There have been major changes to the Hogs football program following the loss to Notre Dame. Now under interim head coach Bobby Petrino, Arkansas faces a tough SEC schedule without its former head coach, defensive coordinator, co-defensive coordinator and defensive line coach.
Bye-Week Preparations for the Hogs
The timing of the coaching change during a bye week is beneficial for Arkansas. While there’s never a good time to move on from a head coach, the extra week gives Petrino time to settle in.
That is especially important in this case with changes beyond just the head coach. With new leadership on the defensive side, Petrino and the staff will spend the week working through adjustments with fewer coaches on staff while preparing for a challenging seven-game stretch.
When a coaching change occurs, players have a 30-day window to enter the transfer portal, but none have done so yet. Petrino has been encouraged by the team’s response. His message to the players is that they have nine weeks to market themselves, whether that means pursuing the NFL, staying at Arkansas or eventually entering the portal.
Coaching Change Impacts
Coaching changes bring plenty of emotions to a locker room, but Petrino hopes the team can rally and finish the season on a high note. The impact extends beyond current players as well. Recruiting has already taken a hit, with seven decommits since Pittman’s firing. That means the next head coach will likely need to rely heavily on late recruiting flips and the transfer portal to fill out the roster.
Looking Ahead for the Hogs
The offensive staff remained largely intact, with Kolby Smith now serving as interim offensive coordinator. The offense has been the biggest bright spot for the Hogs this season, ranking fourth in the SEC in yards per game, fifth in passing yards and third in rushing yards.
Quarterback Taylen Green has been the driving force, ranking second in the conference in passing yards and third in rushing yards. His play will be key as Arkansas enters a daunting stretch.
The first test in the post-Pittman era comes Oct. 11 when the Hogs travel to Neyland Stadium to face Tennessee. Arkansas is set to face five teams currently ranked in the top 20, including two in the top 10. Reaching a bowl game will be difficult, but if the Hogs can get there, or even come close, it could strengthen Petrino’s case to take the job permanently.