For the first time since 2022, Arkansas will open its season inside Reynolds Razorback Stadium as they host Alabama A&M. Head coach Sam Pittman met with the media as the season approaches on Saturday.
“It’s really nice to be able to have what looks like a pretty good temperature game as well,” Pittman said. “We’re certainly hoping that a lot of Hog fans are in the stands.”
Alabama A&M Preview
The matchup will feature a new-look Bulldogs team under head coach Sam Shade. He came from Miles College after leading the program to a conference title. Several of his staff members and players made the move with him. Which Pittman said has added an extra wrinkle to Arkansas’ preparations.
“They’ve got a lot of new people, brought some kids over from Miles as well,” Pittman said. “So we’re doing back and forth watching with Alabama A&M from last year, and certainly Miles College from offensive and defensive special teams standpoint.”
In the annual Phil Steele Southwestern Athletic Conference preseason all-conference team, Alabama A&M had seven players represented. Offensive lineman Tyrell Lawerence and kicker Victor Barbosa were the only first team names. While quarterback Cornelious Brown IV, wide receiver Donivan Wright, linebacker Dimitris Biamby, and defensive linemen Xzavier Booker, and Nick Glenn all on the third team.
Arkansas Approach
Pittman emphasized discipline and execution will be key for Arkansas in its opener.
“We need to play smart football, penalty-free football. We’ve got to hang on to the football, and we have to play to our standard,” he said. “That’s going to be a mantra of us all season.”
Arkansas enters the opener with an older roster than in past years. Pittman believes this could help set the tone early in the season.
“Anytime you get a team that’s led by the players, you sure are going to have a big advantage when times get tough out there,” Pittman said. “We’re a fast team, we’re a big team.”
At wide receiver, the Razorbacks list CJ Brown, Jaylen Brown and Omega Blake as starters on the opening depth chart. Though Pittman also pointed to Monte Harrison as a consistent performer throughout fall camp. Injuries will impact the rotation, with David Oki sidelined and Antonio Jordan doubtful, but Pittman said Raylen Sharpe is expected to return Saturday.
Quarterback depth could also be tested if Arkansas pulls away, which Pittman views as an important opportunity to build confidence behind starter Taylen Green. He referenced last season when backup Malachi Singleton gained valuable experience in nonconference play.
“You can’t handcuff your offense, because you’ve got to see what you’ve got,” Pittman said. “You’ve got to develop confidence in whomever’s in the game.”
[You may also be interested in Bobby Petrino Sees Offensive Improvements]
Looking Ahead
As the Razorbacks prepare for the opener, Pittman said he is blocking out outside noise and focusing only on his team’s performance.
“Really all that matters is how our team plays, and I can control that to a certain degree,” Pittman said. “I can’t control what people think about me or what they write about me, so I’m not really concerned about it.”
Arkansas and Alabama A&M are set to kick off Saturday at Reynolds Razorback Stadium, marking the start of Pittman’s fifth season leading the Razorbacks.
Discover more from Inside Arkansas
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.