Arkansas Fight - Arkansas Razorbacks v UTEP Miners News & Updates - 2015Your daily source for Razorback News.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/46887/expats-fave.png2015-09-09T16:40:21-05:00http://www.arkansasfight.com/rss/stream/90296162015-09-09T16:40:21-05:002015-09-09T16:40:21-05:00Arkansas vs UTEP Final Grades
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<figcaption>Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Last statement on the UTEP game.</p> <p>On Saturday the Hogs picked back up where they left off after the Texas Bowl last year. The team came out swinging and closed the game out by scoring 48 points and pummeling poor UTEP. This was exactly the way real teams handle season openers.</p>
<h4>Quarterbacks</h4>
<p><span>Brandon Allen</span> was near perfect against UTEP. He finished the day early with 14 of 18 for 4 touchdowns and 308 yards. It was reported on the SEC Network that his performance was good for 4th best QBR in several years by an SEC quarterback at 99.4. Not too shabby, BA, have yourself a day. I think Allen's grade is pretty obvious, so I'll comment on Austin Allen. While he saw very little action - so we shouldn't jump to conclusions - but I can't help but comment on how large the talent gap seems to be between Brandon and everyone else. It's been mentioned before, but I'll say it again: <span>Brandon Allen</span> is a GOOD quarterback, and actually makes this team better. We've seen him transform over the years and it's an understatement to say that BA has come a long way. I'm a BA fan, and you should be too.</p>
<p><b>A+</b></p>
<h4>Running Backs</h4>
<p><span>Alex Collins</span> averaged over 10 yards a carry and scored a TD while racking up 127 yards. This may surprise some, but I was expecting more yards and touchdowns from the guy, but don't misconstrue that for me being unimpressed with his performance. He was great. Moving on. <span>Kody Walker</span> didn't impress on the stat sheet, but he looked like the Tasmanian Devil on some of his carries. The aggression with which he plays looks like a heavyweight fighter breaking through the defensive line. Dude is downright scary to tackle and never went down against a single defender. He's going to be big at short down yardage plays, and will be a great change of pace back to wear out the defense. Lastly, Rawleigh Williams had an admirable outing for his first ever college game. He may be raw, but he showed promise and patience. If anything he needs to pick his lanes and make his cuts quicker. All in all I'm happy with our backfield.</p>
<p><b>A-</b></p>
<h4>Receivers</h4>
<p>So much to say! <span>Keon Hatcher</span> - huge game and finally looks like the true #1 that we need and he started to become at the end of last year. Cornelius - 58 yard TD anyone? Morgan - 26 yard screen pass with some extra effort to earn the score. <span>Jeremy Sprinkle</span> - a freak that looks like Lebron James bounding down the field, only criticism is that he needs to play to his size and not be afraid to put his body against a the undersize CBs in the game. And of course, <span>Hunter Henry</span> doing his thing. Our receiving corps is going to be much improved from last year, I think we can all agree on that. What I'm most excited for though, is Dominique Reed taking the top off of the defenses. He could've easily had 2 TDs on Saturday, and I don't see him scoring less than 8 TDs this year. More importantly, he provides that added dimension that will only allow our other receivers to get more open.</p>
<p><b>A-</b></p>
<h4>Offensive Line</h4>
<p>Pass protection was tremendous considering UTEP certainly looked prepared on their defensive line. This group is huge (if you hadn't heard) and it will take the best of the SEC to get the better of them when Allen drops back to pass. I was not as happy with the run blocking, but that's not to say they didn't do a good job. The holes weren't as big as I was expecting against UTEP and more than that, the backs had trouble reaching the second level of the defense. Without Collins' huge second quarter run, the rest of the production wasn't great. Look for this unit to improve substantially against Toledo.</p>
<p><b>B</b></p>
<h4>Defensive Line</h4>
<p>Easily my favorite players currently on the team. Demarcus Hodge had the lone sack along with 2 TFLs. He spearheaded the line which absolutely stoned the opposing running backs. They looked fast, mean, and large. I'm even comfortable saying this year's line will be better than last year's. I definitely think as a whole, this unit is improved, even if they don't have the single amazing player like Flowers. In a backup role, Jeremiah Ledbetter was able to lead the team in tackles which is downright amazing. Along with the talent we saw, I'm excited to see Froholdt get his feet wet and emerge. I think this group is only going to get nastier as the year goes on and I'm excited!</p>
<p><b>A-</b></p>
<h4>Linebackers</h4>
<p><span>Josh Williams</span>, Brooks Ellis, and <span>Khalia Hackett</span> all had 7 tackles with the former two also earning a TFL. Looks like this group is going to be just fine. I think there will be a drop off in production in run support - Spaight can't be replaced - but Ellis, Hackett and Williams are fast, athletic, and can deliver. Ellis is poised to have several picks, and Williams looks really comfortable at MLB. Of course we all know how much Bielema likes Hackett, so the dude will likely ball this season too. It can't be overstated that Rob Smith has a knack for getting production out of players that may not have been highly recruited.</p>
<p><b>A-</b></p>
<h4>Secondary</h4>
<p>So, Toliver may have just earned himself a starting role this season after a freakish performance. Granted it was UTEP, Toliver looked like a pro. He swatted, then picked a short pass to start the second half, and even recorded two TFLs. His emergence completely caught me by surprise. I liked what I saw last year, but didn't expect to see him own UTEP. Ultimately, the secondary did their thing and looks to be solid as ever, holding UTEP to under 150 yards through the air</p>
<p><b>A</b></p>
<h4>Special Teams</h4>
<p><span>Cole Hedlund</span> nailed both of his field goals under 30 yards, as the #1 high school kicker of 2014 should. Kickoff coverage was average. I fear we might have a kickoff or two run back on us this year unless a change is made. When UTEP gets 30 yards on a deep kickoff than we are in trouble. All in all, it looks like Arkansas is going to have less kicker-related stress than we're used to. I'm still awoken from nightmares featuring <span>Alex Tejada</span> kicking our season away.</p>
<p><b>B+</b></p>
<h4>Final Thoughts</h4>
<p>It's really pointless reading into and deconstructing a season opener between two teams with a vast talent discrepancy. All you can really do with any validity is note any struggles. All in all, the team seems largely improved at every position. I think this is a team that can do big things this year, and after seeing the game on Saturday I'm only becoming more sure about this. The team looks honed and ready to play. What's more exciting is that certain units are going to make a big leap forward this year. Be prepared for a multidimensional Arkansas team that can compete with the best of the SEC West, and by association, the best in the country.</p>
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https://www.arkansasfight.com/2015/9/9/9297827/arkansas-utep-final-grades-razorbacks-recap-reviewMitchell Alexander2015-09-08T15:28:51-05:002015-09-08T15:28:51-05:00Tusk Talk Podcast #3: UTEP Review
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<figcaption>Wesley Hitt/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>What did we learn, or at least, what did we find interesting?</p> <p>We're back with another episode of Tusk Talk. The holiday pushed us back a little as we're going to try to post these on Mondays, but here we are with our full UTEP review.</p>
<p>The headline on the graphic below mentions "Deciphering the Postgame Coach Speak" but that's a pretty small part of the show because Bielema and his staff generally don't say much interesting stuff immediately following a game. There were a couple of noteworthy things we mention, but Bielema and the coordinators generally reserve their more interesting tidbits for the Monday press conference, which they did this week (the podcast was recorded prior to that press conference, so if we said anything that might contradict with what they said yesterday, that's why).</p>
<p>For the most part, we go in depth with the offense and the defense, what surprised us, what we learned, what stood out, and what it all might mean going forward.</p>
<p><iframe width="100%" height="400" frameborder="0" src="//www.razorbacksportsradio.com/episode_player/5899/"></iframe></p>
<p>If you would like to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes, I believe you can do that. You can also download the Razorback Sports Radio app from VSporto on iOS and Android.</p>
https://www.arkansasfight.com/2015/9/8/9279123/tusk-talk-podcast-3-arkansas-vs-utep-recap-razorbacksDoc Harper2015-09-08T14:18:03-05:002015-09-08T14:18:03-05:00The Hog Chart: UTEP Edition
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<figcaption>Wesley Hitt/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Welcome to the Hog Chart</p> <p>This season I will be putting together a "Hog Chart" showing the stats that are not in the usual ESPN, NCAA sources. Using data such as pass direction, run direction, number of pass blockers, pass rushers, broken tackles, and formation/personnel, I will track and recap each game.</p>
<p>The Razorbacks put up impressive numbers in every area imaginable against UTEP in Week 1. Lets first take a look at success rate. Success Rate puts a value on whether each play gained a set number of yards to be determined a positive play, then it is calculated as a percentage. So for example on the first line it shows all the plays while the game was close (withing 28 points third Q) that gained more than 50 % yards needed on 1st down, 70% on second and 100% on third.</p>
<table style="table-layout: fixed; font-size: 13px; font-family: arial,sans,sans-serif; border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #ccc;" border="1" dir="ltr" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<colgroup> <col width="113"> <col width="91"> </colgroup>
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<td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK(" data-sheets-value="[null,2," style="padding: 0px 3px; border: 4px solid #ccd1d5; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 100%; text-decoration: underline; color: #0563c1; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.footballoutsiders.com/info/glossary#ncaa_success_rate" class="in-cell-link">SUCCESS RATE (WHAT'S THIS?)</a></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"ARKANSAS"]' style="padding: 0px 3px; border-top-width: 4px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-color: #ccd1d5; border-right-width: 4px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-color: #ccd1d5; border-bottom-width: 4px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: #ccd1d5; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 80%; color: #555555; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle;">ARKANSAS</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 19px;">
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"All (close)"]' style="padding: 0px 3px; border-right-width: 4px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-color: #ccd1d5; border-bottom-width: 4px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: #ccd1d5; border-left-width: 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: #ccd1d5; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 80%; color: #555555; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle; background-color: #e4e9ed;">All (close)</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.00%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.655]" style="padding: 0px 3px; border-right-width: 4px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-color: #ccd1d5; border-bottom-width: 4px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: #ccd1d5; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 80%; color: #555555; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle; text-align: right; background-color: #e4e9ed;">65.50%</td>
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<tr style="height: 19px;">
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Rushing (close)"]' style="padding: 0px 3px; border-right-width: 4px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-color: #ccd1d5; border-bottom-width: 4px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: #ccd1d5; border-left-width: 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: #ccd1d5; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 80%; color: #555555; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle;">Rushing (close)</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.00%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.563]" style="padding: 0px 3px; border-right-width: 4px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-color: #ccd1d5; border-bottom-width: 4px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: #ccd1d5; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 80%; color: #555555; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle; text-align: right;">56.30%</td>
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<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Passing (close)"]' style="padding: 0px 3px; border-right-width: 4px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-color: #ccd1d5; border-bottom-width: 4px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: #ccd1d5; border-left-width: 1px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: transparent; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 80%; color: #555555; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle; background-color: #e4e9ed;">Passing (close)</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.00%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.769]" style="padding: 0px 3px; border-right-width: 4px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-color: #ccd1d5; border-bottom-width: 4px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: #ccd1d5; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 80%; color: #555555; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle; text-align: right; background-color: #e4e9ed;">76.90%</td>
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<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Standard Downs"]' style="padding: 0px 3px; border-right-width: 4px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-color: #ccd1d5; border-bottom-width: 4px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: #ccd1d5; border-left-width: 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: #ccd1d5; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 80%; color: #555555; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle;">Standard Downs</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.00%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.75]" style="padding: 0px 3px; border-right-width: 4px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-color: #ccd1d5; border-bottom-width: 4px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: #ccd1d5; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 80%; color: #555555; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle; text-align: right;">75.00%</td>
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<tr style="height: 19px;">
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Passing Downs"]' style="padding: 0px 3px; border-right-width: 4px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-color: #ccd1d5; border-bottom-width: 4px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: #ccd1d5; border-left-width: 4px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-color: #ccd1d5; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 80%; color: #555555; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle; background-color: #e4e9ed;">Passing Downs</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='[null,3,"0.00%",1]' data-sheets-value="[null,3,null,0.625]" style="padding: 0px 3px; border-right-width: 4px; border-right-style: solid; border-right-color: #ccd1d5; border-bottom-width: 4px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: #ccd1d5; font-family: arial, sans, sans-serif; font-size: 80%; color: #555555; word-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: middle; text-align: right; background-color: #e4e9ed;">62.50%</td>
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<p>Anything above 46% is considered a solid success rate and against UTEP you can see they far surpassed that number. These are not however adjusted for opponent strength but it gives a good sense of how things played out.</p>
<h4>Hogs in the Air:</h4>
<p> </p>
<p> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Allen Utep Passing" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3tdryL2NsUhLU5OWHrJMNLkkjVs=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4038654/QB-CHart-UTEP.0.png">
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<p>Dan Enos adjusted to what the UTEP defense was showing with single coverage on the outside and stacking the box. Allen was highly efficient and had one of the more impressive games of his career. He did however stay in the game later than most starters of top 25 teams against lower level competition, but his performance was stellar nonetheless. Getting some help with short passes that turned into big gains helped his stats tremendously, especially the two screens to Drew Morgan and Jared Cornelius that went for touchdowns.</p>
<p>Positives: Brandon Allen's accuracy, no drops by wide receivers. Pass protection using more backs and extra max protect keeping Allen on his feet.</p>
<h4>Hogs on the ground:</h4>
<p>The running game struggled a little early with UTEP stacking the box. But thanks to a couple of long runs by Alex Collins, they ended up with 182 yards total on 34 carries.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><i>Garbage time explanation: "Garbage-time plays and possessions have been filtered out of the calculations. The criteria for "garbage time" are as follows: a game is not within 28 points in the first quarter, 24 points in the second quarter, 21 points in the third quarter, or 16 points in the fourth quarter." <a href="http://www.footballoutsiders.com/stats/ncaaoff">from Football Outsiders.</a></i></p>
</blockquote>
<p><a href="http://www.footballoutsiders.com/stats/ncaaoff"></a>This game obviously had a large amount of "garbage time" as Arkansas went up by 24 after a UTEP turnover early in the third quarter. Numbers in parentheses include garbage time stats.</p>
<p> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="rushing splitsUTEP" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GhG0QViASZWSfflPWamXj2borEE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4039650/Rushing-Splits.0.png">
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</p>
<p>It was pretty apparent in this game against UTEP that running between the tackles and taking deep shots from play action was what OC Dan Enos wanted to accomplish. A key stat in this category was rushing frequency on first down at 57.1%. In past seasons even against the lower level teams this was up around 75%, mixing it up on first down and throwing deep will soften up that coverage opening some running lanes for the backs. In SEC play, being able to do that will make life a little easier on this offense.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Formation chart Utep" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/X3PH-Cfhj8-Q2-A2YiXuqe8CkPA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4039452/image-_2_.0.png">
</figure>
</p>
<p>We did see a few new wrinkles in formations by Dan Enos, and the question is whether this will be game plan specific or an overall trend of his offense. Losing Jonathan Williams has probably shifted this offense more toward a 1 back game plan where Kody Walker rotates in spots. In this game, Enos put a 1 back 3 wide set (1 TE) on the field over 30% of the time.</p>
<p>A couple of other notes on formations were:</p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><span>TE Jeremy Sprinkle being used in the backfield as a Fullback/HBack. Caught a couple of nice short passes that he turned into big gains.</span></li>
<li><span>Using Dominique Reed in a 2 back 2 TE 1WR set where he draws man coverage.</span></li>
</ul>
<h4>DEFENSE</h4>
<p>The Arkansas defense had some struggles, but did not send a lot of extra defenders. Robb Smith used several different packages so it was not purely base defense. There was not a lot of pressure on third downs and the front four was not able to get to the quarterback regulary but UTEP was also relying on a quick passing game to get rid of the ball in a hurry.</p>
<p><b><i>Arkansas allowed 7 broken tackles and 66 yards after contact.</i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Arkansas had 10 tackles for loss. </i></b></p>
<p><b><i>In 11 Wildcat plays with Kavika Johnson at QB UTEP gained 10 yards in the first half and -1 in the second half. </i></b></p>
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 144pt;" width="192" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0">
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<tr style="height: 36.75pt;" height="49">
<td style="height: 36.75pt; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl65" height="49"></td>
<td style="border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl68">When ARK Passed</td>
<td style="border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl68">When UTEP Passed</td>
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<tr style="height: 13.5pt;" height="18">
<td style="height: 13.5pt; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl66" height="18">% Blitz:</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl70">70%</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl70">30%</td>
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<tr style="height: 24.75pt;" height="33">
<td style="height: 24.75pt; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl66" height="33">Avg. Pass Rushers</td>
<td style="width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl67">5</td>
<td style="width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl67">4.3</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 36.75pt;" height="49">
<td style="border-bottom: 1.0pt dashed #BBBBBB; height: 61.5pt; border-top: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl69" height="82" rowspan="2">Passing (no blitz)</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl67">5-5, 68 yards, 0 sacks,</td>
<td style="width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl67">11-14 125 YDS INT 0 sacks</td>
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<tr style="height: 24.75pt;" height="33">
<td style="height: 24.75pt; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl67" height="33">13.6 YDS per att.</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl67">8.9 YDS per att.</td>
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<tr style="height: 36.75pt;" height="49">
<td style="border-bottom: 1.0pt dashed #BBBBBB; height: 61.5pt; border-top: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl69" height="82" rowspan="2">Passing (blitz)</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl67">9-15, 240 YDS, 0 sacks</td>
<td style="width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl67">4-6 15 YDS 1 Sack</td>
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<tr style="height: 24.75pt;" height="33">
<td style="height: 24.75pt; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl67" height="33">16 yds. per att.</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl67">2.5 yds. per att.</td>
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<tr style="height: 13.5pt;" height="18">
<td style="height: 13.5pt; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl66" height="18"></td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none;" width="64" class="xl67"></td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none;" width="64" class="xl67"></td>
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<tr style="height: 36.75pt;" height="49">
<td style="height: 36.75pt; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl66" height="49">Reason for INC/INT</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl67">ARK</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl67">UTEP</td>
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<tr style="height: 24.75pt;" height="33">
<td style="height: 24.75pt; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl66" height="33">Poor Throw</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl67">6</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl67">2</td>
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<tr style="height: 24.75pt;" height="33">
<td style="height: 24.75pt; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl66" height="33">Good Defense</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl67">0</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl67">2</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.5pt;" height="18">
<td style="height: 13.5pt; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl66" height="18">WR Fault</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl67">0</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl67">0</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.5pt;" height="18">
<td style="height: 13.5pt; width: 48pt;" width="64" class="xl66" height="18">QB Hit</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl67">0</td>
<td style="border-top: none; border-left: none; width: 48pt;" width="64" align="right" class="xl67">2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<h4>Play of the game: Drew Morgan Bubble Screen/ Run play combo</h4>
<p><iframe style="-webkit-backface-visibility: hidden;-webkit-transform: scale(1);" height="350" width="722" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" src="http://gfycat.com/ifr/RadiantImpressionableDwarfmongoose"></iframe></p>
<p>Really have to like seeing this kind of play for the Razorbacks. Brandon Allen, a 5th year senior, has the experience to read a defense and get his team into the right play. On this he makes the decision to throw the quick screen where it is 2 on 2. Everyone else thinks this is the standard inside zone run play to Collins and they block accordingly. The defense has to play the run and cannot react to the quick release outside. Great execution gives Morgan the chance to make a defender miss in space. Dial up more of these kind of plays in SEC play!</p>
<p>This game was solid all around with a few missed tackles by the defense. Against the style of play UTEP brought and a good running back in Aaron Jones a few of those can be overlooked. As the quality of opponent increases those mistakes will have to be cleaned up.</p>
<p>Seeing some players like Drew Morgan who have put in a lot of work and been through the ups and downs be able to make some big plays on offense was the biggest positive.</p>
<p>Football is back! Check back for the same breakdown after the Toledo game.</p>
https://www.arkansasfight.com/2015/9/8/9257931/arkansas-utep-advanced-stats-review-hog-chartjoshgoforth2015-09-07T15:58:22-05:002015-09-07T15:58:22-05:00Bielema Press Conference Tweetcap: September 7th
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<figcaption>Wesley Hitt/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The coaches had some things to say following Arkansas' victory over UTEP.</p> <p>Have we mentioned that Bielema appears to be continuing the 5 o'clock shadow look he sported last November? Stick with what works!</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema: Jojo Robinson, CJ O&#39;Grady and Blake Johnson have been reinstated</p>&mdash; Razorback Football (@RazorbackFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazorbackFB/status/640933667557150720">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>Let's try this one more time with JoJo. Whether or not he finally sees game action on Saturday is one of the more interesting storylines, I think.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema: We didn&#39;t have a sack on the day. B.A. ended up on his tail only two times I think.</p>&mdash; Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomMurphyADG/status/640933233924812800">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>WOOT</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Coach B: Toledo scored over 60 points in the bowl game, lost all of its offensive line, has two players suspended</p>&mdash; Hawgs Illustrated (@HImagazine) <a href="https://twitter.com/HImagazine/status/640933392473681920">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>That bowl game was against our friends in Jonesboro, for what it's worth. And one of those two players suspended is their top running back. They also didn't get to play a complete game this weekend because of weather, so they should still be pretty raw in the running game. Therefore, brand new offensive line + to running back out = Arkansas success, hopefully.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Alex Voelzke expected to play against Toledo after missing opener. He&#39;ll wear Garrett Uekman&#39;s jersey in honor.</p>&mdash; Eric Bolin (@ericwbolin) <a href="https://twitter.com/ericwbolin/status/640933450942312448">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>He'll be wearing #88.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;Times change&quot; regarding Zach Rogers getting a redshirt. The Frosh played a few snaps Saturday.</p>&mdash; Eric Bolin (@ericwbolin) <a href="https://twitter.com/ericwbolin/status/640934100577030144">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>The coaches said before the season started they'd hoped to redshirt Rogers, but that isn't going to happen.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema, on not redshirting Zach Rogers: Rather than have Ragnow move to center at the end of games, we decided to get Zach those reps.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640934205338157056">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>And this is why. The two choices are to redshirt Rogers or put Ragnow in a bad situation. I think they made the choice they had to make.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema: I think the happiest group on Saturday was our defensive line because they didn&#39;t have to go against our offensive line anymore</p>&mdash; Razorback Football (@RazorbackFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazorbackFB/status/640934245037273088">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Audition continues at fullback, Bielema said. Guard Josh Allen might be a regular back there on goalline.</p>&mdash; Eric Bolin (@ericwbolin) <a href="https://twitter.com/ericwbolin/status/640934971956289536">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>It's kind of amazing to me that they have struggled with the fullback position for over a year now. Ever since Kiero Small graduated, they've tried out several players at fullback, even giving a scholarship to a walk-on at one point, and there are still issues. They do have one committed in the 2016 recruiting class, however.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema says Austin Cantrell tweaked his ankle. They may try to redshirt him and get by with other players at fullback.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640935168891424768">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">BB: Jeremiah Ledbetter turned it up a notch. He may start</p>&mdash; Razorback Nation (@RazNation) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazNation/status/640935332783915008">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>Ledbetter was outstanding. Led the team in tackles and didn't even start.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema says Lane Saling won a kicking competition Thursday, prompting him to win the kickoff job over Adam McFain.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640936355644616704">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema, on Rawleigh Williams: You saw little glimpses, but he learned that this is another level. By no means were we disappointed.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640936720104452098">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema says he saw Rawleigh and his family at Deluxe Burger after the game. He was disappointed because he thought he didn&#39;t play well.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640936929643511808">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>Of course Bielema was at Deluxe Burger after the game. Good burgers and cocktails. Plus you can get a decent salad to go with your burger instead of fries for no extra charge, which I appreciate, although I'm not sure if Bielema cares about that part.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Plan is to have RWIII mixed in earlier in games as season goes. &quot;Alex doesn&#39;t want to hear this.&quot;</p>&mdash; Eric Bolin (@ericwbolin) <a href="https://twitter.com/ericwbolin/status/640937054738644992">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">BB: Tretola and Ragnow played well against UTEP. Smothers had a nice game</p>&mdash; Razorback Nation (@RazNation) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazNation/status/640937632038449152">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema, on Brian Wallace: He absolutely pancaked a guy on his first play. You could tell he was eager to get back out there.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640937756869332993">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>I bet that's going to be a fun moment in the film room. It will be on loop for him.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">D-Reed has to keep learning the playbook. If he does, by the time SEC begins, he can be a factor, Bielema said.</p>&mdash; Eric Bolin (@ericwbolin) <a href="https://twitter.com/ericwbolin/status/640938392843255809">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>Pleasepleasepleeeeaaaase be a factor, Dominque. He already basically is. They'll hit one of those deep balls soon. I expect them to try again this week.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">BB: Drew Morgan and Jared Cornelius could have a really good year, especially with defenses focusing so much on Keon Hatcher</p>&mdash; Razorback Nation (@RazNation) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazNation/status/640938735132020736">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
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<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">On LR games: I know it means a lot to them.</p>&mdash; Eric Bolin (@ericwbolin) <a href="https://twitter.com/ericwbolin/status/640938590059425792">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>"to them". I think Bielema absolutely hates it.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;Our players really enjoy it.&quot;</p>&mdash; Eric Bolin (@ericwbolin) <a href="https://twitter.com/ericwbolin/status/640938678941032448">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>I don't have any inside info on that or anything. Just a gut feeling, but you won't convince me otherwise.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema: we&#39;ll pump crowd noise this week, even though it&#39;ll be a friendly crowd in Little Rock</p>&mdash; AJ Mccord (@4029AJ) <a href="https://twitter.com/4029AJ/status/640934880700829696">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>I don't understand why that will be necessary unless they do it for all games, but okay.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema, on the crowds in Little Rock: By 3:00, they&#39;ll probably have a few things in them to get them amped up.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640938852115349504">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>"Probably" haha they're starting today</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;One that&#39;s frustrating is the logistics of getting there and getting back. Majority of team will fly back after game&quot;</p>&mdash; Eric Bolin (@ericwbolin) <a href="https://twitter.com/ericwbolin/status/640938985070555136">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>Sure. Now let's talk about how we're in talks to schedule multiple neutral site games in the same season in the future.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">BB: Froholdt hasn&#39;t played football all that long. I have a lot of trust in him. He could get better in a short amount of time.</p>&mdash; Razorback Nation (@RazNation) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazNation/status/640939270761349120">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bielema: Dre Greenlaw was in for six plays and had three tackles.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640939550492114944">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
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<p>Bielema is really big on Dre Greenlaw if you haven't already noticed.</p>
<h4>Dan Enos</h4>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Enos: I have an advantage knowing the personnel having played Toleda 5 years in a row</p>&mdash; AJ Mccord (@4029AJ) <a href="https://twitter.com/4029AJ/status/640940544584093696">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>Unfortunately, Enos was 0-5 in those five games. Hopefully he gets some revenge this week.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dan Enos: Toledo has two good defensive tackles...scheme is good.</p>&mdash; Razorback Nation (@RazNation) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazNation/status/640940595687518208">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Enos: We want to be an offense that makes the opponent defend the entire field. We want to be an offense that wins our team games.</p>&mdash; Razorback Football (@RazorbackFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazorbackFB/status/640940971870433280">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>This is how Enos defines a balanced offense, as opposed to just running a similar number of rushing and passing plays, which is something I can appreciate.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Enos: We felt we were inconsistent in run game vs UTEP, they did a great job, but also felt guys were physical &amp; played w/effort</p>&mdash; AJ Mccord (@4029AJ) <a href="https://twitter.com/4029AJ/status/640941361579954176">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Enos: I thought Saturday went well, I like being on the sidelines, will probably be some days BA wishes I wasn&#39;t down there (laughing)</p>&mdash; AJ Mccord (@4029AJ) <a href="https://twitter.com/4029AJ/status/640941641260363776">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Enos: I thought Brandon played very well. He did a great job in his communication. His posture in the pocket was excellent.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640942492125233152">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Enos: Brandon Allen did a great job with his footwork and he was very decisive and accurate</p>&mdash; Razorback Nation (@RazNation) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazNation/status/640942612577316868">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>I think anyone who wasn't happy with Allen on Saturday just really, really hates Allen. And you people are out there.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Enos: BA is hungry and focused and he&#39;s going to give this team and this state everything he&#39;s got</p>&mdash; AJ Mccord (@4029AJ) <a href="https://twitter.com/4029AJ/status/640942958775144449">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Enos, on the first go-route to Reed: The safeties came up to 8 yards before the snap and I think Brandon&#39;s heart rate went up to 300.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640944425733001218">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Enos: Lunney took me by War Memorial back in the spring. He probably mentioned the Auburn game 10 or 12 times.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640945608124030976">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>I bet. That 1995 Auburn game at War Memorial was a classic. Lunney led Arkansas to a 30-28 victory that played a big part in Arkansas winning the West that year.</p>
<h4>Robb Smith</h4>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Robb Smith: On Toledo, They&#39;re about 90 percent three WRs in the game. We&#39;ll have a Mike and Will in the game that give us the best matchup</p>&mdash; Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomMurphyADG/status/640948305359298560">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Robb Smith: Saturday was a good starting point. A big emphasis this week: We need to tackle better in space</p>&mdash; Razorback Nation (@RazNation) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazNation/status/640945945606119424">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Robb Smith: Josh Williams was very good at middle linebacker, Did a lot of good things, room to grow</p>&mdash; Hawgs Illustrated (@HImagazine) <a href="https://twitter.com/HImagazine/status/640946147951931397">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Smith: I was really encouraged w/the way we came out and started the 2nd half, Toliver INT got us off to great start</p>&mdash; AJ Mccord (@4029AJ) <a href="https://twitter.com/4029AJ/status/640946422276354048">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
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<p>The 2nd half was definitely much better than the first, or at least the 2nd quarter.</p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Smith: Those guys will be competing for reps this week. You&#39;re going to see a lot of both Ledbetter and Beanum.</p>&mdash; Andrew Hutchinson (@NWAHutch) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWAHutch/status/640946453079166976">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Smith: McKinney is one of my favorites. He does a lot of things, behind-the-scenes, as well, that help our football team</p>&mdash; Razorback Nation (@RazNation) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazNation/status/640947151816626176">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
<p><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Smith: Henre&#39; Toliver has excellent coverage skills, and he gives us a good matchup against slot receivers</p>&mdash; Razorback Nation (@RazNation) <a href="https://twitter.com/RazNation/status/640947723076632576">September 7, 2015</a></blockquote></p>
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https://www.arkansasfight.com/2015/9/7/9273281/bret-bielema-press-conference-tweetcap-september-7thDoc Harper2015-09-07T09:30:00-05:002015-09-07T09:30:00-05:00Can We Get An Amen?
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/U6v-mf1fjiCTyL97vThNg7IRekA=/0x2:7360x4909/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47107624/usa-today-8784055.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Bring on Toledo.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Saturday dawned hot and very much still summer, and I had to pinch myself for the realization to sink in: It’s Razorback football season.<span> </span>Officially.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">For the next three months, and let’s go ahead and presume it’ll be three months plus, it’ll be so. Can I get an amen?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This year’s high school cross country opening meet in Arkadelphia made Fayetteville an impossibility for us on Saturday, but all day leading up to kickoff that Christmas-like buzz was prevalent.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">And on Saturday, the Hogs filled our stockings with some goodies: a downfield passing game; a receiver who’s grown into a playmaker the likes of J-Wright and Childs; a beast of a tight end combo in Henry and Sprinkle (<a href="http://www.arkansasfight.com/2015/9/6/9269263/feel-the-rhythm-utep-bert-arkansas-razorbacks-recap" target="_blank">BVC’s description of Sprinkle in open-field mode was brilliant</a>); and an efficient QB who, yes, may have missed a couple, but made a few that would’ve challenged more than a few pros based on what I see in the NFL these days.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It wasn't perfect. But it was solid.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Indeed, the Hogs looked on their way to revisiting Nicholls State in the first half; UTEP sold out to stop the run and we easily went over the top. <span> </span>Against such a stacked box, the run game took a back seat to crisp routes, some impressive YAC and pockets as pure and untouched as virgin snow.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The D held the Miners to 13 points and 200 yards of offense: Really nothing much to complain about. I’ll go ahead and say it, though: outside of Ellis, linebacker remains a concern (Harris can stuff the run but can he cover?), and UTEP runners ran threw a few arm tackles. But the D-line is picking up where it left off in Houston and we’ve got some young studs in the secondary. The D made many more plays than it gave up. Tolliver is the next great Razorback D-back in the making, and this team may end up boasting a few of ‘em.</p>
<p>Don’t expect to see many more arm tackles in Little Rock, and the ‘backers have a game under their belts and game film to study. It’ll come. It had better. We’ll sure need the light bulb to have popped on by A&M if not before.</p>
<p>Complaints….eh, there were those missed tackles typical of an opener, a few dumb penalties and I suppose the OL didn’t always get push. But I’m not sure what our expectations should be against such a defensive strategy. We still cranked out almost 200 yards on the ground.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In terms of results, and of course, material for the coaches to use next week, Saturday was a good day.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Some random thoughts and notes, a day out from 1-0:</p>
<ul>
<li><span>It’s just one game, I readily acknowledge, and it was UTEP…but man, we upgraded at OC. I was feeling Dan’s rhythm.</span></li>
<li><span>I liked UTEP: the way the Miners played and were coached. I’ll pull for them in C-USA. That running back of theirs is a good one.</span></li>
<li><span>AC will get 1,000 this year (if only he had that break-away speed, but man, his initial burst is nice), and <span>Kody Walker</span> will imprint his name on opposing linebackers. </span></li>
<li><span>Hawkins or Cornelius, maybe both, will break one this year on a return. And Hedlund will have at least one PAT blocked.</span></li>
<li> <span>I was hoping to see Peavey get a series and c</span><span>an't wait to see JoJo...I so hope we get to see JoJo...</span> </li>
<li> <span>Were we gonna hand it off to <span>Josh Allen</span> on the botched play inside the 5, and d</span><span>id it not feel like we scored 60 or so instead of "just" 48?</span> </li>
</ul>
<div>All things considered, a good day. We looked the part. It's football season, finally, thankfully, and we're 1-0. And for that, can I get an amen?</div>
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<div>Bring on Toledo.</div>
https://www.arkansasfight.com/2015/9/7/9271137/arkansas-solid-in-season-opener-can-we-get-an-amenMark Carter2015-09-06T12:09:15-05:002015-09-06T12:09:15-05:00Feel The Rhythm: UTEP
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<figcaption>Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Your BERT-Approved Companion To The UTEP Game. </p> <p><span>Are you ready? It's that time. I am so happy to tell you that 2015's first edition of Feel The Rhythm is brought to you by Bob Marley, Tito's Vodka, and Food Network Star Eddie Jackson's Caribbean Jerk Rub, which I like to imagine that Bert endorses and applies liberally to all manner of things, including but not limited to eggs, Bloody Marys, vanilla ice cream, and the soul of opposing teams just before he devours them.</span></p>
<p><span></span><span>As season openers go, yesterday's game against UTEP went about as well as games like this can go. A dominant win. Minimal injuries. Offseason questions answered. New contributors introduced. Plenty to improve on. Nothing to absolutely freak out about. I'm not a coach, but I have to think Bert couldn't script a better Week 1 to build a season from than what he was given yesterday.</span></p>
<div>So... <span>Brandon Allen</span>. We always start with <span>Brandon Allen</span>, don't we? The UTEP game could be a case study in the psychology of Razorback fans. <span>Brandon Allen</span> went 14/18 for 306 yards and four touchdowns and "He sucks" was in the mind or on the lips of every Hog fan after each incompletion yesterday. All four of them. YOU KNOW IT'S TRUE. Don't deny it. You said it. Or thought it. I did too. Show me someone who says they didn't and I'll show you a liar.</div>
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<div>It's Pavlovian. It doesn't matter how many touchdown passes or how few interceptions he throws. He makes a mistake and we flashback to 2012 and 2013. It's incredibly unfair. But as a fan base we also can't help it. The corner route he threw to <span>Keon Hatcher</span> was perfect. Couldn't have been thrown better, and that's not an easy throw. He won't get enough credit for that throw because most of us were still apoplectic from the egregious overthrow immediately prior to that. Let's set aside all that baggage, just for a moment, and agree that Brandon Allen looked pretty damned good yesterday.</div>
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<div>And what about Allen's receiving targets? Keon Hatcher ran great routes and was rewarded with a stellar stat line. <span>Jared Cornelius</span> flashed the speed the Hogs have so desperately needed for two years. <span>Jeremy Sprinkle</span> is, at least to my eyes, a genetically altered secret government experiment gone awry that needs to be accompanied with his own creepy horror movie music when he steps onto the field. Humans aren't supposed to take eight-yard strides. Henry was Henry. Dominique Reed was, uh, fast. I feel good about who will be catching the ball this year.</div>
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<div>The rushing attack was a little stilted, but nothing to be concerned about. At least not yet. UTEP wanted to force the pass. <span>Alex Collins</span> looked like Alex Collins has always looked through the line of scrimmage, which is really, really good. Did we see the extra gear he reportedly gained in the offseason? Maybe. If you squint. I certainly couldn't rule it out. Rawleigh Williams III didn't have a great yards per carry average, and he looked a little tentative, but he's got a burst. He's going to take a pedestrian off-tackle run untouched for 70 yards at some point this season.</div>
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<div>If you're looking to complain about something, you're probably starting with the lack of push from the offensive line and the missed tackles on defense. IF you're looking for something to complain about. I'm not. The running package was as basic as basic can be. I trust Sam Pittman. He's earned my trust. The missed tackles will be addressed by Robb Smith. He's earned my trust. For now, we'll just make a note to revisit this next week and the week after.</div>
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<div>I watched the game yesterday with a room full of Hog fans and one Arkansas State / LSU fan. He didn't say much. Bert didn't show much. What's there to say? Covered the spread. No turnovers. No injuries. No special teams snafus. A textbook cupcake appetizer. If things go as planned next week, we'll have just as little to talk about next Sunday as well.</div>
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<div>I'm hitting the water. Y'all have a safe and fun Labor Day. I'll see you next week.</div>
<div>---</div>
<div><i>Trent Wooldridge will be that guy with enough bourbon. He loves the S-E-C chant and honks because he hates Texas. He puts honey on his pizza, demands aisle seats, and sees quitting golf as more of a hobby than actually playing golf. Follow @twooldridge and track his quest to transform his five-year-old into a southpaw ace in the bigs.</i></div>
https://www.arkansasfight.com/2015/9/6/9269263/feel-the-rhythm-utep-bert-arkansas-razorbacks-recapTrent Wooldridge2015-09-05T18:07:28-05:002015-09-05T18:07:28-05:00Razorbacks 48, UTEP 13: Raise The Curtain
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<figcaption>Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>1-0</p> <p>At long last, the Razorbacks kicked off against UTEP on a lovely afternoon in Fayetteville, and the game went pretty much according to script.</p>
<p>Arkansas basically did whatever it wanted to on offense for most of the game, scoring touchdowns on their first six drives and kicking a pair of field goals in the second half to beat the spread. About the only thing they struggled to do was connect on a big play with Dominique Reed, who was open on a few plays but was overthrown each time. Brandon Allen nearly hit him for a 90-yard touchdown just before halftime, but a pretty blatant pass interference penalty wasn't called, and that was that.</p>
<p>Otherwise, Allen had complete control of the offense. He was 14-for-18 for 308 yards and four touchdowns, tying a personal best. None of them were easy, short-yardage scores, either. Two of them were long passes to Keon Hatcher, and the other two were simple sideline screen passes that Drew Morgan and Jared Cornelius were able to take to the house.</p>
<p>The running game might be a little tougher to accurately describe. Alex Collins ran for 127 yards and a touchdown on just 12 carries, which is fantastic, but 70 of those yards came on a 4th down play just before halftime used to kill the clock. Take away that play and he ran for 57 yards on 11 carries, which is still good and over 5 yards per attempt, which Arkansas will take all day, but the sample size just wasn't that big.</p>
<p>Yes, until late in the game, when Arkansas was using freshman running back Rawleigh Williams III to run down the clock over pretty much the entire late 3rd and 4th quarters, Arkansas didn't resemble a ground-and-pound game much at all. They came out throwing, and again, until late, Allen was throwing much more frequently than Arkansas was running. That was something to be expected, as UTEP is known as a blitz-happy team, which left receivers open for the Hogs and Allen was able to find them. Hatcher led the way with six receptions and 106 yards, and five other players caught passes as well.</p>
<p>Arkansas' defense at times looked fantastic, as though they hadn't missed a beat from last season when the group was among the nation's best. But at times there was sloppiness. There were a few missed tackles and the Hogs were completely fooled on the first reverse UTEP ran that scored their only touchdown. Newcomer Jeremiah Ledbetter was a force on the defensive line and led the team in tackles with eight. Arkansas' three starting linebackers, Brooks Ellis, Josh Williams, and Khalia Hackett each had seven tackles.</p>
<p>Henre' Toliver had himself quite a few plays in the 3rd quarter. He tipped a pass and caught it deep in UTEP territory on the first play of the second half, setting up a 7-yard touchdown run for Collins on the next play. Tolliver also had a fantastic open-field tackle on the next third down to force UTEP's first three-and-out, which set up another easy Arkansas touchdown because the Miners screwed up the snap on the punt.</p>
<p>UTEP was pretty successful when they did pass the ball. They completed 14-of-19 passes for 146 yards. The Miners aren't known as a big passing team so Arkansas was probably focused mostly on just stopping their ability to run, but they did play well when they did.</p>
<p>Overall, hard to find too much to complain about. I think it's safe to say the game went about like most people thought it would. Toledo should provide more of a challenge next week in Little Rock. Interestingly, UTEP does play Texas Tech next week, so perhaps we'll get some indication of what to expect in Fayetteville two weeks from now.</p>
https://www.arkansasfight.com/2015/9/5/9267075/arkansas-razorbacks-48-utep-miners-13-raise-the-curtainDoc Harper2015-09-05T14:33:35-05:002015-09-05T14:33:35-05:00Arkansas Unfurls Giant "We Are Uncommon" Banner In Student Section<h3 class="link-title"><a rel="nofollow" href="https://twitter.com/doc_harper/status/640245519684513792">Arkansas Unfurls Giant "We Are Uncommon" Banner In Student&nbsp;Section</a></h3>
<div class="description"><p><p>So what do y'all think about this?</p></p></div>
https://www.arkansasfight.com/2015/9/5/9266501/arkansas-unfurls-giant-we-are-uncommon-banner-in-student-sectionDoc Harper