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This week marks a year since Arkansas Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek decided to make a coaching change on the hill. This decision has provided a quick turnaround for the program. On Saturday, the Hogs defeated the Tennessee Volunteers to earn their third conference victory and second straight home victory. Head Coach Sam Pittman needed only six games to reach three SEC wins, a feat that Chad Morris never accomplished and required numerous attempts for previous head coaches Bret Bielema and Bobby Petrino.
Athlon Sports Columnist Bryan Fischer on Twitter:
Took Sam Pittman six games to get three SEC wins at Arkansas.
— Bryan Fischer (@BryanDFischer) November 8, 2020
Chad Morris didn’t win a single one. Bret Bielema took 18 games to get three SEC wins, Petrino took 11.
The Razorback faithful entered the season with hopes of merely competing against the grueling SEC schedule that was dealt in August. However, Sam Pittman has quickly transformed the perception of the program on a national level. There is a difference between playing to win and playing to compete, and the 2020 Razorbacks are here to win. Moral victories are now in the past, as the Hogs expect a victory with each Saturday’s arrival. The players have bought into Pittman’s system, and his staff promptly instilled a culture of grit and determination. These Hogs and Pittman are beginning to receive their deserved publicity with plenty of football still to be played this season.
ESPN CFB Analyst Kirk Herbstreit on Twitter:
Sam Pittman deserves SERIOUS consideration for SEC coach of the year-Let’s see how @RazorbackFB finish the year-But this team was 4-20 last 2 years & currently are 3-3 (very easily could be 4-2 Aub).
— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) November 8, 2020
More importantly they’re just COMPETING, playing PHYSICAL & playing as a UNIT!
The Hogs now face a new challenge as they prepare for their week eight matchup against the Florida Gators. Sam Pittman received a positive COVID-19 confirmation on Tuesday, which rules him out of action for this Saturday. Defensive Coordinator Barry Odom will take over responsibilities for Pittman as the Hogs practice this week. Much to Arkansas fans’ comfort, Odom has plenty of head coaching experience in the SEC and will have the Hogs ready to play. The Hogs travel to Gainesville this weekend with hopes to continue busting expectations and increase their already substantial momentum.