To update the previous blog, Arkansas has, indeed, agreed to allow three assistants go to Ole Miss to help new coach Houston Nutt recruit.

  The university had to check with the NCAA to make sure there's no rules violation going on with that sort of situation. As long as no more than nine coaches are on staff somewhere, it's permissable. Ole Miss, in essence, will have three coaches now on staff while Arkansas will have its usual number.

  Arkansas athletic director Frank Broyles said the school had no problem with three coaches going to help recruit because they want to be able to field a staff for the bowl game. But Broyles said the coaches that are going to help Nutt in Oxford will only miss two days or practice.

  It's a weird situation. But Broyles compared it to the Florida-Utah connection a couple years back, when Urban Meyer was hired and coached the Utes for the bowl game.

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 05:03 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  It seems new Ole Miss coach Houston Nutt has made a decision on some of his coaching staff.

  According to the Jackson Clarion-Ledger, Nutt said he will be bringing at least five of his Arkansas assistants to Oxford. The list includes David Lee, Mike Markuson, James Shibest, Tracy Rocker and Chris Vaughn. it tried to get confirmation on this as well, but didn't get very far.

  Nutt told me none of Arkansas' assistants will not leave the team before the bowl game. However, he said three of them will be helping him recruit for Ole Miss (Markuson, Vaughn and Shibest). He wouldn't confirm if all five of the assistants named in the story were heading to Ole Miss. But I think that's probably true.

  I spoke with James Shibest, who said he couldn't comment. Tracy Rocker told me he was still recruiting for Arkansas. And David Lee said he couldn't comment either.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 03:58 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  I'm a bad blogger. Bad, bad blogger. I just realized the last time I visited our site was minutes before we got the press release stating the university was holding a press conference on Monday night. Oops.

  It's safe to say a lot has happened since. Houston Nutt resigns. Then lands at Ole Miss. Arkansas starts searching for a coach. Names like Tommy Tuberville, Lane Kiffin and Mike Leach emerge (among many, many others). Jeff Long stays silent. Then Jeff Long speaks.

  But, no doubt, the highlight so far has been Reggie Herring, who has taken over as interim coach.

  Herring met with us today and had plenty to say about the program, the bowl game, the coaching staff, the players, etc. You name it, he covered it in the 30-minute press conference. The most intriguing exchange came when Herring was asked if he was interested in applying for the job. In short, Herring said he's not throwing his name in the hat. Then he proceeded to throw his name in the hat with gems like these:

  "If they are going to start interviewing coordinators around the country I don't think there is a better coordinator around the country that knows this school, knows the fans, can bring these people together, can hire an incredible offensive coordinator that would turn this school upside down as far as the passing game."

  "I've seen a lot of coordinators names in there and it's kind of making me wonder. At the end of the day, Jeff Long knows where I am. He knows where my office is. I'll say it publicly: If he's going to start interviewing coordinators, nobody can touch me given the opportunity."

  "That's my pitch and I'm done. After that, as far as me being a candidate, I am not until the AD says I'd like to talk to you. Ain't no way I'm going to be used. I'm not a popsicle. I don't come in three different flavors."

  We hear you Reggie! You're not going to say you're interested if Arkansas is looking for someone with head coaching experience. And you should be interviewed if they're interested in a coordinator. But we really, really like the way you put it!

 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 10:53 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

BREAKING NEWS: Arkansas will announce today that its next football coach is ... just kidding.

While we all wait for the two words that will actually complete that sentence, let's talk some hoops.

The long-awaited return of former Razorback assistant Mike Anderson occurs tonight. His 5-1 Missouri Tigers take on 4-1 Arkansas at 7 p.m. in Bud Walton Arena (ARSN, ESPN Full Court, ESPN360.com). Earlier today in Springdale, Anderson joined his mentor, former Arkansas coach Nolan Richardson, and several ex-Hog players at a gathering of the Northwest Arkansas Tip-Off Club.

They reminisced about old times and talked about Missouri, which Anderson has on the verge of competing in the Big 12 Conference. Anderson's Tigers, in his first season in Columbia, Mo., blasted the Razorbacks by more than 20 points last season, overwhelming Arkansas with their defensive intensity.

Missouri will try to do the same tonight. How Arkansas deals with the pressure will determine whether the Razorbacks nab victory No. 5 this season in its most-profile nonconference home game this season.

Last Saturday provided an encouraging sign for John Pelphrey's bunch. The Razorbacks committed just 10 turnovers — a season low — in their 22-point win over Delaware State. Plus, Darian Townes continued his stellar offensive play.

Arkansas has the advantage up front. Missouri has the advantage in the backcourt. Should be interesting, especially with a packed Bud Walton Arena rockin' in Anderson's return to Fayetteville.

A prediction for tonight: Lots of turnovers, lots of points and lots of emotion.

— Ryan Malashock 

Posted by Ryan Malashock at 04:04 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  The coaching carousel is, no doubt, in full swing. So is the Houston Nutt watch. As in, will Nutt stay or will he go? And if he goes, where is he going?

  Sorry I didn't blog yesterday. Got tied up writing stories. But in case you missed it, Nutt said he has his "dream job" at Arkansas. He also said Chancellor John White and athletic director Frank Broyles want him to stay at Arkansas. He's had discussions with White and intends to have more this week. That also will include incoming athletic director Jeff Long. He's hoping something will be decided this week regarding his future.

  Until then, let's try to keep track of the coaches: Ole Miss and Baylor are looking for coaches and Nutt's name has been mentioned for both jobs. Texas A&M fired and hired a coach in less than three days. Georgia Tech and Duke dumped its coaches this morning. So did Southern Miss.

  It's hard to keep up with all the turnover. But if you want a complete list, click this link. It's sure this list will be growing soon.

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 12:54 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Maybe it's all the Thanksgiving turkey. Maybe it's the hangover from yesterday's Arkansas-LSU football game. Maybe it's the fact the Razorbacks have been sloppy and inconsistent once again.

  Whatever it is, BWA has been pretty quiet in the first half this afternoon. The biggest cheer just came a moment ago with the Razorbacks in the locker room. The mascot, Boss Hog, just made a 3-pointer from his snout.

  Arkansas leads Delaware State 43-34 at halftime. But the Razorbacks needed an 11-3 run to close the half to get some breathing room. There is good news: The Hogs are 5 of 8 from behind the 3-point line. They've also limited their turnovers (6). Those two areas have been killing Arkansas so far this season.

  Roy Bright leads Delaware State with 14 points. Darian Townes has 11 for the Razorbacks.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 03:05 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  It's amazing what a company jet can do. I was in Baton Rouge, La., last night for the three-overtime thriller against LSU. Now I'm sitting in Bud Walton Arena, filling in for basketball beat writer Ryan Malashock for today's Arkansas-Delaware St. game that is set to tip off in roughly an hour.

  Even though I'm here at hoops, football talk won't go away for two reasons: First, it was one of the most memorable wins in Arkansas history. Second, coach Houston Nutt's tenure could be coming to an end soon.

  The school still has not announced anything concerning Nutt, but his name has already starting popping up for job openings across the country (nice work Jimmy Sexton). Baylor is reportedly interested in Nutt, but another possbility entered the mix this morning when Ole Miss announced it has fired Ed Orgeron.

  Here's a blog entry or short story (I can't tell which) in the Mobile Press Register indicating that Nutt is an early candidate for the Ole Miss job. We'll let you know if we hear more as the days go on.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 01:16 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  I probably won't be blogging much the rest of the game. The fourth quarter is underway and my fingers and toes are numb. So I'm going to try to get them warmed up to begin working on sidebars.

  But, LSU and Arkansas are tied 21-21. The Razorbacks just had to punt the ball away to the Tigers. But LSU couldn't move the ball either. So Arkansas will get the ball back in pretty good shape with 10 minutes left.

  No doubt, an interesting end is imminent.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 04:48 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  LSU's offense is starting to get in a groove. The Tigers just moved 75 yards on 10 plays and tied the game on quarterback Matt Flynn's 7-yard touchdown pass to receiver Demetrius Byrd.

  The touchdown tied the game at 21-21 and has brought Tiger Stadium to life.

  What looked like a defensive struggle in the first half is now turning into a shootout. Does Arkansas have enough ammo to keep pace? We'll find out.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 04:24 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Arkansas fullback Peyton Hillis just did his best Darren McFadden impersonation on the last drive, splitting through a hole and racing 65 yards for a touchdown.

  The touchdown answered LSU's scoring drive. The Tigers tied the game at 14-14 thanks to a 12-yard touchdown run by Jacob Hester and a 2-point conversion. But Arkansas now leads 21-14.

  No doubt, LSU's sideline was pretty upset after giving up another long run. Arkansas' sideline? Jubilation, of course. But LSU has been know for its late-game dramatics this year. Will this be another one?
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 04:14 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  At this point, Darren McFadden's three fumbles are all by forgotten.

  The junior just broke off a 73-yard touchdown run on Arkansas' first drive of the second half, giving the Razorbacks a 14-6 lead. McFadden was under center for the play, faked a handoff to Felix Jones, then broke a tackle and broke free. Quarterback Casey Dick was on the field at WR and earns an assistant on the play, getting a big block on an LSU defender to make sure McFadden got in the end zone.

  It looks like the touchdown woke LSU up. The Tigers have quickly moved to Arkansas' red zone and are threatening. There's a reason LSU is the nation's top-ranked team.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 03:55 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Arkansas leads 7-6 at halftime here in Baton Rouge. Some quick stats:

  Total offense: Arkansas 144 yards, LSU 95

  Rushing: Arkansas 111, LSU 45

  Passing: Arkansas 33, LSU 50

  Darren McFadden leads Arkansas with 72 rushing yards and a touchdown. Felix Jones has 30. Quarterback Casey Dick is 4 of 7 for 28 yards in the first half. LSU quarterback Matt Flynn is 7 of 22 for 50 yards. Jacob Hester has rushed for 37 yards.

  But maybe the most important stat of all: LSU trails at halftime for the fourth time this year. The Tigers have won the other three against Florida, Auburn and Alabama

 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 03:44 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Actually, McFadden has helped the Razorbacks take the lead now.

  The junior just found a crease in LSU's defense and sprinted 16 yards for a touchdown to cap an impressive Arkansas drive. The Razorbacks went 97 yards on 9 plays in 3:23. Felix Jones had the biggest play on the drive, running for 31 yards on third down. Arkansas was 2 for 2 on third down on the drive.

  So, despite the fumbles and the poor start on offense, Arkansas leads 7-6.

  And, in an unrelated update, it's cold up here in the open air press box. Really cold.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 02:52 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Darren McFadden has moved past former Auburn great Bo Jackson for third on the SEC's career rushing list.

  Of course, McFadden moved past Jackson in typical fashion today: On a play in which he fumbled. Luckily for McFadden, the ball bounced right back in his arms. He has three fumbles today and has lost one.

  But, McFadden has helped move Arkansas into scoring position in the second quarter.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 02:49 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  LSU leads 6-0 after the first quarter thanks to two Colt David field goals.

  The stat of the quarter is simple: LSU has run 24 plays, Arkansas has 12. In fact, the Razorbacks didn't get a first down until a moment ago when London Crawford gained five yards on an end around. Arkansas went three-plays-and-out on its first three possessions, while LSU put together seven- and 11-play scoring drive.

  Obviously, the Razorbacks must find a way to move the ball against LSU's defense or it's going to be a long, long day for the Arkansas sideline.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 02:28 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Darren McFadden's first impression to Heisman voters tuning in today was not good.

  The running back fumbled the ball on the opening kickoff and it was recovered by LSU. The Tigers didn't get in the end zone, but settled for a 32-yard field goal to take a 3-0 lead. For LSU, it was their SEC-leading 31st forced turnover this season. For Arkansas, it was the worst imaginable start in a hostile place.

  Uh. McFadden just fumbled again on the ensuing kickoff. He recovered it this time.

 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 01:55 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  LSU just finished honoring its senior class here on Senior Day and have taken the field.

  Couple of notes:

   • Felix Jones looks like he'll be on the field for the opening kickoff. So that's good news for Arkansas.

  • There are a couple of lineup changes. Kevin Woods will start at free safety instead of Rashaad Johnson. Chris Wade will start at defensive end instead of Malcolm Sheppard, who may not play today because of an injury.

  • Arkansas is 3-11 against top-ranked teams. They're 0-2 under Houston Nutt
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 01:45 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Arkansas fans who were convinced Butch Davis was ready to come home to Arkansas and replace coach Houston Nutt can't be happy about this. Word out of Chapel Hill is that Davis will receive a contract extension from North Carolina, wiping out murmurings that he would be interested in coaching the Razorbacks.

  Click this link to a story in The Daily Tarheel.

  Davis receives the extension despite North Carolina's 3-8 record in his first season on the sideline. No doubt, the ongoing discussion about Arkansas and Davis had a big hand in this announcement.

  So, if Nutt, indeed, does not return to the Razorbacks next season, where does Arkansas turn?
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 10:32 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Haven't been able to blog much this week. The short week hasn't helped. But wanted to toss a quick injury update up here before taking a much-needed day off for Thanksgiving. Here is what will appear in the paper tomorrow concerning the injured Razorbacks:  

Arkansas running back Felix Jones practiced for the third straight day and coach Houston Nutt said he will be available for Saturday’s game at No. 1 LSU. In fact, Nutt said he believes Jones is close to 100 percent after sustaining a deep thigh bruise against Tennessee two weeks ago.

“Felix is real close,” Nutt said. “Hopefully, Friday at 1:41 p.m., he’ll be Felix Jones.”

Nutt also said cornerback Jerell Norton practiced for the second straight day after missing Monday’s workout with a bruised knee. Nutt said the Hogs still must decide if Norton will return punts. If not, they’ll turn to Reggie Fish or Peyton Hillis.

“We’ll look at that in pregame and we’ll probably go with Jerell if everything is like we think it’s going to be,” Nutt said. “If not, we have Reggie and we have Peyton.”

Defensive end Malcolm Sheppard remains questionable because of an ankle injury. Nutt said he is “further away” than Norton. Senior Chris Wade will likely start in Sheppard’s place if the sophomore can’t play Friday.

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 10:25 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Historically, Arkansas has had little success when it squares off against the nation’s top team. The Razorbacks are 3-11 all-time and haven’t toppled a team from the top of the polls since the 42-11 win against Texas in 1981.

  Coach Houston Nutt has had his own struggles. He’s 0-2 against No. 1. Both of them were unforgettable losses. Who can forget the heart-breaking 28-24 loss to Tennessee in Knoxville in 1998? As much as the Razorbacks would like, they won’t forget the embarrassing, 70-17 loss at Southern California in 2005.

  But offensive lineman Robert Felton, who was part of the 2005 team, said Arkansas relishes its next chance to pull an upset on Friday against No. 1 LSU.

  “They’re a great team,” Felton said. “If you can’t get pumped up about playing a team like that, then you shouldn’t be out here.”

  The feeling spreads to the staff, too. Offensive coordinator David Lee said he’s looking forward to matching wits against No. 1 LSU because, as far as Lee can remember, he’s never coached against a top-ranked team.

  So naturally, Lee was asked what he and the Razorbacks have done differently to prepare for the Tigers.

  “Nothing,” Lee said. “I think that’s the key. You don’t do anything different. You don’t make a big deal of it playing No. 1. It messes everything you. You lose your focus on what wins and that’s one play at a time and execution.”

  Arkansas’ preparation for the nation’s best hasn’t changed. But will the results?

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 04:23 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Les Miles said there’s a postgame tradition at LSU in which a chain link is pieced together in the building after each victory. Players who feel like they made important contributions, by their own standards, sign a link. Starters, backups, walk-ons, it doesn’t matter. Players sign. The chain grows. You get the picture.

  Well, Miles said there were plenty of defensive players that turned in important contributions during LSU’s 41-24 win at Ole Miss. But none of them — Glenn Dorsey, Ali Highsmith, Craig Steltz, or Chevis Jackson — signed up after the game. It was because the Tigers gave up a season-high 466 yards.

  “I think they’re a little sore right now,” Miles said Monday afternoon. “I think they’re mad. I think they want to play better.”

  That’s not exactly good news for Arkansas, which plays top-ranked LSU in Tiger Stadium on Friday. LSU may be second in the nation in total defense (257.6 yards a game) and ninth in the country in scoring defense (17.4), but didn’t live up to its own lofty standards against the Rebels.

  Actually, LSU has struggled — again, by its own standards — in most SEC games this season. Kentucky, Alabama, Auburn and Florida have all had success against a defense regarded as the best in the nation. The Tigers have surrendered 29.8 points and 341 yards in their past five SEC games.

  Arkansas had its own success in last season’s game, putting together 360 yards in the 31-26 loss. That included 298 rushing. Darren McFadden did most of the damage in his Heisman Trophy push, rushing for 182 yards and 2 touchdowns.

  Motivation? The Tigers said there will be plenty Friday.

  “We’re a little disappointed,” said Steltz, who was named SEC Defensive Player of the Week after intercepting two passes against the Rebels. “There were mistakes. I still don’t think we played our best game.”

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 10:29 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Arkansas isn't the only place where job talk will dominate the week. But you know that.

  LSU coach Les Miles has been bombarded by the question for weeks, but it is particularly heated now because of Lloyd Carr's retirement at Michigan. Miles wasn't available for his usual Sunday teleconference with the media on Sunday (was it to avoid Michigan questions?). Either way, Miles did address the media Monday.

  In short, he said he won't be thinking about any other jobs this week.

  "I'm not talking jobs, don’t look for jobs, don’t want jobs," Miles said. "I've got a great job. I love this place. It's a place that I'm very comfortable. My family is very comfortable. It's not to suppose that Michigan will call. They've not called. It's unfair to Michigan to say that they should. It's unfair to me and my team.

  "I promise you this: What I’m doing is what you should do. Let it rest. I'm playing football for LSU. I’m preparing for Arkansas. I’m preparing for the next game and the next game after that. I love this team.”

  Well, that answers that. Riiight.

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 03:04 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  This is no knock on Arkansas quarterback Casey Dick. I promise. But how many of you thought you'd ever see this news from the SEC office?

  The Razorbacks' quarterback was named SEC offensive player of the week after completing 14 of 17 passes for 199 yards and a career-high four touchdowns against Mississippi State. The four touchdown passes equaled a school single-game record. The 82.4 completion percentage was third-best on the school's list. In short, it was one of the best days of Dick's career and the SEC recognized that this morning.

  In addition, right tackle Nate Garner was named SEC offensive lineman of the week. He graded out at 95 percent and had 18 knockdown blocks, which was a team-high and was his career-high.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 12:57 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Houston Nutt talk will continue to run rampant this week. Is the LSU game in Baton Rouge, La., going to be his last on the Arkansas sideline? Will he be fired at the end of the season? Will he leave on his own?

  Those answers will certainly come in time. Probably in less than a week. But at the very least, Nutt's future with the Razorbacks doesn't look good. His name is also being linked in media reports to the Baylor job, which officially opened yesterday after the Bears fired coach Guy Morriss.

  The most popular name associated with the Baylor job is alum Mike Singletary, who is an assistant coach with the San Francisco 49ers. But the Dallas Morning News writes that Singletary isn't a slam dunk, yet, tossing out Nutt's name as a possibility because of his head coaching experience. In addition, the Ft. Worth Star-Telegram said Nutt is a possible candidate as well.

  How will it all play out? Stay tuned to find out.

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 11:21 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Michelle and I wrapped up our tour of San Juan with another stop to the old part of the city early today. We checked out El Morro, the fort that was built several centuries ago to protect the city from invading forces by sea. We dined on burgers at El Patio de Sam and ate ice cream at a local dive — Ben and Jerry's (OK, not that local, obviously).

  Now, I'm sitting at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico, awaiting the start of Arkansas' third-place game with Virginia Commonwealth. This is not a matchup John Pelphrey wanted. Arkasnas' coach is great friends with VCU coach Anthony Grant.

  They coached together as assistants under Billy Donovan at Marshall and Florida and still keep in touch. Their families are close and both commented Friday that they didn't particularly want to coach against one another.

  Too bad.

  The Razorbacks desperately need a victory today. Actually they desperately need the type of game that can boost their confidence back up. They combined for 58 turnovers in their first two games here, and they are facing a Rams team that's a carbon copy of themselves. The Rams love to press.

  Not good news for the likes of Gary Ervin, Patrick Beverley, Stefan Welsh, Sonny Weems and Marcus Britt — the Arkansas guards in charge of keeping turnovers to a minimum.

  Tip-off is in 40 minutes on ESPN2. 

Posted by Ryan Malashock at 03:18 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Arkansas' basketball team had no fun today. The Razorbacks didn't jet ski. They didn't swim. They didn't parasail, and they didn't socialize with the locals.

  They practiced. Their off day at the Puerto Rico Tip-Off was spent working out, mainly as punishment for their less-than-stellar outings here in the Caribbean. Arkansas committed 26 turnovers in a Thursday victory and 32 miscues — tying a school record — in a Friday loss.

  So coach John Pelphrey scrapped any social plans.

  Michelle and I did not. We headed 45 minutes to the southeast to El Yunque Rainforest, one of the main attractions on this island. We hiked for about three hours through the rainforest, climbing through mountains and up to several spots where we could see for miles. It was, simply put, absolutely beautiful.

  As for the Razorbacks, they face the worst possible opponent tomorrow in the third-place game of the tournament — Virginia Commonwealth. The Rams, led by Pelphrey friend and former coaching colleague Anthony Grant love to press, love to harrass.

  Could spell trouble for the turnover-happy Hogs.

RYAN MALASHOCK 

Posted by Chip Souza at 06:18 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Arkansas' basketball team had no fun today. The Razorbacks didn't jet ski. They didn't swim. They didn't parasail, and they didn't socialize with the locals.

They practiced. Their off day at the Puerto Rico Tip-Off was spent working out, mainly as punishment for their less-than-stellar outings here in the Caribbean. Arkansas committed 26 turnovers in a Thursday victory and 32 miscues — tying a school record — in a Friday loss.

So coach John Pelphrey scrapped any social plans.

Michelle and I did not. We headed 45 minutes to the southeast to El Yunque Rainforest, one of the main attractions on this island. We hiked for about three hours through the rainforest, climbing through mountains and up to several spots where we could see for miles. It was, simply put, absolutely beautiful.

As for the Razorbacks, they face the worst possible opponent tomorrow in the third-place game of the tournament — Virginia Commonwealth. The Rams, led by Pelphrey friend and former coaching colleague Anthony Grant love to press, love to harrass.

Could spell trouble for the turnover-happy Hogs. 

— Ryan Malashock 

Posted by Ryan Malashock at 04:51 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Felix Jones might not be full strength, but the Razorbacks did find a formation that loosened up Mississippi State's defense: Darren McFadden at QB and Peyton Hillis and Michael Smith in the backfield.

  Hillis carried twice for 24 yards and McFadden followed it with a 17-yard gain out of the formation. Two players later, another unique look — Hillis in the slot and Farod Jackson coming out of the backfield — resulted in a 30-yard touchdown pass from Casey Dick to Jackson.

  It was the first touchdown of Jackson's career. It gives Arkansas a 10-7 lead.

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 01:54 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Here's an interesting stat for you:

  Mississippi State quarterback Wesley Caroll doubled up Arkansas running back Darren McFadden in the first quarter. Caroll ran for 22 yards on three carries. McFadden had 11 yards on six carries.

  Overall, MSU outgained the Hogs 108-46 in the first quarter and lead 7-3 early in the secon.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 01:39 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Arkansas said it was going to have to prepare for a physical game against Mississippi State.

  I guess the Razorbacks meant it.

  The Hogs' defense has been playing with five down linemen (three defensive tackles). The offense followed the same premise on its first possession, using two tight ends to open the game.

  Is it working? Well...The Hogs did force a fumble, but MSU marched 80 yards on 15 plays to score the go-ahead touchdown on its second possession. Even more impressive, the Bulldogs were 3 of 4 on the third down and 1 of 1 on fourth down during the drive.

  Arkansas' offense went three-and-out on its first possession. It's 7-0 MSU with four minutes left in the 1st.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 01:26 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  We're going to go ahead and dub today's home finale the "will he stay or will he go" bowl.

  Yes, reports are running rampant that Houston Nutt will not be back next year. No, we can't find anyone that can verify that report. And we mean no one. You can read about it here in Alex Abrams' story this morning.

  The next question is this: How much — if any — will the heated Nutt talk effect the Razorbacks against Mississippi State today? Maybe it does, maybe it doesn't. We'll see. But as the story says, Nutt's future was definitely on players' minds last night.

  If there's any good news for Arkansas in pre-game it's this: Running back Felix Jones is dressed out and going through warmups. He is running with a limp, though. We don't know how much he'll play, if any, but any could help Darren McFadden and the Hogs. In addition, receiver London Crawford is dressed out and may play after missing three straight games because of a knee injury

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 12:31 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

But I’m back now, live on press row just before the Razorbacks tip off their semifinal contest in the Puerto Rico Tip-Off against Providence.

First, though, historic Old San Juan was on the slate for Michelle and I on Friday. Pictured here is a statue and fountain that is located on the extreme west tip of San Juan, in the extreme southwest corner of Old San Juan.

After lunch at Cafe la Princessa, we passed this statue, which marked the beginning of the Paseo del Morro Trail.

It’s named “Racies” and has American and Puerto Rican flags next to one another. It was unveiled May 30, 1992, in commemoration of the fifth centennial of the discovery of the Americas, and it depicts the roots of  Puerto Rican culture.

We then turned north and walked along the trail. To our left was the Atlantic Ocean, the waters leading to San Juan’s largest port. To our right was the port’s protection — a long, massive fort with walls as high as at least 100 feet.

In the 1600s, Spain used the fort to protect San Juan against invaders from England, France and Holland.

Tomorrow, on an off day for the Puerto Rico Tip-Off, we head to El Yunque Rainforest. How much time we have to climb through the rainforest depends on Arkansas’ result today.

Providence, coached by Tim Welsh, figures to challenge the Hogs far more than College of Charleston did. The Friars sleepwalked through much of their first-round win over Temple, rallying from 10 points down with 6 minutes, 2 seconds left.

If Arkansas wins today, the Razorbacks will take on Miami (Fla.), which held off a strong rally from Virginia Commonwealth to win 69-63. Jack McClinton, the Hurricanes’ point guard, scored 23 points and came up with big shot after big shot in the second half as Miami nearly blew a 15-point halftime lead.

First and foremost on my mind, coach John Pelphrey’s mind and surely every Razorback’s mind is this: Can Arkansas take care of the basketball?

We shall see. Tip off in a few minutes on ESPNU (Cox Ch. 120).

— Ryan Malashock 

Posted by Ryan Malashock at 04:21 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Alex got a chance to speak with Houston Nutt and running backs coach Tim Horton a little while ago regarding Felix Jones' thigh bruise. Basically it's going to be a game-time decision. But here is what will be in the newspaper tomorrow morning:

  Running back Felix Jones dressed out Thursday for the first time this week, but he was limited because of a deep thigh bruise. 

  Jones injured his right thigh in the opening minutes of last Saturday’s 34-13 loss at No. 19 Tennessee. He has been getting treatment this week in the hopes of being ready to face Mississippi State at 1 p.m. Saturday in Little Rock’s War Memorial Stadium.

  “He was very limited (in practice), and I would still say his status is doubtful,” Arkansas running backs coach Tim Horton said. “He’s just not ready right now, but we still have 70 hours (until kickoff) so we’ll keep our figures crossed.”

  Arkansas coach Houston Nutt didn’t sound too optimistic about Jones, but he’s still holding out hope that the junior might be ready by Saturday.

  “We’ll know more Saturday. Again, because of the type of injury it is, it’s very difficult, very hard to get back to full-speed that quick,” Nutt said. “But boy, he’s giving a lot of effort.”

  If Jones can’t play, sophomore Michael Smith is expected to pick up much of the slack at running back.

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 06:24 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  Arkansas forced 11 turnovers in wins against Ole Miss and Florida International. That included nine interceptions. But after climbing to No. 11 in the nation in forced turnovers (22), the Razorbacks have fallen to No. 35 in two weeks. That includes a drop from sixth to 18th in interceptions (15).

  “I don’t know exactly what’s happening,” said free safety Kevin Woods, who didn’t play at Tennessee because of a shoulder injury. “It’s just ... I don’t know. It just comes when it comes and goes when it goes. We just go with the good and the bad. We just try to get better each week.”

  But taking the ball away from Mississippi State won’t be easy Saturday.

  The Bulldogs are winning largely because of their ability to make sound decisions. Mississippi State committed seven turnovers in its opener against LSU, but has four in five other SEC games. Freshman quarterback Wesley Carroll has thrown only one interception in 158 pass attempts. Impressive.

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 06:18 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — The drive from the Caribe Hilton to the Coliseo de Puerto Rico should take about eight minutes, should being the most important word in that sentence. Let's just say that I saw far more of San Juan than I bargained for in the past hour. I got into my rental car, made four wrong turns and ended up in near-meltdown mode amidst San Juan rush-hour traffic.

Luckily, a lovely woman named Jessica who works for the arena directed me the right way over the phone.

So, phew, I'm here.

Sitting in the press room, three flat-screen TVs are playing the ESPNU broadcast of the game being contested out on the court. Temple leads Providence 62-59 with just under four minutes left, by the way. The winner advances to play the winner of Arkansas' game at 4 p.m. against College of Charleston.

Earlier, Virginia Commonwealth and Miami (Fla.) earned their way into the semifinals.

The Rams edged Houston 73-72, getting 20 points from Jamal Shuler, 18 from Michael Anderson and 11 from T.J. Gwynn. The Hurricanes drilled Marist 85-61, building a lead as high as 34 points and having six players with at least nine points.

A few things to look for as you flip on your TV sets:

• Will College of Charleston actually try to run with the Razorbacks? Coach Bobby Cremins alluded earlier this week that the Cougars would.

• Can Arkansas keep up the intensity, consistently? My tournament preview in today's edition of The Morning News addressed the Razorbacks' commitment to playing hard, all the time. We'll see ...

• And finally, can the Razorbacks force the Cougars' backcourt, the strength of an inexperienced team, into turnovers?

Enjoy the game. I'll blog later with post-game comments, thoughts and quotes. Check out The Morning News for full coverage of the tournament all week. And, if I don't get lost, I'll try to show you some more sights of San Juan.

Posted by Ryan Malashock at 03:13 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  If Arkansas running back Felix Jones doesn’t play against Mississippi State on Saturday, expect a big sigh of relief from the Bulldogs’ sideline. But it won’t be for just one reason.

  Sure, the Razorbacks’ offense will lose some punch without Jones’ big-play ability. After all, he has 1,032 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns as a compliment to Darren McFadden.

  But don’t forget Jones’ value on special teams, where he was named an All-American last season. The junior leads the SEC and is sixth in the nation in kickoff returns, averaging 32.7 yards a pop. He has two touchdowns this season and four in his career, one of which came on a 100-yarder against Mississippi State in the Razorbacks’ 44-10 win in 2005.

  Jones has been part of Arkansas teams that have beaten Mississippi State and coach Sylvester Croom with special teams. In addition to Jones’ return in 2005, former Arkansas linebacker Pierre Brown returned a blocked field goal 76 yards for a score in a 24-21 win in Starkville. McFadden, of course, bolstered his Heisman Trophy resume with a 92-yard kickoff return in the Hogs’ 28-14 win last season.

  So Croom, of course, had a little to say about the importance of special teams play Monday: “Really, if that happens against anybody you’re probably going to lose the game. But it happened in all three of our meetings. We cannot allow that to happen this year.”

  The good news for Croom is that those chances increase dramatically if Jones is stuck on the sideline. Because there aren’t many other Razorbacks who have turned in big plays on special teams this season.

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 07:57 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Check out that view! The Caribe Hilton, the media hotel for this week's Puerto Rico Tip-Off, was nice enough to give my fianceé, Michelle, and I the hook-up on a room with a wonderful vista.

As the week goes along, we'll try to snap a photo for you of a new scenic site in balmy San Juan.

For now, though, let's get back to hoops. Arkansas opens play today at 4 p.m. in the Coliseo de Puerto Rico against College of Charleston, and longtime coach Bobby Cremins.

The Razorbacks worked out late this morning at the arena, stopped off at a local mall for lunch and then practiced at a local school this afternoon. They attended a hospitality event tonight before retreating to the Condado Plaza Hotel and Casino for the evening.

Freshman Levan Patsatsia, a reserve guard, was unable to practice today after suffering a sprained ankle during one of Sunday's practices. He is doubtful for Thursday's game, the only Hog bothered by injury issues.

ESPNU (Cox Ch. 120) will televise the Hogs' pursuit of an early-season tournament title for the second straight season — last season, Arkansas won the Old Spice Classic.

I'll have updates throughout the week — before, during and after games.

RYAN

 

Posted by Ryan Malashock at 05:58 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  There's a few things worth mentioning:

  • Felix Jones was in a jersey yesterday, but is wearing a sweatsuit today. He's not practicing, not running, not doing anything but watching. That's probably not a good sign for the Hogs. I'll let you know if there is more.

  • Receiver Robert Johnson is practicing. Johnson, of course, didn't work out Tuesday. London Crawford, who has missed the past three games with a knee injury, was on the field. Crawford said he wasn't feeling great on the way out to the field, but is running routes and catching passes today.

  • Left tackle Jose Valdez is not practicing. That's not a new development, either. Robert Felton continues to work at left tackle, while DeMarcus Love is getting the work at right guard.

  • ESPN's own Chris Mortensen is out there, too. He had plenty of NFL folks to chat with. There are plenty of scouts and even a couple of GM's that are taking in the workout.

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 04:59 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  ...distraction. In what will likely be a topic covered over and over and over again until something happens (or doesn't happen), North Carolina coach Butch Davis was once again asked about the Arkansas job and if the murmorings that he could replace Houston Nutt are bothering him.

  Basically, he told the Raleigh News & Observer, no. They're not.

  Butch says: "QUIT ASKING!!!"
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 11:44 AM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  If Arkansas quarterback Casey Dick makes a mistake against Mississippi State on Saturday, chances are, it’ll turn into a touchdown for the Bulldogs. Mississippi State’s offense may be at the bottom of the league, but it’s defense has picked up some of the scoring slack thanks to interception returns for touchdowns.

  The Bulldogs have returned five picks — that’s right, five — for touchdowns in 10 games. The latest was their biggest.

  With Mississippi State trailing Alabama 9-3 last Saturday, cornerback Anthony Johnson snagged Alabama quarterback John Parker Wilson’s pass in the end zone and returned it 100 yards for a score on the last play of the first half. The “pick six” changed the shape of a game the Bulldogs won 17-12.

  It’s no surprise Mississippi State’s five interception returns for touchdowns leads the nation. Hawaii and Wake Forest also have five returns for scores. But it’s not a school record. The Bulldogs returned six interceptions for touchdowns in 1994.

  Will they get No. 6 against Arkansas on Saturday? The Razorbacks certainly hope not, especially after feeling the sting of an interception return last Saturday. Tennessee linebacker Jerod Mayo stepped in front of a Nathan Emert pass and returned it for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Vols’ 34-13 win.

  “I just pressed it to my quarterbacks,” Arkansas offensive coordinator David Lee said. “We’ve got to be precise and that we read the coverage exactly right and we’ve got to throw on time. Or we could be in trouble, too.”

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 08:23 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  There are a few items worth mentioning from the early part of practice:

   • Felix Jones is not practice. That's probably not be a surprise. The Razorbacks also are preparing for life without him, getting backups Michael Smith and Brandon Barnett more reps in the portion of practice that was open to the media.

  • There has been a shift on the offensive line. Robert Felton has moved from right guard to left tackle to replace Jose Valdez, who isn't practicing because of an ankle injury. DeMarcus Love has moved into the starting group (at least today) at right guard.

  • Robert Johnson isn't practicing, either. But then again, I can't really remember the last time Robert Johnson did practice. The plan for him, obviously, is just to be ready on game day.
 

Posted by Robbie Neiswanger at 05:12 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

  So the Doak Walker Award semifinalists have been announced and Arkansas' Darren McFadden and Felix Jones are among the top 10. Really? OK, so it doesn't come as a surprise. But I wonder how often two running backs from the same team have been Doak Walker Award semifinalists.

  Hmmmm...

  The official site hasn't announced it yet. Neither has Arkansas. But follow this link to the Dallas Morning News Web site and you'll see the 10 running backs on the list.

  McFadden, of course, won the Doak Walker Award last season. He's the favorite to win it again. The semifinal list will be trimmed to three finalists on Nov. 19. The Doak will be awarded during the college football awards show on Dec. 6.