthony Mosley from Kentucky, and LB Austin Johnson from Tennessee.

The Casino Del Sol College All-Star Game takes place in Phoenix, Arizona at the Kino Veterans Memorial Stadium and airs on FOX Sports Net at 8 p.m. EST January 16.

In the East-West Shrine Game the NFL Network will showcase the talents of wide receivers Greg Childs and Jarius Wright along with linebacker Jerry Franklin.

Franklin was a four year starter for the Hogs. He led Arkansas in tackles in each of the past four years finishing with 100 or more tackles in his junior and senior seasons- 101 in 2011 and 100 in 2010.

Franklin was one of eight total Razorbacks voted All-SEC in 2011. He was second team defense as picked by SEC Coaches.

Jarius Wright led the SEC in receiving yards (1,117) and touchdown receptions (12) during his senior season. Wright was one catch shy of tying Tennessee’s Da’Rick Rogers conference leading total of 67.

Greg Childs played much of the 2011 season still recovering from a patellar tendon injury he suffered in the fourth quarter of a 2010 game against Vanderbilt. He had his best game of the season in the Cotton Bowl against the Kansas State Wildcats finishing with five catches for 48 yards.

Childs ended his college football career with 2,069 total receiving yards, 133 receptions, and 15 total touchdowns.

Nine other SEC players will appear in the East-West Shrine Game including: QB John Brantley from Florida, Tauren Poole from Tennessee, DT DeAngelo Tyson, PK Blair Walsh, FB Bruce Figgins from Georgia, DE Kentrell Lockett and OT Bradley Sowell from Ole Miss, C Quentin Saulsberry from Mississippi State, and DT Travian Robertson from South Carolina.

The East-West Shrine Game starts at 4 p.m. EST and will be shown on the NFL Network January 21. The game will be played at Tropicana Field inSt. Petersburg, Florida.

The Senior Bowl has the largest collection of former SEC players among the post-season all-star games with 23 total players appearing including two Razorbacks- WR Joe Adams and DE Jake Bequette.

Jake Bequette was first team All-SEC in 2011 after totaling 10 sacks, five quarterback hurries, and 10.5 tackles for a loss while appearing in 10 games. He had multiple sack games against South Carolina (3), Mississippi State (2), and Kansas State (2).

Joe Adams was a consensus All-American as a punt returner for Arkansas. He ranked No. 2 in Division 1-A in total punt return yards (321), average return yards per punt (16.89), but led all players in returns for a touchdown (4).

Adams was a primary threat in the SEC as one of the Razorbacks top wide receivers. He ranked No. 8 in the SEC with 652 total receiving yards and No. 4 in total receptions with 54 while catching three touchdown passes.

As a threat out of the backfield, Adams had 10 rushing attempts for 139 yards with one touchdown.

The 21 other former SEC players scheduled to play in the Senior Bowl include: RB Vick Ballard from MSU, DT Josh Chapman, Safety Mark Barron, WR Marquis Maze, CB DeQuan Menzie, LB Courtney Upshaw, and C William Vlachos from Alabama, Punter Drew Butler, CB Brandon Boykin, OT Cordy Glenn, and C Ben Jones from Georgia, DT Jaye Howard and RB Chris Rainey from Florida, RT Brandon Mosley and LS Josh Harris from Auburn, CB Casey Hayward from Vanderbilt, DE Melvin Ingram and S/LB Antonio Allen from South Carolina, and OG Will Blackwell, TE Deangelo Peterson, and Safety Brandon Taylor from LSU.

The Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama will air on the NFL Network at 4 p.m. EST January 28.

No former Razorback players will appear in the Battle for Florida played on January 21 at 8 p.m. EST on FOX College Sports in Boca Raton, Florida.

SEC Football: Recapping the 2011 Arkansas Razorbacks with a Look Ahead to 2012


What more can be said about the season Arkansas head coach Bobby Petrino and his Razorback’s have had that has not already been said? Simply put, they had one of the best seasons in the school’s history. With all due respect to all previous Arkansas teams, maybe the second best ever?

Petrino guided Arkansas to their third 11 win season in school history (1964, Broyles, and 1977, Holtz), first in the BCS era. In the process the Razorbacks played four teams ranked in the BCS Top 10 finishing the season with a 29-16 win over Big 12 runner-up, No. 8 Kansas State Wildcats.

Entering the 2011 season the Hogs’ offense only returned four starters from 2010’s 10-win BCS Sugar Bowl team. Players gone to the NFL included: starting quarterback Ryan Mallett, All-SEC offensive linemen DeMarcus Love and Wade Grayson, and Mackey Award winning tight end D.J. Williams.

The Hogs were dealt two significant losses during spring and fall practices when running backs Knile Davis (foot) and Broderick Green (knee) suffered major injuries. Adding to the offensive woes was a hamstring injury to junior running back Dennis Johnson, a 2009 All-American as a kickoff returner.

Petrino had the arduous task of getting first-year starter Junior quarterback Tyler Wilson, three offensive linemen, running back Ronnie Wingo Jr., and a new starting tight end ready for one of the more demanding schedules in college football.

The 2010 Arkansas team was one of the most prolific scoring teams in school history finishing the season No. 17 in scoring offense (36.5 points per game) and No. 9 in total offense (482.5 yards per game) in Division 1-A.

Life was no easier on defense for coordinator Willy Robinson. The Razorbacks returned seven starters after losing players like Rudell Crim, Anthony Leon, and Ramon Broadway.

During the 2010 season the Hogs ranked 36th in total defense (348 yards per game) after playing six ranked teams- No. 1 Alabama, No. 7 Auburn, No. 18 South Carolina, No. 22 Mississippi State, No. 6 LSU, and No. 6 Ohio State.

The overlooked Razorback defense had a stronger finish than most expected ending No. 47 in total defense in 2011 allowing an average of 363 yards per game. Their scoring defense improved from No. 47 (23.4 points per game) in 2010 to No. 33 (22.23 points per game).

Playing not only in the toughest football conference in Division 1-A but perhaps the toughest division in college football history, the Hogs managed to finish the 2011 season with only two defeats, both coming on the road to then No. 3 Alabama and No. 1 LSU.

Regardless of the shortage on returning starters, Petrino added to his reputation as one of the greatest offensive football minds in the game after leading the Hogs to an average of 438.08 yards per game (No. 1 in the SEC) and the No. 16 ranked scoring offense in Division 1-A, averaging 36.77 points per game.

The Razorback offense played four teams that finished in the Top 20 in total defense- No. 1 Alabama, No. 2 LSU, No. 3 South Carolina, and No. 18 Vanderbilt.

On the schedule for the Hogs were Tennessee and Mississippi State. Both teams ended up No. 27 and No. 35 respectively in total defense.

Quarterback Tyler Wilson led the SEC in total passing yards (3,638), completion percentage among quarterbacks with over 300 passing attempts (63.2), total completions (277), and finished second in total touchdown passes (24).

Comparing Wilson’s 2011 season to Mallett’s 2010: Wilson had 11 more completions, eight fewer touchdown passes but threw six fewer interceptions (6 total) than Mallett’s 12. Mallett threw for 231 more total yards thanWilson.

Wilson spread the ball around to his receivers in Petrino’s offense. His favorite target was Senior receiver Jarius Wright. Wright led the SEC in yards (1,117) and touchdowns (12). He finished second to Da’Rick Rogers (Tennessee) in total receptions with 66 toRogers’ 67.

Seven Arkansas players caught 20 or more passes, four amassing over 500 total receiving yards- Wright, Joe Adams 54 catches 652 yards, Cobi Hamilton 34 receptions for 542 yards, Chris Gragg 41 catches for 518 yards, Dennis Johnson 24 receptions for 255 total yards, Greg Childs 21 receptions for 240 yards, and Ronnie Wingo Jr. 20 catches 187 total yards.

Wright, Adams, and Childs are all graduating seniors. Which returning Razorback receivers will replace this dynamic trio?

Cobi Hamilton is a junior with great speed and a knack for breaking loose in the oppositions secondary. As a freshman Hamilton averaged 18.3 yards per catch, as a sophomore he averaged 19.7, and this year he posted a 15.9 yard per catch average.

True freshman wide receiver Marquel Wade (Jacksonville, Florida) made an immediate impact on special teams for the Hogs with his game-breaking speed. Wade averaged 25.6 yards per kickoff return taking one of 14 returns to the house for an 85-yard touchdown.

Julian Horton, Quinta Funderburk, Keante Minor, Maudrecus Humphrey, and Javontee Herndon are all eagerly waiting for their chance to replace the aforementioned departing Razorback receiving core.

Perhaps two of the most difficult players to replace on the entire team will be linebacker Jerry Franklin and defensive end Jake Bequette.

Franklin led the team in tackles in each of the past four seasons. Franklin registered over 100 tackles in each of the past two seasons and was the heart and soul of the Razorback defense.

Bequette finished the season tied for second in the SEC with 10 sacks despite missing action in four different games. Bequette graduates third on the Razorback career sack list with 23.5- Wayne Martin 25.5 and Henry Ford 25.

Junior linebacker Alonzo Highsmith, sophomore defensive end Chris Smith, and true freshman defensive end Trey Flowers (Huntsville, Alabama) all appear ready to take over for the senior players.

Highsmith was second on the team with 4.5 sacks and third in total tackles with 80. Highsmith finished No. 10 in the SEC with 12.5 tackles for a loss. Smith was third on the team with 3.5 sacks and Flowers plays with a motor that never stops.

The secondary will miss the athletic play of safety Tramain Thomas. Thomas led the Razorbacks in interceptions the past two seasons- four in 2010 and five in 2011. He was also second in total tackles for the Hogs this year with 91.

Not accounting for players leaving early for the NFL, the Razorbacks should return seven starters on offense-Wilson, guard Alvin Bailey, center Travis Swanson, tackle Jason Peacock, early season starter true freshman Mitch Smothers (Springdale, Arkansas), tight end Chris Gragg, and running back Dennis Johnson.

Fullback Kiero Small, receiver Cobi Hamilton, and running back Ronnie Wingo’s contributions as starters cannot be overlooked heading into 2012.

Much speculation has centered on the return of All-SEC running back Knile Davis. Most Razorback fans expectDavisto return to his 2010 form in 2012 when he totaled 1,322 rushing yards with 13 touchdowns- second highest total in the SEC to Cam Newton’s 1,473. Rumblings have Davis possibly declaring for the NFL Draft despite missing the entire 2011 season.

Is it too late to start a “one more year” campaign for Davis inFayetteville?

Regardless ofDavis’ 2012 status the Hogs will be stacked at running back with Johnson, Wingo, and Kody Walker returning.

Defensively the Hogs will return seven starters- linemen Bryan Jones, Robert Thomas, and Tenarius Wright, Highsmith, corners Darius Winston and true freshman Tevin Mitchell (Mansfield,Texas) with safety Eric Bennett.

The play of the Razorback front seven against Kansas State in the Cotton Bowl has fans excited about the arrival of new defensive coordinator Paul Haynes.

Arkansas held the Wildcats to 87 total rushing yards while totaling six sacks. The secondary limited KSU quarterback Collin Klein to 173 passing yards.

Is this a sign of things to come from Arkansas’ defense?

On special teams Arkansas will return punter Dylan Breeding and place kick Zach Hocker. Breeding led the SEC in punting averaging 45.28 yards per punt. His ability to flip the field of play was a defensive weapon throughout the season.

Hocker was fourth in the SEC in field goal percentage (78) and tied for second in total field goals (21). Hocker led the SEC with 40 touchbacks on kickoffs.

Dennis Johnson and Marquel Wade give the Razorbacks two of the better return specialist in the SEC. Johnson and Wade both returned kickoffs for touchdowns in 2011.

The schedule plays into Arkansas’ favor in 2012. With seven home games, including SEC rivals Alabama and LSU, and the possible addition of another home non-conference game, the Hogs should find comfort in the friendly confines of Reynolds Razorback Stadium and War Memorial Stadium inLittle Rock. Arkansas was undefeated at home in 2011.

Vanderbilt and Tennessee are rotated off the schedule for a home game against Kentucky. SEC newcomer Texas A&M, a team the Hogs have beaten three straight years in non-conference play, becomes a permanent fixture as a SEC West divisional rival.

With all of the returning talent and home schedule a third straight 10-win season for the Hogs is a more than reasonable expectation.

Petrino leading Arkansas to their only back-to-back 11 win season is a possibility worth visiting Las Vegas.

Watching the Razorbacks roll to the SEC Championship Game in 2012 with a chance to play in the BCS National Championship game is what Razorback Nation has been waiting for.

Any Razorback fans ready for fall practices yet?

2012 Cotton Bowl Preview: No. 6 Arkansas versus No. 8 Kansas State


Friday January 6, 2012 college football fans will witness what happens between vastly contrasting styles of play when the Arkansas Razorbacks take on the Kansas State Wildcats in the 2012 Cotton Bowl in Arlington, Texas.

 

The matchup seem more like a lesson in physics from Archimedes or Albert Einstein than a college football game; a slow moving Kansas State offense against a bending Razorback run defense and a high powered Arkansas offense against a spacious Wildcat pass defense.

 

All of the elements add up to what promises to be one of the best bowl games of the year.

 

Team Overviews

 

KansasStaterelies on a solid ground attack led by Junior quarterback Collin Klein while the Razorbacks are led by their fluid passing Junior quarterback Tyler Wilson.

 

Klein set the single season Wildcat rushing touchdown record this season racking up 26 scores along with 1,099 rushing yards. Should Klein score one more rushing touchdown against the Razorbacks he will tie former Texas running back Ricky Williams for the all-time single season Big 12 record.

 

Klein’s 1,099 total rushing yards was fourth best in the Big 12 and his 91.58 rushing yards per game was the 39th best rushing yard per game average in Division 1-A.

 

Sophomore scat back John Hubert was second on the Wildcat team with 933 rushing yards, seventh best in the Big 12. The 5’7”, 185 pound running back scored three rushing touchdowns and proved to be dangerous as a pass catching option out of the backfield amassing 23 receptions for 193 yards with one touchdown on the season.

 

A deceptive running option for the Wildcats had been wide receiver Tyler Lockett. Lockett, a freshman from Tulsa, Oklahoma, rushed 10 times for 110 yards before a lacerated kidney ended his season.

 

Will KSU head coach Bill Snyder find another speedy option on reverses or option running plays to replace Lockett?

 

Klein threw for 1,745 yards in 2012 ranking him No. 8 in the Big 12; per team totals KSU was last in the Big 12 in total passing yards.

 

Klein’s average passing yards per game (145.42) plus his average rushing yards per game (91.58) ranks him 45th in the nation in total yards per game (237).

 

Chris Harper is the leading receiver for KSU. He caught 39 passes for 536 yards with five touchdowns. Tramaine Thompson is second on the team with 18 catches for 281 yards with one score.

 

The Wildcat offense ranked No. 96 in Division 1-A averaging 343.42 yards per game.

 

In comparison to Kansas State, Arkansas’ offense operates at the speed of light. The Razorback’s offense ranked No. 25 in the nation averaging 445.83 yards per game.

 

Arkansashead coach Bobby Petrino relied on Tyler Wilson to lead his pass happy attack in 2012 after Ryan Mallett departed for the NFL at the end of last season.

 

Wilson, a first-year starter, is averaging 285 passing yards per game, 21st best in college football.

 

Wilson’s favorite target has been Senior wide receiver Jarius Wright. Wright is first in the SEC in receiving touchdowns (11) and second in the SEC in total receiving yards (1,029).

 

Wright only needs four catches against KSU to tie Ja’Rick Rogers (Tennessee) for the SEC lead (67) in total receptions and he is 12 receiving yards away from passingRogers(1,040) for the SEC lead in total receiving yards.

 

Wilson has done a great job of spreading the ball around within the offense. Joe Adams is No. 5 in the SEC in total receiving yards (630) with 49 receptions, Cobi Hamilton is No. 12 (516) with 31 receptions, and tight end Chris Gragg has 40 catches for 492 total yards.

 

The Razorback running game has been by committee for most of the 2011 season. Junior running back Ronnie Wingo Jr. was the early season starter for the Hogs while Dennis Johnson (hamstring) and Broderick Green (knee) recovered from injuries.

 

Wingo accumulated 280 of his 440 rushing yards in the first six games of the season before giving way to Johnson. Since Dennis Johnson’s return to full-time work, he has rushed for 637 yards with three touchdowns ranking No. 12 in the SEC.

 

Johnson and Wingo are both threats in the passing game. Johnson has caught 22 passes for 253 and Wingo has 19 receptions for 183 yards.

 

Both backs give way to Senior Broderick Green on short yardage and goal line situations. Green has five rushing touchdowns on 61 attempts.

 

For the season the Hogs are ranked No. 81 in Division 1-A in total rushing yards with 1,657. Arkansas ranks No. 25 in total offense averaging 445.83.

 

 

Key Matchups

 

Kansas State’s running attack versus Arkansas’ run defense: The Razorback run defense has been a dark matter during the season. The Hogs fought through injuries to four starters (Bequette, Winston, Wright, and Madison) from theAlabamagame to the Tennessee game finishing the season allowing 174.33 rushing yards per game.

 

One of the weak areas for the Hogs has been their ability to stop running quarterbacks. Opposing quarterbacks have typically run against the Razorbacks on broken plays or resulting from excellent downfield coverage.

 

Klein runs on every play not just on passing plays gone wrong.

 

Can the Hogs stop a “Wildcat” quarterback?

 

Arkansas’ passing attack versusKansasState’s pass defense: In KSU’s two losses to Oklahoma and Oklahoma State the pass defense allowed Landry Jones (OU) and Brandon Weeden (OSU) to pass for over 500 yards. Jones threw five touchdowns and Weeden threw four on the Wildcats.

 

The Wildcats secondary is led by undersized junior college transfer cornerback Nigel Malone. Malone, listed at 5’10”, 175 pounds, led the team in interceptions with seven ranking first in the Big 12.

 

In a pass first league KSU only managed 18 sacks on the season. Will Snyder’s defense be able to force the dynamicWilsoninto turnovers?

 

Wilson has 22 passing touchdowns on the season with six interceptions. He has faced six pass defenses ranked in the Top 25 – No. 1 Alabama, No. 2 South Carolina, No. 8 LSU, No. 13 Tennessee, No. 19 Vanderbilt, and No. 22 Ole Miss.

 

The Hogs offensive line has been a wave of missed assignments in pass blocking schemes during the 2011 season. In 12 games they have surrendered 25 sacks, tied for 71st in Division 1-A, but Wilson has been hit or knocked down repeatedly after releasing the ball.

 

If the Wildcats hope to slow down the Razorback passing game they will have to attack the offensive line with blitzes and stunts throughout the game.

 

The Statistics

 

Total Offense: Arkansas No. 27, Kansas State 96

Scoring Offense: Arkansas No. 14,Kansas State 30

Rushing Offense: Arkansas No.79, Kansas State 29

Passing Offense: Arkansas No. 13, Kansas State 109

 

Total Defense: Arkansas 52, Kansas State 74

Scoring Defense: Arkansas 37, Kansas State 69

Rushing Defense: Arkansas 80, Kansas State 39

Passing Defense: Arkansas 26,  Kansas State 105

 

Net Punting: Arkansas46,Kansas   State 50

Punt Returns: Arkansas 15, Kansas  State55

Kickoff Returns: Arkansas 32, Kansas State 9

 

Turnover Margin: Arkansas 59, Kansas State 5

 

Game Analysis

 

On paper the Cotton Bowl pits an accelerating offense opposed by a collision-grind it out offense. Both defenses will be challenged by the other’s offense.

 

When Arkansas faced a similar pass defense in Texas A&M, ranked No. 109 to K State’s 105, Tyler Wilson threw for a school record 510 yards with two touchdowns and zero interceptions.

 

WhenKansasStatefaced similar passing offenses toArkansas, they lost both games- Oklahoma 58-17 and Oklahoma State 42-45.

 

Snyder’s Wildcat team has one defeat against a team ranked at the time of their game- No. 15 Baylor.

 

Petrino has led the Razorbacks against five ranked teams, three in the Top 10 at the time of the game. The Hogs record is 3-2 against those teams- Alabama, Texas A&M, Auburn, South Carolina, and LSU.

 

Common 2011 Opponent: Texas A&M

Kansas State won 53-50

Arkansas won 42-38

 

Field goal attempts:

Kansas State is 17-21, with four misses on kicks between 30-49 yards

Arkansas is 18-24, with five misses on kicks between 30-49 yards

 

Punting Average:

Arkansas punter Dylan Breeding leads the SEC in punting averaging 45.2 yards per punt

Kansas State punter Ryan Doerr is No. 8 in the Big 12 in punting averaging 39.9 yards per punt

 

Prediction

 

Bowl games can showcase the talented teams from the regular season or they can show that the month plus long layoff between games proves to be too much of a distraction for some teams. All coaches have to fight the inertia, rust, players facing graduation, and players looking forward to the NFL to keep their teams focused. Will the Razorbacks or Wildcats face this problem in the Cotton Bowl?

 

Both teams can play the disrespect card of not being in a BCS Bowl Game. Kansas State was outright snubbed by the Sugar Bowl because of a thought lack of a traveling fan base. While the Razorbacks momentum was stopped by the BCS rule of no more than two BCS teams per conference forcing them to yield toAlabamaand LSU in the BCS National Championship Game.

 

Arkansas’ offense is battle tested in a defense first conference. Texas, ranked No. 12 in total defense, is the only Top 50 defense the Wildcats have faced this year. Oklahoma is the second best defense they played- No. 55.

 

Klein will keep drives alive with his feet as he has done all season long. He was beat up at the end of the regular season. A month off should prove to be a big advantage for the Wildcats’ offense and Klein’s ability to produce within the offense.

 

The big question is can Snyder control the game clock with his running game and limit the Razorback’s offensive possessions?

 

The game will come down to Bobby Petrino’s offense. If the Razorback offense comes ready to play their potential energy should prove to be too much for the Wildcat pass defense.

 

Final Score

 

Arkansas 38, Kansas State 28

 

 

Cotton Bowl Game Time Information

The Cotton Bowl will be played January 6, 2012, at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

 

Game time is 8:00 p.m. EST on FOX.

 

FOX Broadcast Team

Gus Johnson – Play-by-play

Charles Davis – Color

Tim Brewster – Sideline Reporter

2012 Cotton Bowl Depth Chart: Arkansas Razorbacks versus Kansas State Wildcats


It comes as no surprise that the 2012 Cotton Bowl between No. 6 Arkansas and No. 8 Kansas State features two depth charts loaded with upper classmen.

 

The Arkansas Razorbacks have five seniors and seven juniors listed on their two-deep offensive depth chart. The notable Hog seniors include a trio of wide receivers – Jarius Wright, Greg Childs, and Joe Adams.

 

Adamswas a consensus All-American as a punt returner and Wright leads the SEC in receiving touchdowns.

 

The Kansas State Wildcats list five seniors and 10 juniors on their offensive depth chart. None more important on offense than junior quarterback Collin Klein and junior running back John Hubert.

 

On defense the Wildcats have a pair of junior transfers, cornerback Nigel Morgan from City College of San Francisco and linebacker Arthur Brown from University of Miami, that are the heart and soul of their team.

 

Jerry Franklin, the Razorbacks’ Senior middle linebacker, is a four-year starter and team leader in tackles. Tramain Thomas leads the Hogs in interceptions (5) while senior defensive end Jake Bequette leads the team in sacks (8.5).

 

Kansas State does not have an Arkansas player listed on their team.

 

Defensive tackle Robert Thomas is the onlyArkansasplayer with immediate ties to the state of Kansas. Thomas graduated high school from Muskogee, Oklahoma but is a junior college transfer from Coffeyville, Kansas.

The following is a two-deep listing of the depth charts for the Arkansas Razorbacks and Kansas State Wildcats heading into the 2012 Cotton Bowl.

 

Arkansas Razorbacks

 

Offense

WR Joe Adams (Sr.)

Julian Horton (So.)

WR Jarius Wright (Sr.)

Marquel Wade (Fr.)

WR Cobi Hamilton (Jr.) or

Greg Childs (Sr.)

RB Dennis Johnson (Jr.) or

Ronnie Wingo Jr. (Jr.)

FB Kiero Small (Jr.)

QB Tyler Wilson (Jr.)

Brandon Mitchell (So.)

TE Chris Gragg (Jr.)

Austin Tate (So.)

OT Jason Peacock (Jr.) or

Mitch Smothers (Fr.)

OG Grant Cook (Sr.)

Luke Charpentier (Fr.)

C Travis Swanson (So.)

Tyler Deacon (Jr.)

OG Alvin Bailey (So.)

Chris Stringer (So.)

OT Grant Freeman (Sr.)

Brey Cook (Fr.)

 

Defense

DE Jake Bequette (Sr.)

Chris Smith (So.)

DT Bryan Jones (So.)

Alfred Davis (Jr.)

DT Robert Thomas (So.)

DeQuinta Jones (Jr.)

DE Tenarius Wright (Jr.)

Trey Flowers (Fr.)

OLB Alonzo Highsmith (Jr.)

Bret Harris (Sr.)

MLB Jerry Franklin (Sr.)

Terrell Williams (Jr.)

OLB Jerrico Nelson (Sr.)

Ross Rasner (Jr.)

CB Darius Winston (Jr.)

Tevin Mitchell (Fr.)

S Eric Bennett (So.)

Elton Ford (Sr.)

S TramainThomas (Sr.)

Ryan Farr (Jr.)

CB Isaac Madison (Sr.)

Greg Gatson (Sr.)

 

Special Teams

K Zach Hocker (So.)

P Dylan Breeding (Sr.)

SNP Alan D’Appollonio (Fr.)

H Brian Buehner (Fr.)

KOR Dennis Johnson (Sr.)

Marquel Wade (Fr.)

PR Joe Adams (Sr.)

Marquel Wade (Fr.)

 

 

*Information obtained from the 2012 Arkansas Razorback Cotton Bowl Media Guide

 

 

Kansas State Wildcats

 

Offense

WR Chris Harper (Jr.)

Tramaine Thompson (So.)

WR Sheldon Smith (Sr.)

Curry Sexton (Fr.)

WR Brodrick Smith (Jr.)

Torell Miller (So.)

RB John Hubert (So.)

Angelo Pease (Jr.)

FB BradenWilson(Jr.)

Jay Hanley (Jr.)

QB Collin Klein (Jr.)

Sammuel Lamur (Sr.)

TE Travis Tannahill (Jr.)

Andre McDonald (So.)

RT Clyde Aufner (Sr.)

Cornelius Lucas (So.)

RG Colten Freeze (Sr.)

Jordan Allred (Jr.)

C B.J. Finney (Fr.)

Tomasi Mariner (Fr.)

LG Nick Puetz (Jr.)

Keenan Taylor (So.)

LT Zach Hanson (Sr.)

Ethan Douglas (Jr.)

 

Defense

CB Nigel Malone (Jr.)

Allen Champman (Jr.)

FS Tysyn Hartman (Sr.)

Matthew Pearson (Sr.)

SS Ty Zimmerman (So.)

Thomas Ferguson (Jr.)

CB David Garrett (Sr.)

Kip Daily (Jr.)

WLB Tre Walker (So.)

Blake Slaughter (Jr.)

MLB Arthur Brown (Jr.)

Jarell Childs (Jr.)

SLB Emmanuel Lamur (Sr.)

Jonathan Truman (Fr.)

DE Jordan Voelker (Sr.)

Meshak Williams (Jr.)

DT Vai Lutui (Jr.)

Raphael Guidry (Sr.)

NT Ray Kibble (Sr.)

John Sua (Jr.)

DE Adam Davis (Jr.)

Laton Dowling (Fr.)

 

Special Teams

K Anthony Cantele (Jr.)

P Ryan Doerr (Jr.)

KOR Tramaine Thompson (So.)

Chris Harper (Jr.)

PR Tramaine Thompson (So.)

Ty Zimmerman (So.)

 

*Information obtained from the 2011-2012 Kansas State Cotton Bowl Media Guide

 

The Cotton Bowl will be played January 6, 2012, at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

 

Game time is 8:00 p.m. EST on FOX.

 

FOX Broadcast Team

Gus Johnson – Play-by-play

Charles Davis – Color

Tim Brewster – Sideline Reporter

Arkansas Razorbacks: Tyler Wilson Named First Team All-SEC


Wilson and Wright named first team All-SEC.

Tyler Wilson has done something no other Arkansas Razorback has ever accomplished he’s been named first team All-SEC at the quarterback position.

 

Wilsonalong with six other Razorback players was named to All-SEC teams Monday. Wide receivers Jarius Wright and Joe Adams were selected first team All-SEC as well. Adams selection was as an all-purpose player for his contributions as a punt returner and wide receiver.

 

Arkansassecond team picks included linebacker Jerry Franklin, punter Dylan Breeding, guard Alvin Bailey, and running back Dennis Johnson; Johnson was an all-purpose selection for his kickoff return abilities and play at running back.

 

Senior safety Tramain Thomas received an honorable mention. Thomas had five interceptions during the 2011 season tying him for No. 10 in FBS and No. 4 in the SEC.

 

Missing from the All-SEC lists is senior defensive end Jake Bequette. Bequette missed significant game time and three total games with an early season hamstring injury but still managed to finish the season with eight sacks. Bequette’s eight sacks ranked No. 8 in the SEC.

 

Jarvis Jones led the SEC in sacks with 13.5, finishing second in college football during the regular season to Whitney Mercilus a defensive end forIllinois.

 

The following is a list of the All-SEC honorees, their position, their school, and their class:

 

First Team Offense

QB – Tyler Wilson,Arkansas, Jr.

RB – Trent Richardson, Alabama, Jr.

RB – Michael Dyer, Auburn, So.

WR –Jarius Wright, Arkansas, Sr.

WR – Da’Rick Rogers, Tennessee, So.

OL –Barret Jones,Alabama, Jr.

OL –Rokevious Watkins, South Carolina, Sr.

OL – Cordy Glenn, Georgia, Sr.

OL – Will Balckwell, LSU, Sr.

C  -William Vlachos, Alabama, Sr.

TE –Orson Charles, Georgia, Jr.

 

Special Teams

K –Caleb Sturgis, Florida, Jr.

AP – Joe Adams, Arkansas, Sr.

 

First Team Defense

DT – Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State, Jr.

DT –Malik Jackson, Tennessee, Sr.

DE – Melvin Ingram,South Carolina, Sr.

DE – Sam Montgomery, LSU, So.

LB – Danny Trevathan, Kentucky, Sr.

LB – Courtney Upshaw, Alabama, Sr.

LB –Jarvis Jones,Georgia, So.

CB – Morris Claiborne, LSU, Jr.

CB – Tyrann Mathieu, LSU, So.

S –Mark Barron, Alabama, Sr.

S –Bacarri Rambo,Georgia, Jr.

 

Special Teams

P – Brad Wing, LSU, Fr.

 

 

Second Team Offense

QB – Aaron Murray, Georgia, So.

RB – Zac Stacy, Vanderbilt, Jr.

RB –Vick Ballard, Mississippi State, Sr.

WR –Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina, Jr.

WR – Rueben Randle, LSU, Jr.

OL – Alvin Bailey, Arkansas, So.

OL – Chris Faulk, LSU, So.

OL – Larry Warford,Kentucky, Jr.

OL – Gabe Jackson, Mississippi State, So.

C –Ben Jones, Georgia, Sr.

TE – Philip Lutzenkirchen, Auburn, Jr.

 

Special Teams

K- Drew Alleman, LSU, Jr.

AP – Dennis Johnson, Arkansas, Jr.

 

Second Team Defense

DT – Michael Brockers, LSU, So.

DT – Josh Chapman, Alabama, Sr.

DE – Cory Lemonier, Auburn, So.

DE – Barkevious Mingo, LSU, So.

LB – Chris Marve, Vanderbilt, Sr.

LB – Jerry Franklin, Arkansas, Sr.

LB – Don’t’A Hightower, Alabama, Jr.

CB –Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama, Jr.

CB – Casey Hayward, Vanderbilt, Sr.

S –Antonio Allen, South Carolina, Sr.

S – Eric Reid, LSU, So.

 

Special Teams

P –Dylan Breeding, Arkansas, Jr.

 

Offensive Player of the Year

Trent Richardson, Alabama

 

Defensive Player of the Year

Tyrann Mathieu, LSU

 

Coach of the Year

Les Miles, LSU

 

Freshman of the Year

Isaiah Crowell, Georgia

College Football: Mississippi State Trying to Catch No. 6 Arkansas Looking Ahead


The tale of two teams thought to be on a similar rise in the SEC West just a season ago could not be any more different as the Mississippi State Bulldogs travel to Little Rock, Arkansas this weekend in an attempt to knock off No. 6 Arkansas.

Last season Mississippi State, 9-4, appeared to be on the brink of taking a major step towards contending with the SEC West elite teams. The Bulldogs had wins over SEC powerhouses Georgia, Florida, and crushed their in-state rival Ole Miss in the Egg Bowl. MSU finished the season with a 52-14 win over University of Michigan in the Gator Bowl.

The return of 15 starters and a preseason ranking of No. 20 brought high expectations for Mississippi State’s head coach Dan Mullen. High hopes have turned to a disappointing season for the 5-5 Bulldogs. Instead of challenging the SEC upper crust teams, Mullen has two games left to become bowl eligible.

The Razorbacks finished 2010 with their first appearance in a BCS Bowl when they accepted a bid to play Ohio State in the Sugar Bowl. Even with the departure of quarterback Ryan Mallett and Mackey Award winning tight end D.J. Williams to the NFL along with only returning 11 starters, the Hogs have surpassed their preseason No. 15 ranking.

The 9-1 Arkansas Razorbacks have been focused and sharp entering the stretch run of their season after two lackluster road performances against lower tiered SEC teams Vanderbilt and Ole Miss. Arkansas easily defeated then No. 10 South Carolina 44-28 and University of Tennessee 49-7 in back-to-back home games as they narrow in on the biggest game of their season against No. 1 LSU.

The Bulldogs have struggled off and on all season as indicated by their 5-5 record. There has been inconsistent quarterback play between the shuffling in and out of senior Chris Relf, sophomore Tyler Russell, and freshman Dylan Farve. Combined the quarterbacks are averaging 204 passing yards per game with 10 total interceptions thrown on the season.

MSU senior running back Vick Ballard has suffered through poor offensive line play and a lack of a passing attack to put up solid numbers on the season. Ballard is ranked 6th in the SEC with 811 total rushing yards, though the majority of his rushing yards have come in non-conference games – 437 yards.

MSU’s defense has played well without the support of the offense. The Bulldog defense is ranked 40th in the nation in total defense holding teams to 353 yards per game.

The Razorbacks underperformed on defense in tough games on the road early in the season but have made significant strides over the past four contests. The addition of injured players Tank Wright, Isaac Madison, Darius Winston, and Jake Bequette back into the defensive rotation has allowed defensive coordinator Willy Robinson more flexibility in calling stunts and blitzes.

Throughout the season Arkansas has relied on the arm of quarterback Tyler Wilson. Wilson’s 2,850 total passing yards leads the SEC and he is second in touchdown passes thrown with 18. His favorite target, Jarius Wright, leads the SEC in total receiving yards with 906 and 11 receiving touchdowns even though he has missed one game this season -Troy.

Razorback fans are fearful that the Hogs will get caught looking ahead to LSU by a hungry Bulldog team. Arkansas head coach Bobby Petrino is well aware of the talent Mississippi State has despite their 5-5 record. In 2010 MSU took Arkansas into double overtime before the Hogs pulled out a 38-31 victory on a seven yard touchdown pass by Ryan Mallett to Knile Davis.

What’s at Stake for Both Teams?

An upset victory over Arkansas would knock the Hogs out of contention for a possible shared SEC West Division Title and take away a potential BCS Bowl berth. The Razorbacks are well aware of what is riding on the line against MSU.

A Bulldogs win would mean they are bowl eligible for a second year in a row, something the Bulldogs have only done two other times in school history, 1980-81 and 1999-2000.

Inside the Mississippi State versus Arkansas Game

Vick Ballard and Chris Relf both rushed for over 100-yards with four combined touchdowns against the Razorbacks last year.

Jarius Wright had 2 catches for 105 yards and 1 touchdown last year against MSU.

Arkansas averages 455 yards of total offense per game ranking 26th in FBS.

Arkansas’ defense allows an average of 375 yards per game, 56th in FBS.

Mississippi State gains an average of 373 total yards of offense per game.

Arkansas averages 38.80 points per game.

Mississippi State averages 25.80 points per game.

Mississippi State holds teams to 19.20 points per game.

Arkansas holds teams to 21.50 points per game.

Arkansas averages 311 passing yards per game.

Mississippi State averages 203.80 passing yards per game.

Mississippi State’s pass defense is limiting teams to 186 yards per game.

MSU’s lone conference win came against 4-6 Kentucky.

Arkansas has won nine straight games in Little Rock.

The Razorbacks have won 11 of the last 12 games versus Mississippi State.

Prediction

Mississippi State could salvage their season by beating the Hogs inLittle Rock.Arkansascould throw away a possible shared SEC West Divisional Conference Title, a potential SEC Championship Game berth, and a possible BCS Bowl bid by losing to the Bulldogs. Both teams have a lot to play for only Arkansas has a lot to lose.

Playing at home, Arkansas has more talent, one of the best passing attacks in college football, and more riding on the line.

Petrino delivers Arkansas’ first undefeated season at home since 1999.

Final Score

Arkansas 28, Mississippi State 13

SEC College Football Preview: Looking Ahead to No. 15 Auburn vs. No. 10 Arkansas


How do you like your college football offense? Do you like watching a workhorse get 30-40 carries in a game? Or do you like watching a quarterback attempt 30-50 passes in a game? However you like your offense, the Auburn versus Arkansas game should fill your Saturday with plenty of excitement.

The Auburn Tigers

 

Auburn, the 2010 BCS National Champions, started the 2011 season with a comeback victory over Utah State 42-38 at Jordan-Hare Stadium. The Tigers had to score twice in the final 2:07 of the game for the win and have been fighting for national respect every since.

 

The following game the Tigers extended their winning streak to 17-games with a home win against 16th ranked Mississippi State. Auburn’s defense stuffed MSU quarterback Chris Relf with 10 seconds to play at the goal line to hold on for a 41-34 victory. Still, no respect was given toAuburn. Everyone was waiting for an Auburn collapse as they only had five-starters returning from last year’s team.

 

Unranked Clemson brought Auburn back to reality with a 14-point beating in Death Valley. Finally the real Tiger team was exposed and no more late game heroics could save them. Or did Auburn just happen to lose 38-24 on the road to a really good team?

 

Clemson has won three straight games over ranked opponents and are now ranked 8th in the nation.

 

Auburnwas given an “adjustment game” against Florida Atlantic, winning 30-14, before starting a tough four-game conference schedule against teams that are all featured in the Associated Press Top 25; at South Carolina, at Arkansas, versus Florida, at LSU.

 

Auburn fans would hope for a 2-2 record through this tough stretch. Auburn players are wanting more than that, they’re for real and they want the rest of the world to take notice.

 

The Tigers had nothing to lose but everything to gain when facing No. 10 South Carolina at Williams-Brice Stadium in week five action. The game would be a matchup of two of the top running backs in the SEC and in the nation, Auburn’s Michael Dyer andSouth Carolina’s Marcus Lattimore.

 

Auburn’s late game heroics were far from over. A nine-yard Barrett Trotter touchdown pass with 1:38 left in the game would give the Tiger’s a 16-13 win.

 

Michael Dyer would win the running back battle over Lattimore finishing the game with 141-yards and one touchdown while setting an Auburn rushing attempts record with 41 carries. Lattimore finished the game with 66-yards on 17 attempts and one score.

 

The Arkansas Razorbacks

 

How many injuries does it take to derail a promising Arkansas Razorback football season?

 

One injury was thought to be enough when All-SEC running back Knile Davis was lost for the season with a left ankle injury during fall practices. Much was expected of Davis after he rushed for 1,322 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in what seemed like only half of a season last year.

 

Even with quarterback Ryan Mallett departed to the NFL along with three offensive linemen and their Mackey Award wining tight end, D.J. Williams, Arkansas was given national respect because of Davis and Bobby Petrino’s offense. After the injury to Davis, Petrino was left with the task of finding another offensive option. Now college football fans are aware of Tyler Wilson.

 

Wilsonhas been more than impressive as the starting quarterback for the Razorbacks. With limited action in his first two starts, Wilson is still leading the SEC in passing yards (7th in the nation) with 1,517 yards, second in the SEC with 10 passing touchdowns and only three interceptions in 172 attempts.

 

Wilson’s go-to receiver, Jarius Wright, leads the SEC with 28 receptions and in receiving yards with 478. Wright’s 119.50 receiving yards per game is 10th best in college football.

 

The Razorbacks had other injuries to deal with on offense other than Knile Davis. Second string running back Broderick Green, a senior, was thought to be lost for the season when he tore his ACL during spring practices. Dennis Johnson, a 2009 All-American as a kick-off returner, was hurt during the first game of the 2010 season missing the rest of the year. Johnson did not play in the first three games of this season and had limited action against Alabama while recovering from a hamstring injury.

 

Arkansas started the season with three wins in their non-conference warm-up games; Missouri State 51-7, New Mexico 52-3, and Troy 38-28. Through the first three games Arkansas was never able to find a rhythm at running back with junior running back Ronnie Wingo Jr. as the starter.

 

Wingo rushed for 43-yards against Missouri State, 73-yards against New Mexico, and 109-yards and two touchdowns against Troy. On short yardage or goal line plays Petrino was using true freshman Kody Walker (Jefferson City, Missouri) instead of Wingo.

 

Alabamawas able to limit Arkansas to 17-net yards rushing holding Wingo to 35-yards rushing on eleven attempts in a 38-14 loss.Arkansas’s offense had become one dimensional relying solely on the arm of Tyler Wilson.

 

Green and Johnson both made major contributions against Texas A&M which could be the turning point to the Razorback season. Johnson and Green were able to gain critical first downs in the second half using their tough and physical running styles. Green added two rushing touchdowns, his second touchdown proved to be the winning score for the Razorbacks.

 

Arkansas’ injury problems have not stopped with the offense.Arkansashas been without both of their starting defensive ends Jake Bequette (missed three games) and Tenarius Wright (injured against Alabama, out 4-6 weeks). Starting cornerbacks Issac Madison (injured against Alabama, did not play against Texas A&M) and Darius Winston (injured during the Texas A&M game) have both missed significant game time. Junior college transfer Robert Thomas, a defensive lineman, was hurt against Texas A&M as well.

 

Arkansas’ early season has seen Petrino and defensive coordinator Willy Robinson plug and play around key injuries and inexperience on both sides of the ball. Through it all, Arkansas is now ranked 10th in the nation after a 42-38 victory over Texas A&M.

 

 

Key Match-ups: Auburn vs. Arkansas

 

Can Arkansas stop Auburn’s top running back, Michael Dyer?

 

Arkansas gave up 381-rushing yards to Texas A&M; Christine Michael 230, Cyrus Grey 95. Alabama ran for 197-net yards against the Hogs; Trent Richardson 126 yards, Eddie Lacy 61.

 

Arkansas’ rushing defense is ranked 82nd in the nation allowing 168.20 yards per game.

 

Dyer is third in the SEC in total rushing yards with 567 and third in rushing touchdowns with seven. His 113.40 rushing yards per game ranks him 18th in the nation.

 

Arkansas is expecting defensive end Jake Bequette and cornerback Issac Madison to return against Auburn which should help their overall defensive performance. The Hogs will still be without defensive tackle Robert Thomas and cornerback Darius Winston.

 

Even if the Razorbacks are at full strength would they be able to slow down Dyer?

 

 

Can Auburn stop Arkansas’ passing attack?

 

The Tiger defense is ranked 74th in the nation in pass defense allowing 232.80 yards per game. The only true passing teamAuburnhas faced this season is Clemson. Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd threw for 386-yards and four touchdowns against Auburn.

 

The Razorbacks are 16th in the nation in scoring offense averaging 39.40 points per game.

 

Jarius Wright (478), Cobi Hamilton (318), and Joe Adams (235) are all ranked in the top 15 in the SEC for total yards receiving.

 

Will the young and inexperienced Tiger secondary be able to keep up with the Razorbacks wide receiving unit?

 

Tiger cornerback Chris Davis was held out of the South Carolina game due to an ankle injury. Auburn will need every available body healthy come Saturday.

 

 

Recent Series History

 

Over the last five years Arkansas holds 3-2 series lead over Auburn. Auburn has been ranked at the time of each game including their 2006 meeting at Jordan-Hare Stadium when Auburn was ranked second in the nation. This will be the second straight year that both teams are ranked at the time of their game and the first time the Razorbacks are ranked ahead of the Tigers.

 

2010 (12) Arkansas43 at (7) Auburn 65

2009 (17) Auburn 23 at Arkansas 44

2008 Arkansas 25 at (20) Auburn 22

2007 (22) Auburn 9 at Arkansas 7

2006 Arkansas 27 at (2) Auburn 10

 

* Rankings in parenthesis

 

Inside the Game

 

Auburn has two prized 5-star recruits from the state of Arkansas on their roster, true sophomore running back Michael Dyer (Little Rock Christian) and true freshman quarterback Kiehl Frazier (Shiloh Christian, Springdale). Auburn has been using Frazier in the Wildcat formation for a change of pace on offense.

Auburn offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn is a former Arkansas high school football coach (Shiloh Christian) and was the offensive coordinator at the University of Arkansas in 2006.

 

Outcome

 

Both teams are coming off upset wins in their previous game. Arkansas over then ranked No. 14 Texas A&M 42-38 and Auburn over then ranked No. 10 South Carolina 16-13.

Was Auburn’s defense against South Carolina a sign of their maturation or a poorly executed offensive game plan by USC?

The Tigers will take credit for three Stephen Garcia sacks and his two interceptions. Garcia completed 39 percent of his passes finishing with a total of 160-yards passing; and lost his starting job in the process. Don’t look for Wilson to have similar results.

Marcus Lattimore was held to 66-yards rushing with one score. The Gamecocks also fumbled the ball three times losing two while finishing the game 2 for 10 on third down conversion attempts.

The Razorback defense had only allowed one rushing touchdown prior to the A&M game. A&M had an amazing first half racking up 404 yards of offense and 35 points. Through all of the defensive injuries, Willy Robinson made the correct halftime defensive adjustments making the second half a different game. Arkansas limited the Aggies to 3 second half points.

 

The ability to pick up short yardage first downs with the run and control the clock with the running game in the fourth quarter is something the Razorbacks have been missing. Arkansas appears to have found their power running game with the return of Dennis Johnson and Broderick Green.

 

Auburn wide receiver Emory Blake did not play a full second half against South Carolina. His ability to play will help shape Auburn’s offensive attack. Auburn is already one dimensional with Michael Dyer. If Blake cannot play Arkansas will be able to stack the box against Dyer.

 

Auburn’s 74th ranked scoring defense yields 27.40 points per game.

Arkansas’ defense only allows 22.80 points per game ranking 48th in FBS.

 

Final Score

Dyer runs but not enough as Tyler Wilson exploits the Tiger’s secondary for a 38-24 win.