Arkansas Razorback Football: Hogs Spring Practice Starts on Wednesday

Who will replace Bequette and Adams?

College football fans despair no more, spring football practices are starting across the country over the next couple of weeks as teams prepare for the 2012 campaign. Arkansas Razorback head coach Bobby Petrino will begin molding his players for the 2012 season starting on Wednesday.

After Petrino led No. 5 Arkansas to an improbable 11-2 season in 2011 capped by beating then BCS No. 8 Kansas State 29-16 in the Cotton Bowl, he now faces higher expectations entering 2012. With uncertainty at key positions who will earn important starting positions during spring practice is the focus of the Arkansas coaching staff as well as the Razorback fans?

The known production of the Tyler Wilson, the Hogs’ defensive line, and core returning offensive linemen has the makings of another 11 plus win for Arkansas. Filling in the gaps left by graduation could prove to be harder than most Razorback fans expect.

New defensive coordinator Paul Haynes had a crash course with his defensive unit the weeks leading up to the Cotton Bowl after the dismissal of former DC Willy Robinson. If Haynes sticks to the type of schemes ran against KSU the Hogs will spend the spring working on blitzing from the linebacker position and stunts by the defensive line; defensive production that was missing under Robinson.

Haynes will have to replace All-SEC middle linebacker Jerry Franklin and outside linebacker Jerrico Nelson. The only sure bet at starter in 2012 is Alonzo Highsmith Jr. starting at outside linebacker unless moved to the middle by the coaching staff to help stop the run.

Early talk has mid-term junior college transfer defensive end Austin Flynn (6’4”, 250 pounds) getting reps at middle linebacker. The Hogs are deep at defensive end with the return of Tank Wright, Chris Smith, and Trey Flowers.

Returning linebackers Braylon Mitchell and Jarrett Lake will get plenty of opportunities to win a starting job this spring.

The Hogs have three highly recruited linebackers coming to school in the fall to help fill any possible depth issues discovered during the spring- A.J. Turner, Otha Peters, and Vin Ascolese. The difference between immediate playing time in the linebacker rotation, action on special teams and redshirting will depend on the readiness of each newcomer come August.

Both safety spots will be scrutinized after the loss of Tramain Thomas and Elton Ford to graduation.

Canadian export Brett Weir was recruited as a safety in 2011. Will his size put him at safety, linebacker, or on the offensive side of the ball?

Where will Ross Rasner play in 2012? He lined up at outside linebacker last season but has the ability to play safety. Filling the greatest need come August will ultimately determine Rasner’s final position.

Petrino added two safeties to his 2012 recruiting class that could see playing time this year- Will Hines and Defonta Lowe.

On the checklist for a successful spring for the Razorbacks will include finding quality receivers to replace the 2,009 receiving yards totaled by Jarius Wright, Joe Adams, and Greg Childs. Added to the pressure of losing that trio is finding a punt returner to fill Adams’ All-American shoes.

Cobi Hamilton will be counted on as the lead receiver for the Hogs. All he will have to do is replicate what Jarius Wright did when Wright led the SEC in receiving yards (1,117) and receiving touchdowns (12).  

Hamilton has been known more for his big play ability and yards after the catch than his strict route running and sure-fire hands. The big question that will not be answered until the regular season begins is can Hamilton adjust to life in the SEC as a No. 1 receiver?

He has the size, speed, and ability to do it. Within Petrino’s offense Hamilton could be poised for an All-SEC season next fall.

After Hamilton, Petrino has so many wide receiver prospects to choose from it is hard to know where to start. Javontee Herndon had the most in-game experience when he added eight catches for 137 yards last year. His 17.1 yards per catch average was tops on the team. Julian Horton and Marquel Wade both earned game time in 2011 as well.

Wade’s speed and field vision could help Hog fans recover from the loss of Adams on special teams. Wide receiver Keante Minor is another speedster that will get a chance to return punts for Petrino.

Quinta Funderburk, Davyon McKinney, Kane Whitehurst, and Maurdecus Humphrey are all capable of earning playing time with their efforts in the spring. New comers Keon Hatcher, Eric Hawkins, Mekale McKay, D’Arthur Cowan, and junior college transfer Demetrius Wilson will add more competition to an already talented squad in August.

McKay 6’6” and Wilson 6’3” have the size and speed to become the next Greg Childs kind of receiver. Childs and former Razorback quarterback Ryan Mallett played jump ball in the corner of the end zone before Childs’ injury in 2010. McKay and Wilson could add that red zone threat missing last year.

The warm feeling of knowing Tyler Wilson is back under center has to allow Petrino a full night’s rest. Also knowing he has three starters returning in the backfield between Ronnie Wingo, Jr., Dennis Johnson, and All-SEC running back Knile Davis should bring a smile to his face while he sleeps.

The only thing that could possibly derail Petrino’s running attack is the growth of true sophomore linemen Mitch Smoothers and Brey Cook. Both players will have to replace graduating seniors Grant Cook and Grant Freeman.

Cook and Smoothers both saw extensive playing time early in the 2011 season. Losing a redshirt on both players may cost the Hogs in the long run but what the team gains from their game experience should pay dividends early in the 2012 season. That experience and a quick start to the Hogs running game could be the difference between a SEC Championship game berth or just another great season for the Razorback football team.

The Hogs will take the field for 14 practices before playing their Red-White game on April 21. 

For more Arkansas Razorback sports information check out Razorbackers.com!

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Arkansas Sports News Updates

After Sylvan Hills senior guard Archie Goodwin was picked to be one of 10 players on the Junior National Select Team on Friday, he followed that up with a MVP performance in the 5A state championship win over Little Rock Mills on Saturday.

Goodwin, a signee with University of Kentucky in November, scored 27 points in the championship game and ended his prep career with a dunk.

Sylvan Hills made it to the 5A championship game in 2011 but lost to Alma.

This is the first state championship for the Bears.

Not a bad weekend for Mr. Goodwin.

Let the Madness begin!

Several teams have been upset on their way to the NCAA Tournament. The biggest team to be knocked off was No. 1 Kentucky by Vanderbilt (71-64).

How the rest faired:

No. 4 UNC lost to No. 17 FSU 85-82, FSU beat No. 6 Duke 62-59 on Saturday

Unranked Colorado won the Pac-12 championship in their first year as a member

No. 18 San Diego State was upset in the MWC Tournament by New Mexico 68-59

Unranked Louisville beat unranked Cincinnati 50-44 to win the Big East Tournament

Cincinnati beat No. 2 Syracuse 71-68 on Friday

Unranked St. Bonaventure beat unranked UMass in the A-10 Tournament- No. 21 Temple was knocked out of the tourney by UMass on Friday

Lamar won the Southland Conference Tournament marking the first time a Pat Knight team has made it to the Big Dance. Only 27 appearances left to tie his father, Bob Knight.

Closed Spring Practices for Red Wolves

New ASU head coach Gus Malzahn has closed spring practice to the public and media as he prepares his group for Sun Belt Conference play. The only game that will be open to the public is the spring game on April 14 at 1:00 p.m. CST.

Spring practices begin Wednesday at 7:30 a.m.

Arkansas vs. Missouri, Petrino is game

At the West Memphis Razorback Club Arkansas head coach Bobby Petrino said he was all for the Razorbacks playing Missouri as their permanent SEC East opponent.

The strategy for the Boss Hog makes sense; the Hogs have slowly made headway into Missouri recruiting waters since Petrino took over as head coach. Being able to beat the Tigers on the field can only help the Razorbacks beat Missouri for in-state talent on National Signing Day.

Aaron Ross Commits to Texas Tech

2011 Arkansas Razorback signee Aaron Ross committed to Texas Tech last week. The 6’7”, 220-pound forward played for St. John’s Academy in Wisconsin after academic issues did not allow him to play for the Hogs.

Ross is the second Arkansas product headed to Tech to play for head coach Billy Gillispie, a near Razorback head coach before he took the Kentucky Wildcats job in 2007. Pulaski Academy guard Dusty Hannahs, 6’0”, 165 pounds (2-star per Scout.com) signed with Tech in November. 

View more Arkansas Razorback sports information at Razorbackers.com! 

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Arkansas Razorback Football: Petrino gets Second 2012 Verbal Commitment

The Hogs picked up their second class of 2013 verbal commitment from the state of Texas on Saturday when three-star wide receiver and defensive back prospect Austin Bennett announced he will sign with the Razorbacks.

Bennett (6’1” 170 pounds, 4.41 40-yard dash) is from Manvel, Tex. and was a teammate of 2012 Arkansas signee defensive end Taiwan Johnson.

According to Scout.com Bennett has scholarship offers from TCU, SMU, Ole Miss, and Utah.

Rivals.com lists Bennett’s 2011 receiving statistics: 41 receptions, 772 receiving yards, 6 touchdowns, for an 18.8 yard per catch average.

Bennett confirmed his announcement via Twitter Saturday night.

Arkansas head coach Bobby Petrino also has a verbal commitment from Katy, Tex. running back Jamel James (6’0”, 210 pounds). 

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Arkansas Razorback Football: Petrino Looks to Complete 2012 Recruiting Class

Arkansas Head Coach Bobby Petrino has one scholarship offer left to give to complete his 25-player 2012 recruiting class. His new target is athletic wide receiver Mekale McKay from Moore High School in Louisville, Kentucky.

McKay is listed anywhere from 6’4” to 6’6” between Scout.com and Rivals.com but both recruiting services agree on his 4.4 forty-yard dash speed.

The three-star prospect on Scout.com and Rivals.com took official recruiting trips to Ole Miss, Houston, and Arkansas after being offered by Kentucky, Louisville, West Virginia, Michigan State, Illinois, and Indiana among other schools.

His final two choices are reportedly between the Hogs and Ole Miss. McKay is to make his final decision within a week to two weeks.  

Scout.com ranks McKay as the 110th best wide receiver in the 2012 recruiting class.

In October McKay committed to University of Texas El Paso before de-committing and continuing the recruiting process.

Wherever McKay ends up enrolling for college he plans on taking his two-sport star abilities of football and basketball in high school to his new team.

McKay must like to know that Petrino has been supportive of his high-profile backup quarterback Brandon Mitchell’s role with the Razorback basketball team during the 2012 season. 

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Arkansas Razorback Football: New Site for Battle for the Golden Boot

The University of Arkansas announced today that the Razorbacks will no longer play LSU in the Battle for the Golden Boot in Little Rock at War Memorial stadium but will instead play the Tigers in Fayetteville at Reynolds Razorback Stadium on Nov. 24.

There was much speculation leading up to this announcement that Arkansas head coach Bobby Petrino and athletic director Jeff Long wanted to move the game from Little Rock to Fayetteville for both economic and thought recruiting advantages.

The last time the Hogs hosted the Tigers in Fayetteville the result was a 30-6 win for Arkansas during the 1992 season, the Razorbacks initial season in the SEC.

The Razorbacks had a 5-4 winning edge over the Tigers at War Memorial Stadium spanning the past 18 years. The last meeting between the two schools in Little Rock resulted in a 31-23 win for the Hogs over LSU in the 2010 season.

Since 2001, the winner of the Arkansas versus LSU game has gone on to represent the SEC West in the SEC Championship Game seven times. In 2002 the Hogs defeated LSU 21-20 in the game known as the Miracle on Markham in Little Rock to earn a berth in the SEC Championship Title Game.

The Golden Boot Trophy was first awarded in 1996 to help build upon the natural SEC West rivalry between the bordering states. The 24-karat gold trophy is molded into the shape of the two states forming a boot.

The Golden Boot Trophy is 4-foot tall weighing 175 pounds.

Arkansas also announced their two-year series with Rutgers on Friday. The home-and-home series will be the first time an SEC school has played at Piscataway, N.J. during the BCS era.

The Scarlet Knights will travel to Arkansas on Sept. 22 with the Razorbacks returning the scheduling favor Sept. 21, 2013. The void on the Hogs schedule was made possible when Texas A&M joined the SEC.

Due to the switch of venues for the LSU game, Arkansas will move the Ole Miss home game to War Memorial Stadium on Oct. 27.

If CBS picks up the broadcasting rights for the Arkansas versus LSU game, the game day could move from Saturday Nov. 24 to Friday Nov. 23. 

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Arkansas Razorback Recruiting: 2013 Top Recruits List Hogs among Favorites

Less than a week after the 2012 National Signing Day class faxed in their signatures, top teams are already looking ahead to the class of 2013. No teams are resting on their laurels including Arkansas Razorbacks Head Coach Bobby Petrino.

On Monday Scout.com listed their early 2013 top 100 recruit report. On the database of five and four-star recruits, Petrino already had 13 prospects listing the Razorbacks among their favorites:

• RB Ty Isaac, 6’2”, 220 pounds, 4-star, Joliet, IL
• RB Adam Taylor, 6’0”, 190 pounds, 4-star, Katy, TX
• WR John Diarse, 6’1”, 190 pounds, 4-star, Monroe, LA
• WR Ahmad Fulwood, 6’4”, 200 pounds, 4-star, Jacksonville, FL
• WR James Quick, 6’1”, 175 pounds, 4-star, Louisville, KY
• TE Hunter Henry, 6’5”, 242 pounds, 4-star, Little Rock, AR
• OT Ethan Pocic, 6’6”, 280 pounds, 4-star, Lemont, IL
• OT Laremy Tunsil, 6’6”, 282 pounds, 4-star, Lake City, FL
• DT Greg Gilmore, 6’4”, 285 pounds, 4-star, Hope Mills, NC
• DE Marcus Farria, 6’4”, 240 pounds, 4-star, Peoria, AZ
• DE Jason Hatcher, 6’3”, 240 pounds, 4-star, Louisville, KY
• SS Su’a Cravens, 6’1”, 205 pounds, 4-star, Murrieta, GA
• QB Tyler Bruggman, 6’2”, 185 pounds, 4-star, Phoenix, AZ

Two in-state players were among the 100 recruits listed, running back Altee Tenpenny from North Little Rock High School and tight end Hunter Henry from Pulaski Academy in Little Rock.

Tenpenny is rated as the No. 27 overall prospect while Henry is rated No. 43.

Tenpenny committed to University of Alabama days before the 2012 National Signing Day. He is scheduled to visit Arkansas the weekend of Feb. 11.

Several 2013 Razorback recruiting prospects have visited or are scheduled to visit Arkansas in the upcoming weeks. The list includes:

RB Altee Tenpenny, 6’0”, 203 pounds, North Little Rock, AR

RB Jordan Wilkins, 6’1”, 193 pounds, Cordova, TN

RB Ezekiel Elliot, 6’0”, 195 pounds, St. Louis, MO

RB Chase Abbington 6’4” 210, St. Peters, MO

RB Jamar Criswell, 5’9”, 165 pounds, Morrilton, AR

FB Riley Arvanitis, 6’0”, 225 pounds, St. John, IN

TE Christian Morgan, 6’4”, 244 pounds, Plano, TX

WR Drew Morgan, 6’1”, 185 pounds, Greenwood, AR

QB Brayden Scott, 6’2”, 195 pounds, Tahlequah, OK

QB Austin Allen, 6’2”, 210 pounds, Fayetteville, AR

QB Tyler Cogswell, 6’5”, 220 pounds, Plantation, FL

OL J.J. Gustafson, 6’6”, 265 pounds, Dallas, TX

OL Caleb Benenoch, 6’6”, 317 pounds, Katy, TX

LB Brooks Ellis, 6’2”, 215 pounds, Fayetteville, AR

SS Vonn Bell, 6’2”, 190 pounds, Rossville, GA

CB Devanta Johnson, 6’0”, 175 pounds, Tulsa, OK

ATH Dominique Alexander, 6’0” 190 pounds, Tulsa, OK

Vonn Bell has reportedly received an offer from Arkansas defensive coordinator Paul Haynes. He is scheduled to visit April 21.

Offensive lineman Caleb Benenoch will attend camp in June.

Jordan Wilkins was scheduled to visit this spring but is postponing his trip to Arkansas until this summer.

Per 247Sports.com, the Razorbacks have extended 49 offers to potential 2013 recruits. Of the 49 scholarship offers that have been reported, only four are currently extended to in-state players- Austin Allen, Brooks Ellis, Altee Tenpenny, and Hunter Henry.

Four-star running back Jamel James, 5’11”, 215 pounds, from Cinco Ranch High School in Katy, Texas, is the only 2013 recruit currently verbally committed to Arkansas. He committed in July of 2011.

Recruiting rankings update in August after all college summer camps and seven-on-seven tournaments have been completed. 

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Bobby Petrino 2012 Signing Day Press Conference

Bobby Petrino's 2012 Signing Day Press Conference is interesting. He breaks down the recruits but not with a lot of detail. The press asks Petrino about DGB but neither Petrino nor the press goes to the next level or in too much depth on his situation.

Petrino does touch on the difficulties of the new SEC recruiting rule of hard capping teams at 25 players.

The video quality is not the best but the audio is fine.

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Arkansas Recruiting: Hogs Sign 24 in Nationally Ranked Recruiting Class

Once the smoke cleared on a busy National Signing Day for the Razorbacks, head coach Bobby Petrino and his staff had amassed one of the best recruiting classes in his tenure at Arkansas snagging five 4-star recruits and 19 3-star recruits.

A few twist and turns aside including a couple of surprise signees, the Hogs class is full of promising prospects at every position. In total the Razorbacks signed 23 players that were listed in the top 100 or better at their individual positions. None of the signees were rated 2-star or below.

The biggest surprise of the day was the addition of former Alabama commitment Darius Philon (Prichard, AL) and former Fayetteville Bulldogs tight end Demetrius Dean.

Dean was a 3-star prospect who signed with Arkansas in 2011 but did not join the team for fall practices. Coming out of high school he was listed at 6’3”, 245 pounds, and was ranked as the sixth best player in the state of Arkansas per Rivals.com.

Because of Dean’s versatility, size, and athleticism he could lineup as a tight end or fullback in college. The nationally ranked 28th best tight end in the 2011 class will join the Hogs as a scholarship player this spring.

At Bobby Petrino’s National Signing Day press conference Wednesday evening, he said he was unsure if Dean’s scholarship would count against the 2011 class or the 2012 class.

Perhaps the biggest surprise of the day was the addition of Darius Philon, 6’1”, 282 pounds. He had been an Alabama commitment since de-committing from Auburn in September.

Come signing day Alabama head coach Nick Saban asked Philon to grey-shirt until spring of 2013. Instead he decided to sign with the Razorbacks over Alabama joining his Vigor high school teammate Ja’Michael Winston in Fayetteville becoming of one Arkansas’ final recruits on National Signing Day.

Philon’s size and speed could make him a defensive tackle at the college level.

With one remaining scholarship left Arkansas may not be finished adding top talent to their 2012 recruiting class.

Five-star offensive tackle Jordan Diamond from Chicago, IL and five-star wide receiver Davont’e Neal from Scottsdale, AZ remain unsigned. Both players have the Hogs among their final choices.

The only recruit that was previously committed to Arkansas but opted to sign with another school was junior college wide receiver Courtney Gardner.

Gardner, a 4-star prospect from Rocklin, CA, was reportedly a couple of classes short of meeting SEC enrollment standards. To avoid taking the extra classes needed to fulfill SEC requirements, on Wednesday Gardner officially signed a letter of intent with University of Oklahoma.

Here’s a list of the 2012 Arkansas Razorback recruiting class:

OG Cordale Boyd, 3-star, 6’3”, 290 pounds, Memphis, TN

OG Jeremy Ward, 3-star, 6’4”, 275 pounds, Pottsville, AR

WR D’Arthur Cowan, 3-star, 6’1’, 175 pounds, Olive Branch, MS

WR Keon Hatcher, 4-star, 6’1”, 195 pounds, Owasso, OK

WR Eric Hawkins, 3-star, 6’5”, 220, Longview, TX

WR #Demetrius Wilson, 3-star, 6’2”, 170 pounds, Glendale, AZ

RB Jonathan Williams, 4-star, 5’11”, 205 pounds, Allen, TX

RB Nathan Holmes, 3-star, 6’1”, 180 pounds, Port Arthur, TX

RB Donovan Roberts, 3-star, 6’0”, 200 pounds, Norman, OK

TE Jeremy Sprinkle, 3-star, 6’6”, 215, White Hall, AR

TE Demetrius Dean, 3-star, 6’4”, 235, Fayetteville, AR

CB Ray Buchanan Jr., 3-star, 5’10”, 170 pounds, Suwannee, GA

CB Jared Collins, 3-star, 5’11”, 170 pounds, Tulsa, OK

FS Will Hines, 3-star, 6’1”, 175 pounds, Waco, TX

SS Defonta Lowe, 3-star, 6’2”, 180 pounds, Bearden, AR

LB A.J. Turner, 3-star, 6’3”, 200 pounds, Lepanto, AR

LB Vin Ascolese, 3-star, 6’2”, 215 pounds, New Bergen, NJ

LB Otha Peters, 4-star, 6’1”, 220 pounds, Covington, LA

DE Brandon Lewis, 3-star, 6’5”, 220 pounds, Memphis, TN

DE JaMichael Winston, 3-star, 6’6”, 230 pounds, Prichard, AL

DE Deatrich Wise Jr., 4-star, 6’5”, 220, Carrolton, TX

DE Taiwan Johnson, 4-star, 6’3”, 230 pounds, Manvel, TX

DE Darius Philon, 3-star, 6’1”, 282, Prichard, AL

DE *#Austin Flynn, 3-star, 6’4”, 250 pounds, Los Angeles Harbor CC

*Already enrolled at University of Arkansas

# Denotes junior college player

Position by position breakdown of Arkansas 2012 verbal commitments:

Offensive line: two

Running backs: three

Wide receivers: four

Quarterbacks: none

Tight ends: two

Defensive line: six

Linebackers: three

Safeties: two

Cornerbacks: two

Kickers: none

How the recruiting services ranked Arkansas:

Scout.com No. 21

Rivals.com No. 31

247Sports.com No. 27

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Arkansas Recruiting Speculations and Updates: Hogs Add Louisiana Linebacker to Class

The Times-Picayune reporter Ted Lewis is reporting that 4-star linebacker Otha Peters from Covington, LA has flipped his commitment from University of Tennessee to the Razorbacks. Peters has been a Vols verbal commitment since July 21.

Peters, 4-star, 6’1”, 221 pounds, is considered the sixth best inside linebacker in the nation per Rivals.com.

Lewis noted in his report that Covington Coach Malter Scobel was worried about the instability of the Tennessee program in the upcoming years. Scobel added that Arkansas did not have the same challenges ahead of them as Tennessee.

Arkansas head coach Bobby Petrino and new defensive coordinator Paul Haynes have been searching for top talent to replace departing seniors Jerry Franklin and Jerrico Nelson in their linebacker unit.

Early speculation centered on mid-term enrollee Austin Flynn and his ability to play linebacker for the Hogs in 2012. Flynn may still get a chance to switch from his defensive end position to linebacker for the Razorbacks but the signing of Peters should help Haynes depth at linebacker for the upcoming season.

Peters is the third linebacker verbally committed to the Hogs 2012 recruiting class joining A.J. Turner (Lepanto, Ark.) and Vin Ascolese (New Bergen, N.J.).

Razorback Recruiting Speculation

Word is 4-star junior college wide receiver Courtney Gardner may flip from Arkansas to Oklahoma due to the restrictions the SEC places on incoming JC players. Gardner would have to take extra classes if he were to enroll in any SEC school not just at Arkansas.

The Big 12 does not have the same enrollment standards as the SEC.

Recent junior college verbal commitment Demetrius Wilson is reported to not have any class restrictions delaying his ability to enroll at Arkansas once his spring semester is completed.

If Gardner de-commits the Hogs still have two possibly three scholarships remaining. Which recruits will receive the final two or three scholarships? The possibilities are debatable.

Despite the false reporting of one of the Razorbacks top recruiting prospects, Dorial Green-Beckham of Springfield, MO, committed to Missouri, the Hogs still remain in the running as his college of choice. He is still a strong possibility.

DGB is scheduled to announce his decision Wednesday morning at 9:00 a.m. EST on ESPNU.

Five-star offensive tackle Jordan Diamond is reportedly giving his private decision Tuesday night to the school of his choice but not making an official announcement until Friday, Feb. 3. The Hogs are among his favorites.

Diamond has taken official visits to Michigan, Auburn, Wisconsin, Ohio State, and Arkansas.

Bobby Petrino and staff will hold a spot for Diamond if he privately commits. If the Hogs only sign 24 players on Wednesday chances are Diamond will be a Razorback come Friday.

With the verbal commitment of Otha Peters the likelihood of linebackers Reggie Northrup (4-star, Jacksonville, FL) or Seth Jacobs (4-star, Arroyo Grandee, CA) coming to Arkansas looks slim. Jacobs played linebacker in high school but is being looked at as a safety for the Hogs.

Four-star cornerback Davont’e Neal from Scottsdale, AZ, three-star cornerback Chris Humes from Hoover, AL, or three-star cornerback Gary Simon from St. Petersburg, FL could end up taking one of the remaining scholarships. If Jacobs chooses to play safety in college he could end up back in the conversation taking one of these final scholarships.

Should DGB choose Missouri or Texas over the Hogs, speculation is 4-star wide receiver Javon Williams from Chandler, AZ or 3-star wide receiver Brad Culp from Fayetteville, AR could take that scholarship.

Here’s a list of the 23 verbally committed Razorbacks recruits:

OG Cordale Boyd, 3-star, 6’3”, 290 pounds, Memphis, TN

OG Jeremy Ward, 3-star, 6’4”, 275 pounds, Pottsville, AR

WR D’Arthur Cowan, 3-star, 6’1’, 175 pounds, Olive Branch, MS

WR Keon Hatcher, 4-star, 6’1”, 195 pounds, Owasso, OK

WR Eric Hawkins, 3-star, 6’5”, 220, Longview, TX

WR #Demetrius Wilson, 3-star, 6’2”, 170 pounds, Glendale, AZ

RB Nathan Holems, 3-star, 6’1”, 180 pounds, Port Arthur, TX

RB Donovan Roberts, 3-star, 6’0”, 200 pounds, Norman, OK

TE Jeremy Sprinkle, 3-star, 6’6”, 215, White Hall, AR

RB Jonathan Williams, 4-star, 5’11”, 205 pounds, Allen, TX

WR #Courtney Gardner, 4-star, 6’3”, 215, Rocklin, CA

CB Ray Buchanan Jr., 3-star, 5’10”, 170 pounds, Suwanee, GA

CB Jared Collins, 3-star, 5’11”, 170 pounds, Tulsa, OK

DE Brandon Lewis, 3-star, 6’5”, 220 pounds, Memphis, TN

SS Defonta Lowe, 3-star, 6’2”, 180 pounds, Bearden, AR

LB A.J. Turner, 3-star, 6’3”, 200 pounds, Lepanto, AR

LB Vin Ascolese, 3-star, 6’2”, 215 pounds, New Bergen, NJ

LB Otha Peters, 4-star, 6’1”, 220 pounds, Covington, LA

DE JaMichael Winston, 3-star, 6’6”, 230 pounds, Prichard, AL

DE Deatrich Wise Jr., 4-star, 6’5”, 220, Carrolton, TX

FS Will Hines, 3-star, 6’1”, 175 pounds, Waco, TX

DE Taiwan Johnson, 4-star, 6’3”, 230 pounds, Manvel, TX

DE *#Austin Flynn, 3-star, 6’4”, 250 pounds, Los Angeles Harbor CC

*Already enrolled at University of Arkansas

# Denotes junior college player

Position by position breakdown of Arkansas 2012 verbal commitments:

Offensive line: two

Running backs: three

Wide receivers: five

Quarterbacks: none

Tight ends: one

Defensive line: five

Linebackers: three

Safeties: two

Cornerbacks: two

Kickers: none

Arkansas jumped in the recruiting rankings from No. 17 to No. 15 on Scout.com while Rivals.com moved the Hogs from No. 30 to No. 28 with the verbal commitment of Peters.

All verbal commitments are non-binding until a letter of intent is signed. 

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Arkansas Razorback Recruiting: Hogs Add another Verbal Commitment

Linebacker Vin Ascolese from North Bergen, New Jersey made an official announcement on Friday that he will be calling the Hogs on National Signing Day.

Ascolese is listed at 6-foot-2, 215 pounds and runs a 4.5 40-yard dash. He was the only New Jersey high school player that made the Parade All-American list this season.

Ascolese played in the Semper Fidelis All-American Game in Phoenix, Arizona January 3. He was one of 100 players selected for the game.

Vin Ascolese reported offers from South Carolina, Illinois, Cincinnati, and Michigan State. Texas A&M offered a scholarship on Jan. 24 but to no avail.

The Illinois coaching staff did an in-home visit on Thursday with Ascoles followed by an in-home visit from Arkansas head coach Bobby Petrino.

The Razorbacks have four scholarships remaining. Speculation is the Hogs have four private commitments waiting to announce on National Signing Day.

Edward Pope, a 4-star athlete from Carthage, Texas was scheduled to visit Fayetteville this weekend but the coaching staff canceled his visit. Chances are the Hogs would not have canceled his visit if they did not think they were set come Feb. 1.

Pope committed to TCU on Feb. 27, 2011.

Here’s a list of the 21 verbally committed Razorbacks recruits:

OG Cordale Boyd, 3-star, 6’3”, 290 pounds, Memphis, TN

OG Jeremy Ward, 3-star, 6’4”, 275 pounds, Pottsville, AR

WR D’Arthur Cowan, 3-star, 6’1’, 175 pounds, Olive Branch, MS

WR Keon Hatcher, 4-star, 6’1”, 195 pounds, Owasso, OK

WR Eric Hawkins, 3-star, 6’5”, 220, Longview, TX

RB Nathan Holems, 3-star, 6’1”, 180 pounds, Port Arthur, TX

RB Donovan Roberts, 3-star, 6’0”, 200 pounds, Norman, OK

TE Jeremy Sprinkle, 3-star, 6’6”, 215, White Hall, AR

RB Jonathan Williams, 4-star, 5’11”, 205 pounds, Allen, TX

WR Courtney Gardner, 4-star, 6’3”, 215, Rocklin, CA

CB Ray Buchanan Jr., 3-star, 5’10”, 170 pounds, Suwanee, GA

CB Jared Collins, 3-star, 5’11”, 170 pounds, Tulsa, OK

DE Brandon Lewis, 3-star, 6’5”, 220 pounds, Memphis, TN

DB Defonta Lowe, 3-star, 6’2”, 180 pounds, Bearden, AR

LB A.J. Turner, 3-star, 6’3”, 200 pounds, Lepanto, AR

DE JaMichael Winston, 3-star, 6’6”, 230 pounds, Prichard, AL

DE Deatrich Wise Jr., 4-star, 6’5”, 220, Carrolton, TX

FS Will Hines, 3-star, 6’1”, 175 pounds, Waco, TX

LB Vin Ascolese, 3-star, 6’2”, 215 pounds, New Bergen, NJ

DE Taiwan Johnson, 4-star, 6’3”, 230 pounds, Manvel, TX

DE *Austin Flynn, 3-star, 6’4”, 250 pounds, Los Angeles Harbor CC

*Already enrolled at University of Arkansas

Arkansas has five 4-star and 16 3-star commitments.

Position by position breakdown of Arkansas 2012 verbal commitments:

Offensive line: two

Running backs: three

Wide receivers: four

Quarterbacks: none

Tight ends: none

Defensive line: six

Linebackers: two

Safeties: two

Cornerbacks: two

Kickers: none

Arkansas fell in the recruiting rankings from No. 13 to No. 17 on Scout.com. Rivals.com dropped the Hogs one spot from No. 29 to No. 30.

All verbal commitments are non-binding until a letter of intent is signed. 

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Arkansas Sports Quick Hits

Five players with ties to the state of Arkansas will be playing in this year’s Super Bowl in Indianapolis.

The New York Giants have three players on their roster: OT Stacy Andrews (Camden, Ark), Mitch Petrus from Carlisle High School (University of Arkansas) in his second season, and Tony Ugoh (University of Arkansas) in his fifth season in the NFL.

The New England Patriots have two players with Arkansas connections with rookie quarterback Ryan Mallett (University of Arkansas) and practice squad linebacker Markell Carter (University of Central Arkansas).

Mallett is listed as the Pats third string quarterback behind Tom Brady and Brian Hoyer.

Carter was a 2011 sixth round draft pick of the Pats.

A Transfer for the Razorbacks Basketball Team

According to Hot100Hoops.com 6’2” guard Fred Gulley has transferred from Oklahoma State to the Hogs.

Gulley, a redshirt sophomore from Fayetteville, Ark., enrolled at mid-term and will be allowed to play for the Hogs after the fall semester is completed in 2012 once he is cleared by the NCAA.

To date Gulley has not been officially offered a scholarship by Arkansas head coach Mike Anderson.

Gulley averaged 16.4 points per game on the 2009 Fayetteville High School team that went 30-0 and won the state championship.

Long Time Coming for Jeff Long

After a Top Five finish for the Razorbacks in football what else could athletic director Jeff Long hope for with Arkansas’ athletic program?

Long can boast that the gymnastics team that is currently ranked No. 1 in the nation, the men’s track team that is ranked No. 1 (first time since 2009), the women’s track team that is ranked No. 3, men’s golf is No. 3, and the baseball team preseason No. 4.

Congratulations to Jeff Long, the Arkansas athletic department, the coaching staffs, and the players.  

Arkansas College Football Recruiting Update

Arkansas commitment defensive end JaMichael Winston, 3-star, is scheduled to visit Michigan State this weekend. He visited Clemson this past weekend. Clemson has not officially offered Winston a scholarship, Michigan State has.

Defensive tackle Tyler Nero is not visiting Arkansas this weekend.  

4-star defensive end Tawain Johnson was visited at school by Arkansas head coach Bobby Petrino and offensive line coach Chris Klenakis on Monday. Johnson visited Clemson this past weekend.

Dalton Santos is scheduled to make an official visit to Texas next weekend. Santos, a University of Tennessee commitment, visited the Hogs this past week.

3-star Arkansas wide receiver commitment Eric Hankins was reported to have an in-school visit from Petrino and cornerbacks coach Bobby Allen on Tuesday.

Quarterback Nick Schuessler may only visit Arkansas on Friday. He is scheduled to visit Mississippi State on Saturday. 

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Arkansas Recruiting Update: Razorbacks hosted 18 Top Recruits over the Weekend

The Arkansas Razorbacks had perhaps their most impressive list of official visitors during the Bobby Petrino era when the Hogs hosted 17 top high school seniors and one junior college player over the weekend.

Springfield, Missouri wide receiver Dorial Green-Beckham and Spring, Texas running back Trey Williams were two of the four 5-star recruits among the official visitors the Hogs hosted. Green-Beckham and Williams are considered Top 15 players in the nation per Rivals.com.

Green-Beckham, widely considered the top recruit in the 2012 class, has not made a verbal committed to date. Williams is considered a solid Texas A&M commitment.

Offensive tackle Jordan Diamond from Simeon Vocational High School in Chicago was another 5-star that visited the Hill. Diamond has offers from seemingly every Division 1-A school possible including Alabama, Illinois, Oregon, Miami, Auburn, Florida State, Ohio State, and Notre Dame along with one from the Razorbacks.

Diamond has taken official visits to Auburn, Ohio State, and Michigan. He is scheduled to visit Wisconsin next weekend.

Athlete Davonte Neal from Scottsdale, Arizona was another 5-star on campus. According to ESPN.com Neal is the eighth best player in the nation. Neal’s offer list is a “whose who” list of top programs. Among the schools to offer are LSU, USC, Auburn, Florida State, UCLA, and North Carolina.

Neal has taken official visits to Notre Dame and Ohio State and will receive in-home visits from both schools on Thursday. He is scheduled to take an official visit to North Carolina this weekend and Arizona on February 10, 10 days after signing day.

Will the Hogs hold a scholarship spot open for him 10 days after LOI Day?

The weekend was complete for the recruits with a visit to the Catfish Hole for dinner on Saturday night instead of the usual Friday night to accommodate for late arrivals, watching the Hogs beat No. 20 University of Michigan 66-64, and the traditional Arkansas pre-game experience for the recruits at Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

No players officially verbally committed over the weekend.

Here’s a list of the recruits that took an official visit this past weekend:

(Position, Player, Ranking, Location, Commitment)

WR Dorial Green-Beckham, 5-Star, Springfield, Missouri, not committed

RB Trey Williams, 5-Star, committed to Texas A&M

WR Davonte Neal, 5-Star, Scottsdale, Arizona, not committed

OT Jordan Diamond, 5-Star, Chicago, Illinois, not committed

OL Jeremy Ward, 4-Star, Pottsville, Arkansas, committed to Arkansas

LB A.J. Turner, 4-Star, Lepanto, Arkansas, committed to Arkansas

LB Dalton Santos, 3-Star, Van, Texas, committed to Tennessee

RB Donovan Roberts, 3-Star, Norman, Oklahoma, committed to Arkansas

LB Kenny Orjioke, 3-star, Marietta, Georgia, committed to UCLA

CB Gary Simon, 3-star, St. Petersburg, Florida, not committed

OG/TE Joey Warburg, 3-star, Louisville, Kentucky, committed to Illinois

WR *Demetrius Wilson, 3-star, Glendale, Arizona, not committed

OG Cordal Boyd, 3-star, Memphis, Tennessee, committed to Arkansas

DE Jeremy Sprinkle, 3-star, White Hall, Arkansas, committed to Arkansas

ATH Nathan Holmes, 3-star, Port Arthur, Texas, committed to Arkansas

FS Dafonta Lowe, 3-star, Bearden, Arkansas, committed to Arkansas

WR Keon Hatcher, 3-star, Owasso, Oklahoma, committed to Arkansas

WR D’Arthur Cowan, 3-star, Olive Branch, Mississippi, committed to Arkansas

*Denotes Junior College Player

Possible Official Visits that did not Visit

WR Bralon Addison, 4-star, Sugar Land, Texas, committed to Texas A&M

DE Darius English, 3-Star, Powder Springs, Georgia, committed to South Carolina

OL Germain Ifedi, 3-Star, Houston, Texas, committed to Texas A&M

DT Tyler Nero, 3-Star, Atmore, Alabama, committed to Auburn

TE Sean Price, 4-Star, Citra, Florida, committed to South Florida

Tyler Nero may visit this upcoming weekend. Nero is the son of former Arkansas Razorback player Norman Nero.

Possible Official Visits for weekend of January 27

ATH Edward Pope, 2-star, Carthage, Texas, committed to TCU

OLB Jakarri, Thomas, 2-star, Tallahassee, FL, committed to Arkansas

DB John Gibson, 3-star, Missouri City, Texas, committed to Arkansas

DE Brandon Lewis, 3-star, committed to Arkansas

CB Jared Collins, 3-star, Tulsa, Oklahoma, committed to Arkansas

Collins, Lewis, Gibson, and Thomas have all verbally committed to Arkansas but have not officially visited.

Recruiting Updates

Beau Hankins, a 3-star linebacker from Birmingham, Alabama, was offered by Penn State last week. Hankins has taken official visits to Arkansas, Florida International, and went to University of Central Florida during this past weekend with best friend Harding Harper, 3-star linebacker.

Arkansas is thought to be leading for Hankins signature on National Signing Day. No word how Penn State’s offer may affect his decision.

Another Missouri Commitment De-commits then Recommits Somewhere Else

Will Hines, a 3-star cornerback from Waco, Texas verbally committed to the Hogs after his visit to Arkansas over the weekend of Jan. 13. The No. 35 ranked cornerback in the nation will join one of his best friends, running back Jonathan Williams, at Arkansas for the 2012 season. 

Hines and Williams were both previously verbally committed to Missouri.

Whatever Happened to…

Former Arkansas commitment defensive tackle Mike Pennel, 6’5”, 340 pounds, of Scottsdale Junior College took a recruiting visit to Kansas State this past weekend. He visited Hawaii the weekend of Jan. 13.

Pennel has used four of his five official visits and remains uncommitted- Arkansas, Texas A&M, Hawaii, and Kansas State.

When Just One In-Home Visit Won’t Do

Linebacker Reggie Northup had an in-home visit from defensive coordinator Paul Haynes and receivers coach Kris Cinkovich on Monday Jan. 23. He will receive another in-home visit from new linebacker’s coach Taver Johnson this week.

Northup was committed to Miami but has reopened his recruiting due to the NCAA investigation into Miami’s program. He visited Arkansas for their home game against Tennessee in November. He visited Florida State this past weekend and is scheduled to visit Ohio State this weekend.

Another Possible Verbal Commitment

3-star linebacker Vin Ascolese from North Bergen, New Jersey let it be known on Twitter that he will announce his decision publicly at his high school on Jan. 25. Ascolese visited Illinois this past weekend after visiting the Hogs the prior weekend.

Ascolese is a Parade All-American.

Still Solid?

Razorback commitment Courtney Garner, a 4-star Junior College wide receiver from Sierra Community College in California, was supposed to visit Florida State this past weekend but did not go. Garner is scheduled to visit Oklahoma this weekend.

When a commitment continues to take visits there is always a chance that recruit may flip. Razorback fans have their fingers crossed that Garner will stay a solid commitment. He is the No. 12 ranked junior college player in the nation per Rivals.com.

The 2013 Class

North Little Rock junior running back Altee Tenpenny, 5’11”, 200 pounds, was visited by Arkansas head coach Bobby Petrino and running back coach Tim Horton on Tuesday. Also visiting Tenpenny on Tuesday was the new head coach for Arkansas State, Gus Malzahn.

Tenpenny reports offers from Arkansas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Alabama, Ole Miss, and Auburn among others.

Alabama head coach Nick Saban visited Tenpenny on Wednesday.

Remember Me before You Go

University of Missouri head coach Gary Pinkel tried to make a lasting impression on Dorial Green-Beckham before his visit to Arkansas. In an effort to one-up Bobby Petrino’s visit to DGB at school earlier in the day on Wednesday, Pinkel landed on the school’s Birmingham Field at the end of the school day to visit with the top recruit. 

Speculation has Green-Beckham’s schools narrowed down to Arkansas and Texas with an outside chance of Missouri winning his signature. DGB has not made an official announcement to date. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Any Razorback fans ready for fall practices yet?

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