Ten Questions For the Razorbacks
Arkansas opens preseason practice today and has 31 days until the season opener against Tennessee Tech in Razorback Stadium on Sept. 4. Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino and the Razorbacks know there are plenty of questions to answer on the practice field in that time. Here’s a look at some of the most pressing facing the Razorbacks this month:
1. How is Mallett after the long layoff? — It’s the topic EVERYONE will pay attention to starting today. Mallett is supposed to be ready after being slowed all summer by two foot surgeries. The preseason will finally provide an answer.
2. Who will help the big four at WR? — The Hogs have four explosive receivers expecting another big year. But Petrino and the Hogs need help at the position from youngsters. Who can Arkansas turn to for depth after losing veteran backups?
3. Will freshmen win kicking jobs? — PK Alex Tejada and P Dylan Breeding will be pushed by newcomers Eduardo Camara and Zach Hocker. Petrino is thrilled about the competition, believing it will make Arkansas better on special teams.
4. Is Rudell Crim the answer at safety? — Crim’s late-spring move from cornerback to safety looked promising. How will it look this fall? Arkansas is counting on the second-year player to lock down one of the defense’s most important spots.
5. Will a No. 1 running back emerge? — It’s a given that four players will share carries for Arkansas in the fall. But the preseason will help Petrino find out which one he can count on the most as Arkansas tries to improve its attack.
6. Is there enough depth at linebacker? — Jerry Franklin, Jerico Nelson and Freddie Burton are back, but depth is a concern. Terrell Williams, Jermaine Love, Bret Harris and Austin Moss could help ease those concerns with strong preseasons.
7. Can Arkansas find a punt returner? — Arkansas hasn’t had a dangerous punt returner since Marvin Jackson in 2003. Petrino said Arkansas must find one this month. An interesting battle between youngsters and veterans should be taking place.
8. Who replaces DT Malcolm Sheppard? — The Razorbacks are confident they have more talent and depth along the defensive line. But losing a veteran up front like Sheppard isn’t easy. So the Hogs are looking for an All-SEC player to emerge.
9. How much will the Pistol help? — Arkansas’ biggest offensive goal is improving the run game, something that started by installing the “Pistol” last spring. But backs and linemen must make sure running out of the “Shot” works this preseason.
10. Is Willy Robinson’s defense ready? — This may be the last question, but is probably the most important of the preseason. After struggling the past two years, Arkansas knows its defense will be counted on. But can it answer the call?
Follow Robbie Neiswanger on Twitter (@NWARobbie) for frequent news, notes and updates from Arkansas’ practices throughout the preseason.
