SBNation.com User Blog: Arkansas Expats

Arkansas Baseball Wins Series Against Tennessee 2-1

Arkansas Expats — Mon, 13 May 2013 02:54:12 -0000

This wasn't exactly the most dramatic of baseball weekends. All three games were blowouts. As we wrote last week, Arkansas is firmly on the bubble as far as hosting a regional, so Friday's 8-3 loss was pretty disappointing.

However, the bats came alive Saturday and Sunday, and the Razorbacks are really hard to beat when they're hitting. They won on Saturday 11-1 and on Sunday 10-2.

Here's the recap from UA:

The 14th-ranked Arkansas baseball team took two of three games from Tennessee over the weekend. The Razorbacks are now 34-17 on the season and 17-9 in Southeastern Conference play. Arkansas has won seven of its first nine SEC series for the first time since the 1999 season. With the results over the weekend, Arkansas has clinched a top four seed and a first round bye in the 2013 SEC Tournament.

The Razorbacks hit .300 as a team against the Volunteers. Brian Anderson had a strong weekend at the plate, going 7-for-13 at the plate with a homer, five RBI and five runs scored. Four of Anderson’s seven hits were extra-base hits as he recorded a double, two triples and a homer. Dominic Ficociello hit .364 (4-for-11) in the series with a homer and four RBI. Matt Vinson went 4-for-12 on the weekend with a home run, two RBI, five runs scored and a stolen base. Jordan Farris drove in a team-leading six runs in the series and went 3-for-11 in the series.Jacob Mahan also went 3-for-11 against Tennessee with a RBI and a run scored.

The Arkansas pitching staff compiled a 3.33 team ERA in the series. Ryne Stanek and Randall Fant each earned a win in the weekend series. Stanek worked seven shutout innings in the second game of the series vs. Tennessee, striking out nine and allowing just five hits. Fant picked up the victory in the series finale on Sunday after working 6.1 shutout innings with only two hits allowed and five strikeouts. Five Razorback relievers turned in one scoreless outing in relief. Colin Poché struck out three and gave up a hit in 1.1 scoreless. Jalen Beeksretired all three batters he faced in the series finale. Michael Gunn, Trey Killian and Tyler Wright also made an appearance out of the bullpen without allowing a run.

The Razorbacks were nearly flawless defensively in the Tennessee series, committing just one error for a .991 fielding percentage. Since the series finale vs. LSU, Arkansas is fielding at a .979 clip.

Arkansas finishes the regular season next weekend with a three-game series at Auburn. Game times for the weekend series are scheduled for 6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and 1 p.m. on Saturday. The series finale will be televised on CST.

Arkansas Baseball Sweeps Two Games Against Georgia

Arkansas Expats — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 20:47:26 -0000

Here's the recap from UA:

The 15th-ranked Arkansas baseball team swept a weather-shortened series at Georgia over the weekend. Arkansas won both games played in the series, winning 2-0 on Friday and 2-1 on Saturday. The series finale on Sunday was cancelled due to inclement weather. The Razorbacks are now 29-15 on the season and 13-7 in Southeastern Conference play.

The Arkansas pitching staff compiled a 0.50 ERA in the two games against the Bulldogs. Barrett Astin turned in a dominant performance in the series opener, working a career-long eight shutout innings and striking out a season-high eight, while only allowing four hits. Ryne Stanek started Saturday’s game and turned in a quality start, allowing a run on seven hits and striking out three in 6.2 innings. Colby Suggs recorded a save in each game of the series. Suggs worked two scoreless innings and struck out one. Jalen Beeks and Landon Simpson each had a scoreless appearance out of the bullpen. Beeks struck out two in one inning, while Simpson retired the only batter he faced.

At the plate, the Razorbacks hit .138 in the Georgia series. Brian Anderson led Arkansas at the plate, going 3-for-7 at the plate with a RBI. Anderson also turned in a highlight reel defensive play in Saturday’s game, reaching over the bullpen fence down the left field line to make a great catch. The play was the No. 2 play on Sportscenter’s Top 10 plays for Saturday night. Jake Wise had two RBI and went 2-for-6 in the Georgia series, while Jacob Mahan was 1-for-3 with a run scored.

Arkansas plays its final non-conference game of the season on Tuesday, hosting Missouri State. First pitch against the Bears is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. Next weekend, the Razorbacks head to Lexington, Ky., to face No. 24 Kentucky Game times for the weekend series are scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Friday, 6 p.m. on Saturday and 12 p.m. All three games of the series will be televised with Friday and Saturday’s game on the Big Blue Sports Network and Sunday’s game on Cox Sports Television.

Arkansas Football: Bielema Spring Practice Wrap Up Press Conference

Arkansas Expats — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 01:19:06 -0000

You can view the depth chart here

Bielema on offense in spring game: I'd say that's what you're going to see this fall... We had a number of players play their best scrimmage
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 22, 2013

Bielema believes Brandon Mitchell can play both QB and another position. Sounds like something the Razorbacks will explore in offseason.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 22, 2013

Will Brandon Mitchell have a role at another position? Mitchell said that would be news to him today: "I just want to play quarterback."
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 22, 2013

Bielema also says the offense cuts down on turnovers more with Allen at the helm.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 22, 2013

Bielema also said S Defonta Lowe will not be back with the team. DE Austin Flynn won't be back, either. Neither practiced this spring.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 22, 2013

Bielema: Our offense has always got to be a little give and take between what we really want to do and what our players can do.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 22, 2013

Bielema: Offensively, I've been very impressed with J.Williams and K. Walker. N. Holmes has a different set of gifts that we can use.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 22, 2013

Bielema mentions AJ Turner and Otha Peters as two guys who could "make a jump if that lightbulb comes on" this summer.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 22, 2013

Bret Bielema says first-play injury to CB Tevin Mitchel - "a good player" - impacted CB play in R-W game and have to "continue to develop"
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) April 22, 2013

Bielema on Will Hines: I told him, I can't recruit a cornerback that is physically what you are... I think the upside for him is great.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 22, 2013

Bielema: Austin Beck had a really big jump the past two weeks.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 22, 2013

Bielema on assembling his staff: I could have just brought everybody from Wisc....I wanted to bring in some influences from other areas
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 22, 2013

Bret Bielema said players will meet with position coaches one-on-one the next couple of days. He'll begin meeting with players Wednesday.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 22, 2013

Bielema says recruits' parents have noticed "how genuine everyone is here."
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 22, 2013

Bielema on speaking engagements around the state: I don't know what direction these cities are because we're flying, but it's been great.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 22, 2013

Arkansas Football Spring Practice Report: 4/18

Arkansas Expats — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 17:11:07 -0000

Chris Ash to the media: I don't want to tell you that we're ready to play an SEC game. But we're improving.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 18, 2013

Red-White set up - ones vs. ones, two vs twos - defense can get points with stops or forcing field goal
— Dudley E. Dawson (@Dedsports) April 18, 2013

Ash: The biggest thing is that we haven't been able to see our kids in front of fans... We want to see how they handle that situation.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 18, 2013

Ash on going good-vs-good in the spring game: I wouldn't have it any other way... To me it's the only way you can get better.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 18, 2013

Braylon Mitchell, Daunte Carr and Jarrett Lake have been the No. 1 linebackers and will be with the first team on Saturday
— Hawgs Illustrated (@HImagazine) April 18, 2013

Ash: The three linebackers they have been first-team guys have all never really played. But it is a brand new start for all of them
— Dudley E. Dawson (@Dedsports) April 18, 2013

Ash on Daunte Carr playing mike linebacker: When you look at the linebackers, we had to put somebody there.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 18, 2013

Ash: Daunte Carr happen to be the biggest of the linebackers and we looked at him as the best fit with what we wanted to do
— Hawgs Illustrated (@HImagazine) April 18, 2013

Ash on juco early enrollees: Have they improved? Yes. But are they where they need to be? No.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 18, 2013

Ash: We know who can line up, who can communicate, who puts their face on somebody. Depth is a concern, and how are those 3 LBs going to be?
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 18, 2013

Here's the recap from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE - The University of Arkansas football team continued spring practice on Thursday with a workout inside Walker Pavilion.

After practice, defensive coordinator Chris Ash spoke to the media. He talked about the improvement of the team throughout spring practice.

"From the first day we practiced until day 14, we have made a ton of improvement," Coach Ash said. "We have made a lot of improvement and I am pleased with that. That is the only thing that we can control is our improvement and we have done that."

Coach Ash also talked about playing in front of fans at Saturday's spring game.

"We haven't seen our players with fans out there," Coach Ash said. "We are hoping for a great crowd. We have to give our kids a chance to play in front of a crowd and get juiced up."

Arkansas' spring practices culminate in the Red-White Spring Game, presented by Cox, on Saturday at 2 p.m. inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Admission to the game is free.

Arkansas Football Spring Practice Report: 4/16

Arkansas Expats — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:28:09 -0000

Is Arkansas any closer to naming a starting QB? OC Jim Chaney said Allen is ahead of Mitchell, but decision is up to Bret Bielema.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 16, 2013

Ark OC @coachjimchaney is touting the passing game from the past several days. Said downfield throwing was much better. Allen slightly ahead
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) April 16, 2013

Here's the recap from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE - The University of Arkansas football team continued spring practice on Tuesday with a workout inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

After practice, Arkansas offensive coordinator Jim Chaney spoke to the media. He talked about the improvement of the team in recent practices, especially the quarterbacks.

"On Saturday and today, we went out and did some better things," Coach Chaney said. "I’m pleased with our development. We threw and caught the ball pretty well. Our quarterbacks have been doing a solid job."

Coach Chaney also talked about the team’s growth and progress throughout the spring practices.

"The attitude is good," Coach Chaney said. "The team is working hard. I feel comfortable that we are growing. Every day you can see the growth, and every day since the start of the spring there has been progress."

Practice continues this week with a workout on Thursday. Arkansas' spring practices culminate in the Red-White Spring Game, sponsored by Cox, on April 20 at 2 p.m. inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Admission to the game is free.

This years Red-White Spring Game will be broadcast in high-definition by CST. CST is available on channel 2119 on Cox systems in Arkansas, and Cox Advanced TV with Sports & Information tier is required. The game also will be available outside the CST viewing area on ESPN3.com and carried on the Razorback Sports Network throughout the state.

Arkansas Football Scrimmage Report: 4/13

Arkansas Expats — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 22:22:15 -0000

The Razorbacks held their last closed scrimmage of the spring before the Red White Game next Saturday. Bret Bielema spoke with the media afterwards:

Arkansas Football Spring Practice Report: 4/11

Arkansas Expats — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 14:20:22 -0000

@coachchrisash said today: "It's all starting to come together. I'm happy with where we're at. Long way to go, but the improvement …"
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) April 11, 2013

Ash: We are ahead of schedule (conceptually). Now it's about fine-tuning things. The improvement has been outstanding.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 11, 2013

Ash: We haven't blitzed a whole lot this spring. We've done a lot better job up front rushing the passer with 4 guys.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 11, 2013

Ash said Arkansas had to slow down installation earlier in the spring. But Hogs are back on schedule. May even be ahead a little bit now.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 11, 2013

Ash: Depth is a concern... Is there a drop off at certain positions? Yeah, there is.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 11, 2013

more from @coachchrisash: … "from day 1 to practice 11 has been outstanding." He said LBs have really picked things up last 3-4 practices
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) April 11, 2013

Ash called LB Braylon MItchell the "most improved player" on the defense so far this spring. He said Mitchell is working with first-team.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 11, 2013

AJ Turner back on the field. Ash: "He's been cleared to get back out there. He was able to get out there and get some reps, which was good."
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 11, 2013

Ash: Eric Bennett has had an outstanding spring. When we started practice, I didn't know what we were going to get out if him.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 11, 2013

Here's the recap from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE - The University of Arkansas football team continued spring practice on Thursday with a workout inside Walker Pavilion.

After practice, defensive coordinator Chris Ash spoke to the media. He talked about the overall progress that the defense has made during spring practice.

"There were a lot of positives shown during the scrimmages," Coach Ash said. "We did some red zone today and the guys have just gotten it. I’m definitely happy with the progress"

Coach Ash also talked about positional improvements, individual performances, and the goals for the defense moving forward.

"We are ahead of schedule," Coach Ash said. "I’m happy about that. Now it is about fine tuning things. There’s still a long way to go, but the improvement has been outstanding. Hopefully we’ll continue to trend upward."

Practice continues this Saturday, and the spring practice period wraps up next week with three workouts. Arkansas' spring practices culminate in the Red-White Spring Game, sponsored by Cox, on April 20 at 2 p.m. inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Admission to the game is free.

Arkansas Baseball Splits Doubleheader With New Mexico

Arkansas Expats — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 13:52:35 -0000

FAYETTEVILLE – The 10th-ranked Arkansas baseball team split a doubleheader with New Mexico on Tuesday at Baum Stadium. The Razorbacks won the nightcap, 4-3, after dropping the opening game of the doubleheader, 3-0.

Arkansas is now 24-10 overall on the season, while New Mexico stands at 17-16 after the twinbill split.

Tyler Spoon led the Razorbacks at the plate in the doubleheader, going 5-for-7 with a RBI. Matt Vinson was 4-for-8 with a pair of runs scored, while Dominic Ficociello was on base six times during the two games, going 2-for-5 at the plate with four walks.

Game One Recap: Arkansas drops opener of twinbill, 3-0

New Mexico pitchers Drew Bridges and Josh Walker combined on six-hit shutout as the Lobos defeated Arkansas, 3-0, in the first game of Tuesday’s doubleheader.

Tyler Spoon and Matt Vinson each had two hits to lead the Razorbacks at the plate. Jordan Farris and Dominic Ficociello also added one hit.

New Mexico was led offensively by Josh Melendez, who had three hits. Mitch Garver drove in a run and went 1-for-5, while Sam Haggerty was 1-for-3 with two runs scored.

Bridges (2-1) earned the win after allowing just three hits and striking out three in 5.1 innings. Walker picked up his sixth save, fanning two and giving up three hits in 3.2 innings.

Arkansas starter Tyler Wright (1-1) took the loss. Wright surrendered two unearned runs on three hits in two innings. Four Razorback relievers combined to allow an unearned run and strike out seven in seven innings.

The Lobos grabbed an early lead with a run in the top of the first. With two out and the bases loaded, a wild pitch from Wright allowed Sam Haggerty to score from third.

New Mexico added another run in the third on a one-out RBI ground out from Garver, scoring Haggerty from third.

The Lobos stretched the lead to 3-0 in the fifth inning. New Mexico had runners on first and second with nobody out and Peterson hit a ground ball to third that was misplayed by Jordan Farris for an error and went into left field, allowing Chase Harris to score from second.

Arkansas had its best chance to score in the opener in the bottom of the sixth inning. The Razorbacks loaded the bases with two out, but Michael Gunn hit into a fielder’s choice to second to end the inning and keep the score at 3-0.

Game Two Recap: Mahan’s walk-off single lifts Arkansas to doubleheader split

Arkansas senior Jacob Mahan broke a 3-3 tie in the bottom of the ninth with a two-out bases loaded RBI single to lift the Razorbacks to a 4-3 win in game two of Tuesday’s doubleheader.

With the game tied at three entering the bottom of the ninth, the Razorbacks put together a game-winning rally. With one out, Matt Vinson lifted a 2-2 pitch into left field for an opposite field single. A base hit to left by Tyler Spoon advanced Vinson to third and a fielding error by the left fielder allowed Spoon to take second. After an intentional walk to Dominic Ficociello, Brian Anderson struck out for the second out of the inning. Mahan, who had been battling a stomach bug for much of the day, stepped to the plate and sent a 1-1 pitch back up the middle and into center field, scoring Vinson from third and lifting Arkansas to a 4-3 win.

Spoon reached base all five times in game two, recording three hits and drawing two walks, while also driving in a run. Vinson scored a pair of runs and went 2-for-4 at the plate. Anderson hit his second homer of the season and went 1-for-3 with a RBI and two runs scored.

Josh Melendez and Alex Real each had two hits to lead New Mexico in game two. Chase Harris, Jared Holley and DJ Peterson each drove in a run.

Arkansas reliever Chris Oliver (2-0) picked up the victory, striking out a pair in three hitless innings. New Mexico reliever Hobie McClain (1-1) was saddled with the loss. McClain gave up a run on three hits and struck out three in 2.1 innings.

New Mexico jumped out to a 3-0 lead, scoring a run in the top of the first and two runs in the top of the second. In the first, Peterson drove in a run with a RBI single. The two runs in the second scored on a RBI single by Holley and a sacrifice fly from Harris.

Arkansas started its comeback in the bottom of the second. With one out and runners on the corners, Eric Fisher hit a fielder’s choice to second, scoring Anderson from third.

The Razorbacks got another run back in the home half of the fourth when Anderson led off the inning with his second home run of the season, sending an 0-1 pitch into the Razorback bullpen.

Arkansas tied the game with a run in the bottom of the fifth. After Vinson drew a one-out walk, Spoon doubled to the left-center field alley, scoring Vinson from first base.

The game would remain tied until the bottom of the ninth when Mahan’s heroics gave the Razorbacks a 4-3 win.

Arkansas continues Southeastern Conference play this weekend, hosting No. 2 LSU in a three-game series. First pitch is set for 6:35 p.m. on Friday, 6:05 p.m. on Saturday and 1:05 p.m. on Sunday. The final two games of the series will be televised on Cox Sports Television.

Arkansas Football Spring Practice Report: 4/9

Arkansas Expats — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 01:45:33 -0000

Offensive coordinator Jim Chaney met with the media following Tuesday's practice. Here's what we learned:

Arkansas Football Spring Scrimmage Report: 4/6

Arkansas Expats — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 20:03:23 -0000

Word I've never used in a story til today: Reggae ... Bielema treated fans to music from his iPod during early portions of practice.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 6, 2013

Here's a link to unofficial stats of the 101-play scrimmage.

Hogs complete 101-play scrimmage in about 1:20. Strong running by @jwillpart2 and strong goal line work. D-line played very well
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) April 6, 2013

Bielema: Defensively, I thought we were a little slow out of the gate. They have to learn the first snap is as good as the 60th snap.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 6, 2013

Bret Bielema after today's scrimmage: Goal-line is a mentality and I thought the offense brought it down there.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 6, 2013

Brandon Allen worked with the 1st team and went 9-for-13 for 97 yds with a TD, INT; Brandon Mitchell 7-for-16, 67 yds, INT
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 6, 2013

Bielema: I thought B. Allen moved forward today...B. Mitchell continues to impress me he is a competitor...all our qbs are making progress
— Nicole Muracco (@5NEWSNicole) April 6, 2013

Both top QBs threw a pick: Allen intercepted by E. Bennett in end zone; Carroll Washington picked Mitchell, and Ray Buchanan INT of Reed
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) April 6, 2013

Coach Bielema praises Jonathan Williams for his effort today and becoming a more complete back. He had 85 yards on 16 carries
— Dudley E. Dawson (@Dedsports) April 6, 2013

Bielema: Small brings an attitude to our offense that you can't put a price tag on ...I'm excited about him
— Nicole Muracco (@5NEWSNicole) April 6, 2013

Jevontee Herndon and Keon Hatcher both took big shots during the scrimmage and both were shaken up, but both are okay and came back.
— Dudley E. Dawson (@Dedsports) April 6, 2013

Bielema: I've been very impressed with Jarrett Lake and Robert Atiga... That's a position that's going to continue to grow.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 6, 2013

Austin Jones could probably play all three LB positions, especially mike. - Bret Bielema
— Ugly Uncle (@uglyuncle) April 6, 2013

Bielema: Austin Jones is always in the right place he is extremely intelligent
— Nicole Muracco (@5NEWSNicole) April 6, 2013

Bielema: From the first time I saw Otha Peters move and work out, there was something in him I really like.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 6, 2013

Coach Bielema: AJ Turner is limited, but it was good to get him out there. Loves what he sees out of linebacker Austin Jones
— Dudley E. Dawson (@Dedsports) April 6, 2013

Bielema: I'm very excited about Darius Philon. He had to earn his way back with us a little bit. I think he's going to continue to grow.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 6, 2013

Bielema: Every person looks at Travis Swanson with nothing but the greatest respect.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 6, 2013

Bielema: A major emphasis in strength training was lower body strength so our offensive line can move people.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) April 6, 2013

Here's the recap from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE - The University of Arkansas football team continued spring practice on Saturday with a workout inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. The team scrimmaged in front of hundreds of Arkansas fans. The team also met with local children from the Big Brothers, Big Sisters club, taking pictures and signing autographs.

After practice, Arkansas head coach Bret Bielema spoke to the media. He talked about the day’s practice and Saturday’s scrimmage.

"Today started out perfect," Coach Bielema said. "The kids were pumped and excited about having practice be open to the fans. They brought good energy and high tempo in the good weather. We are making tremendous strides"

The Razorbacks opened practice Saturday by playing reggae music over the loudspeakers. Coach Bielema discussed the positive impact that had on the team.

"I liked the music," Coach Bielema said. "It’s nice because the kids love it. It gets the kids popping, so that’s why we like to do it."

Coach Bielema also talked about his coaching philosophies, the positive moments from the day’s practice, and how the team is improving.

"There were a lot of positive things," Coach Bielema said. "There was a lot of good learning and good teaching out there. They are competing and playing very hard. I’m really excited about this group."

Practice continues next week with workouts scheduled for Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Arkansas' spring practices culminate in the Red-White Spring Game, sponsored by Cox, on April 20 at 2 p.m. inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Admission to the game is
free.

Arkansas Football Spring Practice Update: 4/4

Arkansas Expats — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 13:33:47 -0000

Ark DC Chris Ash:First day we scrimmaged wasn't what we wanted, but it was probably what I expected.
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) April 4, 2013

DC Chris Ash on safety TQ Coleman: "Pound for pound he’s one of the biggest hitters we’ve got out there. He can bring it."
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 4, 2013

Ash said LB AJ Turner's wrist injury is a big setback: "This is a big spring for him. To miss the time he’s missed, it’s going to hurt him.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) April 4, 2013

Taiwan Johnson today @meechie_40 "Since Day 1 when Coach Partridge got here, he worked to develop a relationship with me and the fellow...
— Trey Biddy (@TreyBiddy) April 5, 2013

The rest of Taiwan's quote @meechie_40 ...defensive ends. He's a great teacher, and he cares about us on and off the field."
— Trey Biddy (@TreyBiddy) April 5, 2013

Here's the recap from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE - The University of Arkansas football team practiced Thursday afternoon inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

After practice defensive coordinator and secondary coach Chris Ash spoke to the media about the progression of the defense thus far into the spring season.

"They are getting better," Coach Ash said. "They still have a long way to go; they keep working hard, it’s about understanding the details about their fundamentals."

Coach Ash also commented on improving weather allowing the Razorbacks to get outside and practice.

"It is nice to get outside," Coach Ash said. "It is really good for us to get outside and practice in the wind a little bit and be in the stadium. It is a nice change of pace. Unfortunately, we have been indoors due to weather, but hopefully with the weather change we will be outside more often."

Practice continues this week with workouts scheduled for Saturday. Arkansas’ spring practices culminate in the Red-White Spring Game, sponsored by Cox, on April 20 at 2 p.m. inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Admission to the game is free.

Arkansas Football Spring Practice Update: 4/2

Arkansas Expats — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 15:19:02 -0000

Offensive coordinator Jim Chaney spoke with the media after Tuesday's practice.

Arkansas Baseball Defeats Mississippi State; Wins Series 2-1

Arkansas Expats — Sun, 31 Mar 2013 21:22:45 -0000

After Arkansas came back to win the opener 5-4 on Friday, the two schools exchanged excellent pitching performances Saturday and Sunday. Mississippi State's Kendall Graveman threw a complete game on just 99 pitches to even the series on Saturday with a 4-1 win. But Randall Fant led the way for Arkansas to win the series with a 3-1 victory on Sunday.

Here's the Sunday recap from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE – Arkansas scored three runs in the bottom of the first and Arkansas pitcher Randall Fant, Jalen Beeks and Colby Suggs made that stand up for the rest of the game as the 13th-ranked Razorbacks defeated No. 15 Mississippi State, 3-1, in the series finale on Sunday afternoon at Baum Stadium.

The victory clinches the series for the Razorbacks and improves the team to 21-8 overall and 6-3 in Southeastern Conference play. Mississippi State drops to 23-8 overall and 3-6 in league play.

Fant (2-0) started on the mound and turned in his fourth consecutive quality start. The senior southpaw allowed one run on four hits and struck out six over six innings of work.

Fant then turned the game over to the Razorback bullpen, which worked three scoreless innings. Beeks allowed just one hit over his two shutout frames, while Suggs closed the door in the ninth, earning his third save of the season and second of the series with a scoreless ninth inning.

Mississippi State starter Ben Bracewell (0-1) took the loss. Bracewell did not record an out and gave up three runs on two hits and walked a pair.

Jake Wise had a pair of hits to lead the Razorbacks at the plate. Tyler Spoon and Matt Vinson each had a hit and a RBI, while Jacob Mahan and Joe Serrano had a hit and a run scored.

Wes Rea homered and went 2-for-4 with a RBI to lead Mississippi State offensively. C.T. Bradford, Demarcus Henderson and Brett Pirtle also contributed one hit each in the loss.

Arkansas scored its only three runs of the game in the bottom of the first. Mahan led off the inning with a single to center and a walk to Serrano put runners on first and second. Spoon then laced a double down the left field line, scoring Mahan and advancing Serrano to third. A walk to Brian Anderson loaded the bases and Vinson then drew a bases loaded walk to score the second run of the inning. Ficociello brought home the third run of the inning on his 6-4-3 double play.

Mississippi State got a run back in the top of the fourth. Rea led off the inning with his second home run of the inning, sending a 1-1 pitch over the wall in left field.

The Bulldogs were unable to get any closer the rest of the game. In the sixth, the Bulldogs left runners stranded on first and second after Daryl Norris flied out to center to end the threat.

Mississippi State attempted to mound one last rally in the ninth. The Bulldogs got the leadoff man on after an error by Ficociello, but Suggs came back to retire the next three batters to end the game and give Arkansas the series victory.

Arkansas continues SEC play next weekend in Tuscaloosa, Ala., against the Alabama Crimson Tide. The series begins on Thursday with a 7 p.m. first pitch in a game that will be televised by ESPNU. Friday’s game is set for a 6:35 p.m. first pitch, while the series finale on Saturday will start at 1:05 p.m.

Arkansas Football Spring Scrimmage Report: 3/30

Arkansas Expats — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 20:04:03 -0000

See full unofficial stats here

Arkansas scrimmaged for 73 plays Saturday and had 10 penalties on O and D....best play was Allen to Herndon for 65 us TD on 2nd&2
— Trey Biddy (@TreyBiddy) March 30, 2013

VERY unofficial stats: BAllen 11-19, 137 yds, 1 INT, 1 TD; BMitchell 7-14, 112 yds, 1 TD; JHerndon 2-79 (TD), J.Horton 5-61; E.Hawkins 2-61
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) March 30, 2013

Defensive stats: R.Gaines INT; J.Lake FF, T.Flowers FR; Sacks: Arkadie, Thomas, CSmith, Wise, Winston; PBUs: Wise, Gaines, Buchanan Jr.
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) March 30, 2013

Bielema said going into today QB Brandon Allen had a little bit of an edge on Brandon Mitchell. Allen worked with the 1st team today.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 30, 2013

But Bielema also stressed the competition at QB - as well as other positions - is not over. Plenty to continue to evaluate this spring.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 30, 2013

Bielema: Offensively, I thought Brandon Mitchell and Brandon Allen did good things, especially Mitchell in the second half.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 30, 2013

Bielema said there's lot to clean up. Plenty of penalties today (especially up front). But it's something that was addressed after practice.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 30, 2013

Keante Minor was moved from WR to RB. Bielema believes it's going pretty well: "We'd like to get him on the field."
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 30, 2013

Bielema: I've been very impressed with Jarrett Lake. He's played as well as any of the linebackers.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 30, 2013

Bielema: I would expect Brooks Ellis and Martrell Spaight to come in and compete at linebacker right away.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 30, 2013

Bielema said S Defonta Lowe is concentrating on academics this spring. Bielema on if he'll return: "It's in his hands."
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 30, 2013

Bielema: Our offensive line has really conceptually bought into the way we want to run the football. To learn how to do that is a process.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 30, 2013

Bielema: Brey Cook is a very good tackle but moving him inside to guard should add to his game.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 30, 2013

Bielema: If Sam Pittman is recruiting 30 linemen, he's Facebooking 15 and tweeting 15. He's the coaches' recruiting liaison.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 30, 2013

Bielema said LB A.J. Turner broke his wrist a few weeks ago. He's practicing, but is wearing a cast.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 30, 2013

Bielema: I really like Otha Peters. He's aggressive, he's explosive.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 30, 2013

WR Demetrius Wilson (head) and TE Mitchell Loewen (ankle) both were injured today. They didn't return, but Bielema said neither was serious.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 30, 2013

Bielema: Very impressed with Austin Tate. He's got that senior maturity.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 30, 2013

Biggest who was that? RB Patrick Arinze 8 carries, 34 yds. Bigger thighs/legs than previous No. 33 Dennis Johnson
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) March 30, 2013

Here's the short story from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE - The University of Arkansas football team continued spring practice on Saturday with a workout inside Walker Pavilion. The team started the day with practice and then had a scrimmage.

After practice, Arkansas head coach Bret Bielema spoke to the media. He talked about what he was trying to accomplish during the week of practice and the scrimmage.

"It was good to play tackle football for the first time today," Coach Bielema said. "We want to play a physical style of football, and that all starts with today. I like how our defense was aggressive up front, and I was very impressed with some of the plays our guys made in the back end."

Coach Bielema also talked about his roster, and the adjustments the staff has made during the first week of practice after spring break. Coach Bielema was also excited about the play of both the offensive and defensive line.

"The offensive line has a great attitude," Coach Bielema said. "They are very coachable, and have responded very well. They have a sense of pride and have really bought in. Our defensive line is also very gifted and very physical."

Practice continues this week with workouts scheduled for Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Arkansas' spring practices culminate in the Red-White Spring Game, sponsored by Cox, on April 20 at 2 p.m. inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Admission to the game is free.

Arkansas Football Spring Practice Update: 3/28

Arkansas Expats — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 02:03:43 -0000

Practice #5 on the books and had good tempo all day. Introduced 3rd packages and will scrimmage first time live on Saturday! #bigboyfootball
— Bret Bielema (@BretBielema) March 28, 2013

DC Chris Ash said safety Defonta Lowe is not with the team. He wouldn't elaborate on his absence.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 28, 2013

Ash: Myke Tavarres has a long way to go to learn the fundamentals he needs at this level. But he's coachable and he works hard.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 28, 2013

Ark LB @myket14 Tavarres is animated. On @rls2294 Randy Shannon coming on board he said, "I kind of like freaked out like a little girl."
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) March 28, 2013

Chris Ash: on Sleepy McKinney "We're just trying to evaluate and see where he can help us. Good height, long arms and legs and he can run.
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) March 28, 2013

Ash: "We've gone very slow with our installation." He said it's not about volume this spring, but being good at what is thrown at them.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 28, 2013

Ash: The defensive line is probably going to be one of the strongest position groups on the team.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 28, 2013

Ash: I've been very pleased with the safeties... We talk about safeties being the generals of the defense, and they have done that so far.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 28, 2013

Ash on Randy Shannon: "I wanted Randy Shannon because he’s a great teacher. He’s a great coach, great mentor for those young linebackers."
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 28, 2013

Ash says he emphasizes effort, alignments, and finishing in live tackling situations.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 28, 2013

Ash: The depth chart is a work in progress. It changes everyday... It's about guys that we can trust to be in the right spots consistently.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 28, 2013

Here's the report from UA:

Fayetteville – The University of Arkansas football team continued spring practice Thursday afternoon inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

After practice defensive coordinator and secondary coach Chris Ash spoke with the media about how this week’s practices have been going.

"This week we are getting better," Coach Ash said. "We just finished practice five and I have seen a lot of improvement each day we go out there. We are really stressing daily improvement and I think they are following."

Coach Ash also commented on things that the coaches are really trying to emphasize during the spring season with the defense.

"One, if we are going to get better on defense, it will start with the effort that we play with," Coach Ash said. "Every day we go out there the number one thing that we are trying to coach and critique is the effort. We are also making sure that our alignments are correct and consistent. If we don’t have mental errors and beat ourself we will have a chance to win some more games and be a lot better team on defense."

Arkansas Football Spring Practice Update - 3/26

Arkansas Expats — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:53:36 -0000

Chaney: Brandon Allen and Brandon Mitchell are both running first team...the competition between them is good
— Nicole Muracco (@5NEWSNicole) March 26, 2013

Chaney: We were a little rusty today. Made a few decisions with the ball that weren't great.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 26, 2013

B. Mitchell on returning to QB competition after year at WR: "I knew what I was doing last year. I knew what was going to happen this year."
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 27, 2013

Brandon Allen on QB competition: "Everyone wants to be the No. 1 guy. That just fuels me to try to keep my game on top of everybody else’s."
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 27, 2013

J-Will after today's practice. twitter.com/DannyWest1/sta…
— Danny West (@DannyWest1) March 26, 2013

Jim Chaney said RB Jonathan Williams is "a little loose with the football," but is working on it.
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 26, 2013

Just did media Q&A with OC @coachjimchaney, RBs coach @coachjoelt and multiple off. Razorbacks. I like this staff and players were upbeat
— Thomas Murphy (@TomMurphyADG) March 26, 2013

Offensive coordinator Jim Chaney said C Travis Swanson brain is "working faster than I can think. He's ike a professor out there."
— Robbie Neiswanger (@NWARobbie) March 26, 2013

Chaney: I like Kiero Small. He rolls. He plays hard every day.
— Bo Mattingly (@SportsTalkwBo) March 26, 2013

Here's the recap from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE - The University of Arkansas football team continued spring practice Tuesday with a workout inside Walker Pavilion.

After practice, Arkansas offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Jim Chaney spoke to the media. He talked about the players' attitude in spring practice thus far.

"The attitude has been awesome," Coach Chaney said. "These guys are working hard. They are listening and responding. They are asking good questions and I enjoy being around them."

Chaney also talked about the team's work ethic on the practice field.

"There are players that have great motors," Coach Chaney said. "They go out and play hard. It is fun to see how they attack the game. You want to surround yourself with as many of those kids as you can possibly get.

Practice continues this week with workouts scheduled for Thursday and Saturday. Arkansas' spring practices culminate in the Red-White Spring Game, sponsored by Cox, on April 20 at 2 p.m. inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Admission to the game is free.

Arkansas Baseball Loses Sunday Finale To Ole Miss In 13 Innings, Drops Series 2-1

Arkansas Expats — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 15:19:39 -0000

The teams traded comfortable wins Friday and Saturday, but the Sunday game was tight throughout before ending due to fielding errors in the 13th inning.

Here's the recap of the finale from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE – The No. 15 Arkansas baseball team dropped a hard fought series finale to No. 8 Ole Miss, 6-4, on Sunday afternoon at Baum Stadium.

The Rebels take two out of three games in the series and improve to 20-2 overall and 2-1 in SEC play. Arkansas drops to 14-7 overall and 1-2 in league play.

With the game tied at four entering the 13th inning, Ole Miss put together a two-run rally without the benefit of a hit to win the game. Tanner Mathis drew a leadoff walk. Auston Bousfield then laid down a sacrifice bunt in front the plate. Jake Wise attempted to throw out Mathis at second, but the throw was low and couldn’t be handled by shortstop Brian Anderson for an E2 to put runners on first and second. Austin Anderson then laid down a sacrifice bunt up the third base line. Brandon Moore fielded the bunt and threw the ball down the right field line, allowing Mathis to score and advancing Bousfield to third. A sacrifice fly off the bat of Stuart Turner drove home Bousfield with the Rebels’ second run of the inning.

Arkansas was unable to get anything going in the bottom of the 13th against Ole Miss closer Brett Huber as the Rebels hung on for the 6-4 win in the series clincher.

Arkansas out-hit the Rebels 10-9 in the game. Matt Vinson had a team-high three hits with a run scored, whileJoe Serrano and Jake Wise each had two hits. Serrano drove in two runs and had a run scored, while Wise also added a RBI.

Along with his strong performance at the plate, Vinson also made an outstanding diving catch down the left field line. Anderson hit a fly ball down the left field line. Vinson raced over to the line and made a diving headlong grab, sliding into foul territory as he made the grab.

For Ole Miss at the plate, Will Allen had three hits and drove in a run. Turner added a pair of RBI, while Sikes Orvis was 2-for-4 in the contest.

Ole Miss reliever Brett Huber (2-0) earned the win. Huber struck out one and retired each batter he faced in 1.2 innings of work.

Moore (1-2) took the loss out of the Arkansas bullpen. The right hander gave up two unearned runs on just one hit over four innings.

Neither starter factored into the decision. Arkansas starter Ryne Stanek gave up three runs, just one earned, on four hits with four strikeouts in 4.2 innings. Ole Miss starter Sam Smith gave up a run on three hits in five innings.

After a scoreless first three innings, Ole Miss struck first with two runs in the fourth inning. Turner reached on a fielding error by Brett McAfee to start the frame. A walk to Andrew Mistone put runners on first and second. After a strikeout of Orvis, Allen doubled over Vinson’s head in left field, scoring Turner with the game’s first run. A sacrifice fly to center off the bat of Will Jamison plated Mistone to put Ole Miss up 2-0.

Arkansas answered with a run in the bottom of the fourth. Serrano started the inning with a single. With two out, Vinson lined a single to center to put runners on first and second. Wise then grounded a hit into left field, plating Serrano from second.

Ole Miss regained a two-run lead in the top of the fifth on a RBI single to center field by Turner, scoring Mathis.

The Razorbacks took their first lead of the day with three runs in the seventh. With the bases loaded and nobody out, Jacob Morris blooped a single into left field, scoring Vinson. After the next two batters were retired, Serrano came through with a clutch two-RBI single just over the head of the Ole Miss shortstop to score two runs and put Arkansas in front 4-3.

The lead was short-lived however as Ole Miss tied the game with a run in the eighth on a bases loaded walk to Lance Wilson. The walk to Wilson was the last run either team would score until Ole Miss broke through in the top of the 13th.

The Arkansas baseball team continues SEC play next weekend at No. 6 South Carolina. Game times for the weekend series are scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Friday, 2:15 p.m. on Saturday and 12:30 p.m. on Sunday.

Arkansas Baseball Sweeps 4 Game Series Against San Diego State

Arkansas Expats — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 18:50:48 -0000

The most dramatic win was the second game on Friday, as the Hogs won via walk-off home run by Joe Serrano. With the game tied at 3 in the bottom of the ninth and with two outs, the sophomore outfielder knocked a pitch over the left-center wall to give Arkansas the 4-3 victory.

Here are the recaps of Saturday's double header from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Arkansas head coach Dave Van Horn earned his 1,000th career win on Saturday as No. 19 Arkansas swept a doubleheader vs. San Diego State at Baum Stadium. The Razorbacks won game one of the doubleheader, 8-2, and completed the sweep with a 4-1 win in the nightcap.

With the doubleheader sweep, the Razorbacks won all four games of their weekend series vs. San Diego State. Arkansas improves to 11-5 with the twinbill sweep, while San Diego State dropped to 7-9 with the pair of losses.

Coach Van Horn reached a major career milestone with the win in the first game of the doubleheader. Coach Van Horn earned his 1,000th career victory in Arkansas’ 8-2 victory. The Razorback skipper now has a career record of 1,001-468 in 25 years of coaching, while his record at the UA is 416-228.

Tyler Spoon had a hit in each game of the doubleheader to extend his hitting streak to 16 games. Spoon went 3-for-4 with a homer, two RBI and two runs scored in the first game and 1-for-4 in the second game. Jacob Mahan went 4-for-6 in the doubleheader with a RBI and a run scored, while Eric Fisher went 3-for-7 with a RBI and two runs scored.

Game 1 Recap: Killian tosses seven no hit innings as Arkansas wins 8-2

Freshman right hander Trey Killian worked seven no hit innings and struck out seven as Arkansas defeated San Diego State, 8-2, in the first game of Saturday’s doubleheader.

Killian (2-1) was outstanding on the mound en route to earning his second win of the season. Killian opened the game by retiring the first 17 batters he faced until a two-out walk in the top of the sixth. In the seventh, Killian had a runner reach via an error, but he induced a 4-6-3 double play from the next batter and then struck out the last batter of the seventh to keep the no hitter intact. He left after the seventh, striking out seven and just issuing the one walk in seven innings.

Tyler Wright retired both batters he faced in the top of the ninth, including one strikeout.

San Diego State starter Ryan Doran (2-2) took the loss, giving up three runs on eight hits and striking out two in five innings.

At the plate, Arkansas recorded 12 hits, its most hits in a game since the Razorbacks had 15 hits in the series finale vs. Evansville on Feb. 24. Four different players had multiple hits in the game, led by Jacob Mahan and Tyler Spoon, who each had three hits. Mahan was a perfect 3-for-3 at the plate with a RBI and a run scored, while Spoon was 3-for-4 with his third homer of the season, two RBI and two runs scored. Brian Anderson went 2-for-4 with two RBI, while Eric Fisher also had two hits and scored a run.

San Diego State managed just two hits in the game. Tim Zier had a hit and a RBI, while Mitch Bluman also added a hit.

Arkansas struck first with two runs in the bottom of the second. With one out, Fisher doubled to the right-center field gap and he advanced to third on a ground out by Jordan Farris. Brett McAfee drove home Fisher with an RBI infield single. Mahan then sliced a double down the left field line and into the corner, scoring McAfee from first base to put the Razorbacks on top 2-0.

The Razorbacks added another run in the bottom of the fifth when Spoon led off the inning with his third homer of the season, a solo blast over the wall in left field.

Arkansas broke the game open with five runs in the bottom of the sixth. Farris drew a leadoff walk. McAfee laid down a sacrifice bunt, but the third baseman couldn’t field it, allowing McAfee to reach on an E5. Farris was able to take third on the play when the Aztecs failed to cover the bag after the error. A walk to Mahan loaded the bases for Joe Serrano, who was hit by a pitch to make the score 4-0. Spoon then grounded a single into left field to score McAfee and keep the bases loaded for Anderson, who followed with a two-RBI single to center field to stretch the lead to 7-0. Jake Wise closed the scoring in the inning with a sacrifice fly to right field, scoring Spoon.

The Aztecs didn’t manage their first hit in the game until one out in the top of the eighth when Bluman singled to right field off Colby Suggs. San Diego State would avoid the shutout by scoring twice in the top of the ninth on a RBI single by Zier and a RBI groundout by Justin Gheorghe.

Game 2 Recap: Four-run seventh lifts Arkansas to doubleheader sweep

Arkansas broke a scoreless tie with four runs in the bottom of the seventh as the Razorbacks defeated San Diego State, 4-1, in the second game of Saturday’s doubleheader.

Randall Fant, Michael Gunn and Barrett Astin combined to allow just one run on seven hits in the contest. Michael Gunn (1-0) earned his first win of the season, retiring all three batters he faced in his one inning of relief.

Randall Fant started on the mound for the Razorbacks and pitched well, tossing six shutout innings and giving up four hits with three strikeouts. Barrett Astin closed the game by giving up a run on three hits and striking out a pair in two innings.

San Diego State reliever Bubba Derby (1-1) took the loss after allowing four runs on five hits in 1.2 innings. Aztec starter Ethan Miller threw six scoreless innings and struck out five, but received a no decision.

Along with earning the win, Gunn also reached base all three times at the plate, going 2-for-2 and also drawing a walk. Jacob Morris had a two-RBI triple and scored a run, while Eric Fisher and Brett McAfee also had a RBI in the victory.

Danny Sheehan had two hits and drove in a run to lead the Aztecs offensively. John Spirk added a hit and scored a run.

Neither team was able to get much going offensively until the bottom of the seventh, when Arkansas broke through with four runs. With one out, Gunn walked and Jake Wise singled to right to put runners on first and second. Fisher then lined a single to center field, scoring Matt Vinson, who had pinch ran for Gunn, from second base and advancing Wise to third. Fisher was able to take second on the throw to the plate. Morris then ripped a triple into the left-center field alley, scoring both Wise and Fisher to make the score 3-0. McAfee then laid down a perfect safety squeeze bunt back to the pitcher. The SDSU pitcher attempted to bare hand the ball and throw home, but he was unable to make the play as Morris was safe at home and McAfee reached on an infield bunt single.

San Diego State didn’t go quietly in the ninth, scoring a run and getting the tying run to the plate. Spirk led off the inning with a single to right and then stole second with one out. Jake Romanski lined a single to center field to advance Spirk to third. Sheehan drove in a run with a single to right-center to trim the lead to 4-1. With Tyler France at the plate as the tying run, Astin induced a 6-4-3 double play to end the game and give Arkansas the series sweep.

Arkansas continues its nine-game homestand on Tuesday and Wednesday as it faces Alabama A&M in a two-game series. Tuesday’s game is set for a 6:35 p.m. start, while first pitch for Wednesday’s game is at 3:05 p.m. Tickets for both games are available by visiting the online ticket center at ArkansasRazorbacks.com, calling 1-800-982-HOGS (4647) or on gameday at Baum Stadium, while supplies last.

Arkansas Men's Indoor Track and Field Team Wins National Championship

Arkansas Expats — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 03:42:51 -0000

FAYETTEVILLE – The No. 1 University of Arkansas men’s track and field team won the 2013 NCAA Indoor Championships in front of its home fans Saturday evening at the Randal Tyson Track Center in Fayetteville. The win gives the Razorbacks their 20th NCAA indoor team title and 41st national crown overall. Saturday’s victory is Arkansas’ first NCAA win since 2006, and the program’s first under head coach Chris Bucknam.

Arkansas’ winning total of 74 points is the most by any team since the Razorbacks scored 94 points on their way to the 1994 title. The Razorbacks have now won five of their 20 NCAA indoor titles in Fayetteville. Arkansas previously hoisted the first-place trophy in their home facility at the 2000, 2003, 2005 and 2006 national meets.

The Razorbacks won two national event titles Saturday, including a collegiate-record performance by the team’s 4x400-meter relay and a school-record effort from Kevin Lazas in the heptathlon. Over the course of the two-day NCAA meet, Arkansas collected three titles with Andrew Irwin’s victory in the pole vault Friday evening. In addition to increasing the program’s team-title haul, the Razorbacks now have 58 NCAA event titles.

“To get this done, you need a special group of athletes,” Bucknam said. “The coaching staff had everything in place. I’m really proud of how these guys got it together. We followed the plan, and we came in here and got it done. We just hope our alumni are proud. We look at all the national championship banners in the ceiling, and our number one goal was to make them proud and show them that we were back. With the 4x400-meter relay, we just wanted to finish it off right, and we got that collegiate record this time.”

In the final event of the weekend, the Razorbacks’ 4x400-meter relay team of Neil Braddy, Caleb Cross, Akheem Gauntlett and Marek Niit combined for an NCAA-record time of 3:03.50, just dipping below the old mark of 3:03.51 set in 2005 by a Florida team that included world-record holder Kerron Clement. Last year, the team of Braddy, Gauntlett, Niit and Ben Skidmore ran the second-fastest—now No. 3—time by a collegiate relay team.

For the second time this weekend, the Razorbacks successfully defended an NCAA title. Arkansas was the reigning national event champion with its performance last season in Nampa, Idaho. With Saturday’s result, the program now has two NCAA titles in the 4x400-meter relay.

The Razorbacks entered the relay event with the team title already clinched by way of a runner-up finish from junior transfer Kemoy Campbell at 3,000 meters. The long-distance standout put on a late push to post a time of 7:46.95. Originally award third place, Campbell’s finish was elevated to runner-up status when the runner that finish just ahead of him, Eric Jenkins of Northeastern, was later DQ’d.

The 3K performance added eight points to the team’s overall total and gave the Razorbacks an insurmountable 13-point lead heading into the 4x400-meter relay. Campbell began the week as the No. 17 national entry at 3,000 meters and only competed in the race because two runners ahead of him on the qualifying list scratched. In Saturday’s field of 16, the Manchester, Jamaica, native entered with the 15th-fastest time but far surpassed his seeding.

The team’s first points of the day came from the win by Lazas in the heptathlon. With Saturday’s performance, Lazas improved upon his own school record which he first established earlier this year at the Razorback Team Invitational. His score of 6,175 makes Lazas the No. 3 scorer in collegiate history and represents the No. 4 all-time collegiate score. Lazas, who entered the weekend with a lifetime best of 6,042, set personal bests in four of seven events this weekend.

“I gave it all that I had,” Lazas said. “If I didn’t win I would have been mad, but there’s nothing I could have done. I didn’t have anything left, I gave it my all. I ran every step of the race; I even fell at the finish line. I was hurting so when the scores came up, I got a spark of energy and cheered for a little bit then just laid back down. I gave it my all and would have been a little upset if I didn’t win, but overall I am really satisfied.”

Lazas began day two of the heptathlon with a personal-best performance in the 60-meter hurdles. Running in the second of four sections, the Razorback junior clocked in at 8.27 to add 915 points to his overall total. The Brentwood, Tenn., native extended his lead with a final clearance of 5.40m/17-8.5 in the pole vault and took a 50-point lead over Japheth Cato of Wisconsin.

His lead equated a lead of approximately 4.5 seconds in the 1,000 meters. Lazas gutted out a time of 2:49.00, within the allowable cushion behind Cato who finished in 2:45.26. When the scores flashed on the scoreboard, Lazas had clinched his first NCAA event title by 10 points, the smallest margin of victory in the event since it was introduced to NCAA competition in 2004.

Just before the final of the 3,000 meters, senior Tarik Batchelor collected six points with a third-place finish in the triple jump. Having posted a pair of fouls on his first two attempts, Batchelor responded with a qualifying mark on his third pass down the runway to advance to the final. He finished with a best measure of 16.44m/53-11.25. Arkansas picked up another field point from an eighth-place finish by Anthony May II in the high jump where he equaled his lifetime best with a final clearance of 2.23m/7-3.75.

Arkansas first points of the day on the track came from Anton Kokorin at 400 meters. The Razorback senior finished sixth overall in the two-section final with a personal-best time of 46.14, good for three points toward the team title. Kokorin entered the weekend as the 12th-fastest qualifier in the field of 16. The Razorbacks also picked up five points from its pair of runners at 800 meters. In his NCAA final debut, Tomas Squella was the team’s top performer with a sixth-place finish in 1:49.20. Patrick Rono followed in seventh at 1:50.84.

This weekend marks the 11th national indoor hosting duties for Arkansas. The program first welcomed the NCAA meet in 2000 and remained the host through the 2008 season. Prior to this year, the last time the Razorbacks hosted was 2010. A tape-delay broadcast of the national meet will air March 17 at 6 p.m. on ESPNU. Keep up with Arkansas cross country and track and field with the team’s RazorbackTF Facebook and Twitter pages.

Saturday Results

Team Standings (top 10)
1. ARKANSAS – 74 points
2. Florida – 59
3. Wisconsin – 33
4. Texas A&M – 30
5. Texas Tech – 28
6. Oregon – 22
6. Arizona – 22
8. Oklahoma State – 20
9. Three tied with 19

Individual Events
400 Meters
5. Anton Kokorin – 46.09 (PR – prev: 46.14) [4 points]

800 Meters
6. Tomas Squella – 1:49.20 [3 points]
7. Patrick Rono – 1:50.84 [2]

3,000 Meters
2. Kemoy Campbell – 7:46.95 [8 points]

4x400m Relay
1. Niit/Braddy/Cross/Gauntlett – 3:03.50 (CR – prev: 3:03.51, Florida, 2005) [10 points]

High Jump
8. Anthony May II – 2.23m/7-3.75 (t-PR) [1 point]

Triple Jump
3. Tarik Batchelor – 16.44m/53-11.25 [6 points]
15. Anthony May II – 15.43m/50-7.5

Heptathlon (Final)
1. Kevin Lazas – 6,175 points (SR – prev: 6,042) [10 points]
7. 60m Hurdles – 8.27 (PR – prev: 8.35) [915 points]
1. Pole Vault – 5.40m/17-8.5 [1,035]
10. 1,000 Meters – 2:49.00 [776]

CR – collegiate record; SR – school record

Fayetteville Casting Call Information for the Brandon Burlsworth Movie

Arkansas Expats — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 19:54:26 -0000

Morgan Casting is excited to hold two days of casting for the upcoming film, Greater (the Brandon Burlsworth story)!

This casting is open to all.

We need lots of local talent to fill many roles, plus tons of extras and true Razorback fans! Come on down and see us for a few quick photos and perhaps read a line or two! It’s 100% free and nothing to lose! We would love to see you there for one of our 2 days of local casting in Fayetteville, Arkansas!

Northwest Arkansas Mall

4201 N Shiloh Dr, Fayetteville, AR 72703

Friday, March 15th from 12pm to 8pm

Saturday, March 16th from 10am until 6pm!

We need REAL FOOTBALL players and teams (6th or 7th grade teams/players, high school teams/players; college & NFL players).

We need high school cheerleading squads & college cheerleading squads!

We need real people to portray fans, referees, football team staff, police officers, construction workers, a church congregation, and other roles.

Open to all ages and ethnicities.

Please be sure to bring a photo that you can leave with us with your name, age, phone, email and city in which you live on the back. We’ll take a few quick photos of you as well. Easy as that! We look forward to seeing y’all there!

For updates & more details: www.facebook.com/morgancastinginc

Brandon Burlsworth and Leotis Harris On Ballot For College Football Hall of Fame

Arkansas Expats — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 17:34:25 -0000

Release from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE - Former Razorbacks Brandon Burlsworth and Leotis Harris are candidates for the 2013 College Football Hall of Fame Class, it was announced Tuesday.

"We are pleased that Brandon and Leotis has been selected for the College Football Hall of Fame ballot," Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Jeff Long said. "It is a tribute to their outstanding careers and the tradition of Razorback Football that the University of Arkansas has two student-athletes among only 77 players eligible for induction. Not only were Brandon and Leotis tremendous football players, their personal stories and success continue to serve as an inspiration to all Razorback student-athletes."

Burlsworth came to Arkansas as a walk-on in 1994 and was named a first-team All-American by Football News and a second-team All-American by the Associated Press as a senior in 1998. He was the first Razorback football student-athlete to earn a master's degree before his eligibility expired and is one of two, along with 1948 Olympic silver medalist Clyde Scott, football Razorbacks to have their number retired. Following his collegiate career, Burlsworth was taken in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts but was killed in an automobile accident near his home in Harrison, Ark., before training camp. His legacy continues to be celebrated through the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, an organization dedicated to assisting children, and the Burlsworth Trophy, which has been awarded since 2010 to the nation's top player who began his career as a walk-on.

Harris was a mainstay on the Arkansas offensive line from 1974-77, literally paving the way for some of the most prolific offenses in school history as well as for future Razorbacks. From his offensive guard spot, he was the first African-American Razorback football player to receive All-America honors, a recognition earned in 1977 after Arkansas posted an 11-1 record. He also was a first-team All-Southwest Conference selection that season as the Razorbacks piled up 412.9 yards of total offense per game, including 273.7 rushing. In his sophomore season, he helped Arkansas average a school-record 320.3 rushing yards per game and win a share of the SWC championship. He was named to the Razorback All-Century Team and the 1970s All-Decade Team selected in 1994 as part of the UA football centennial celebration. He was a sixth-round draft pick by Green Bay in 1978 and appeared in 74 games over six seasons with the Packers.

The 2013 College Football Hall of Fame Class will be announced May 7 live from the NASDAQ MarketSite in New York City from the candidate group of 77 players and five coaches. The College Football Hall of Fame ballot will be mailed this week to the more than 12,000 National Football Foundation members and current Hall of Famers whose votes will be tabulated and submitted to the NFF's Honors Court, which deliberates and selects the class. Chaired by Gene Corrigan, a former ACC Commissioner and NCAA president, the 14-member NFF Honors Court includes an elite and geographically diverse pool of athletics directors, conference commissioners, Hall of Famers and members of the media.

The Razorbacks have had 18 former student-athletes or coaches inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, including Scott, Frank Broyles, Lance Alworth, Barry Switzer, Lou Holtz, Ronnie Caveness and Jimmy Johnson.

Arkansas Baseball Loses To Pacific, Goes 0-4 In Arizona

Arkansas Expats — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 21:23:53 -0000

It's a really long season, and there's still plenty of time to get better, but clearly the Hogs are not where we thought they'd be right now. In the four games in the Coca-Cola Classic, Arkansas scored 6 runs, lost twice to Arizona State, once to Pacific, and once to Gonzaga.

Ouch.

Here's the recap of the last game from UA:

SURPRISE, Ariz. – Pacific scored three runs in the bottom of the ninth, capped by a walk-off single from Eric Lockwood, to defeat Arkansas, 4-3, on Sunday afternoon at the Surprise Recreation Complex.

The Razorbacks are now 7-5 on the season, while Pacific improves to 4-6 with the win.

With the Razorbacks ahead 3-1 in the bottom of the ninth, the Tigers put together a three-run rally to claim the win. With one out, Jason Taasaas and Tyler Sullivan hit back-to-back singles to put runners on first and second. After a strikeout of Taylor Murphy for the second out of the inning, Brett Sullivan singled into right to score Taasaas and send Tyler Sullivan to third. J.J. Wagner then hit a grounder to short, but it was booted by Brett McAfee, allowing Tyler Sullivan to score and advancing Brett Sullivan to second. Dustin Torchio was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Lockwood then hit a 3-2 pitch up the middle to score Tyler Sullivan with the game-winning run.

McAfee and Tyler Spoon each had two hits and a RBI to lead the Razorbacks at the plate. Spoon extended his hitting streak to 12 straight games with his two hits. Brian Anderson also added a hit and a RBI in the loss.

Brett Sullivan and Taasaas had three hits for Pacific. Sullivan drove in a run and scored twice. Torchio and Lockwood also had a RBI.

Pacific reliever Kevin Hammann (1-0) earned his first win of the season. Hammann struck out the only batter he faced in the top of the ninth.

Arkansas reliever Brandon Moore (1-1) took the loss. Moore allowed three runs, only one earned, on four hits and struck out one in an inning of work.

Neither starter factored into the decision. Arkansas starter Randall Fant gave up a run on four hits and struck out five in four innings. Pacific starter Michael Benson tossed eight innings, allowing two runs on eight hits and striking out three.

Arkansas struck first, scoring a run in the top of the first. Matt Vinson led off the game with a triple to the right-center field alley. With one out, Spoon hit a sacrifice fly to right to score Vinson with the game’s first run.

Pacific answered back with a run in the bottom of the first. Brett Sullivan doubled to start the inning. A sacrifice bunt from Wagner advanced Sullivan to third and he scored on a RBI groundout to second by Torchio.

The Razorbacks regained the lead in the top of the sixth. Spoon and Michael Gunn started the inning with back-to-back singles. A wild pitch moved each runner up a base and a sacrifice fly from Anderson scored Spoon from third base to put Arkansas in front 2-1.

Arkansas added another run in the top of the ninth. Eric Fisher was hit by a pitch to lead off the inning and advanced to second on a wild pitch. A ground out to second by Wise moved Fisher to third and he came home to score on a sacrifice fly to right by McAfee to put the Razorbacks in front 3-1.

The Razorbacks open a nine-game homestand next weekend with a four-game series vs. San Diego State. Game times against the Aztecs are set for 6:05 p.m. on Thursday, 3:05 p.m. on Friday, 11:35 a.m. on Saturday and 12:05 p.m. on Sunday.

Arkansas Baseball Sweeps Evansville: The Emergence of Spoon

Arkansas Expats — Sun, 24 Feb 2013 21:57:37 -0000

Here's the story from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE – The Arkansas offense pounded out a season-high 15 hits and scored 10 runs as the top-ranked Razorbacks completed a three-game sweep of Evansville with a 10-2 win on Sunday at Baum Stadium.

Arkansas won its fifth straight game and improved its record to 7-1, while Evansville dropped to 1-5 with the loss.

Eight of Arkansas’ nine position starters had at least one hit in the win with six different players recording two or more hits. Leadoff man Matt Vinson had a game-high three hits and scored three runs. Brian Anderson, Eric Fisher, Brett McAfee, Joe Serrano and Jake Wise each had two hits. Wise drove in three runs, while Anderson had two RBI and scored twice. Jacob Mahan added the first home run of his Razorback career.

Arkansas starter Trey Killian (1-0) earned the win for the first victory of his collegiate career. Killian allowed two unearned runs on two hits and struck out five in 4.2 innings.

Four Razorback relievers combined to throw 4.1 shutout innings. Colin Poche worked 2.1 scoreless frames with a strikeout, while Landon Simpson retired all three batters he faced in an inning. Tyler Wright worked 0.2 scoreless innings, while Thomas Altimont retired the only batter he faced to finish the game.

Evansville starter Kyle Lloyd (0-1) took the loss. Lloyd allowed four runs on eight hits and struck out three in six innings.

The Purple Aces had just three hits in the loss. Jason Hockemeyer, Andy Lasher and Chris Pearson each had a hit. Pearson and Shain Showers each added a RBI.

The Razorbacks struck first with two runs in the bottom of the first. Vinson and Serrano drew back-to-back walks to start the inning and an infield single by Tyler Spoon loaded the bases. Fisher then blooped a single into right, scoring Vinson and moving each runner up a base. Anderson then hit a smash that was caught by the first baseman, who then doubled off Fisher at first base for the first two out of the innings. Arkansas plated its second run of the inning on a wild pitch, scoring Serrano from third.

Arkansas added another run in the home half of the fourth. Anderson reached on an infield single and advanced to second after a ground out by Mahan. Wise grounded a single into left field to score Anderson from second and put the Razorbacks in front 3-0.

Evansville got back in the game with two runs in the top of the fifth. Hockemeyer singled to start the inning and with one out Lasher hit a grounder to third that was bobbled by Anderson, allowing Lasher to reach and advancing Hockemeyer to second on the fielding error. Pearson put the Purple Aces on the board with a single to left-center field, scoring Hockemeyer and advancing Lasher to third. Showers drove in the second run of the inning with a sacrifice fly to center.

The Razorbacks stretched the lead to two with a run in the bottom of the sixth. With one out, Mahan hit a 1-1 pitch over the right field wall for the first homer of his Arkansas career to put the Razorbacks in front 4-2.

Arkansas broke the game open with a five-run seventh. McAfee doubled to the left-center field gap to start the inning and advanced to third after a single to right by Vinson. Serrano then laid down a perfect bunt single up the first base line, scoring McAfee and advancing Vinson to second base. With one out, Fisher lined a single to right to load the bases for Anderson, who sent the first pitch he saw into left field for a two-run single to stretch the lead to 7-2. After a ground out by Mahan for the second out of the inning, Wise hit a grounder up the third base line that hit off the third base bag and went into left field, scoring Anderson and Fisher for the fourth and fifth runs of the inning.

The Razorbacks tacked on one more run in the eighth. With one out, Vinson singled to left and Serrano walked. Spoon then hit a grounder to second. The second baseman flipped to the shortstop to start a double play, but the shortstop’s throw to first was high, allowing Vinson to score from third on the throwing error and putting Arkansas in front 10-2.

Evansville put two runners on in the ninth, but Altimont got David Patton to fly out to right to end the game and give the Razorbacks a 10-2 win.

Arkansas returns to action on Thursday as it faces No. 20 Arizona State in the Coca-Cola Classic in Surprise, Ariz. First pitch between the Razorbacks and Sun Devils is set for 5 p.m.

Arkansas Baseball Sweeps Doubleheader Against New Orleans

Arkansas Expats — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 03:46:37 -0000

This was expected to be a Tuesday/Wednesday series but was rescheduled as a double header due to expected bad weather on Wednesday night. Here's the recap from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE – The top-ranked Arkansas baseball team posted a pair of shutouts on Tuesday as it swept a doubleheader from New Orleans. The Razorbacks won game one, 14-0, and completed the sweep with a 3-0 victory in game two of the twinbill.

With the two victories, the Razorbacks improve to 4-1, while the Privateers drop to 0-5 with the loss.

Tyler Spoon was Arkansas’ top offensive performer in the doubleheader, going 3-for-8 with a home run, three RBI and two runs scored. Matt Vinson also had three hits and scored a run, while Brian Anderson crossed home plate five times in the two games.

On the mound, six Arkansas pitchers combined to allow five hits in 16 shutout innings. The Razorbacks combined for 15 strikeouts over the two games.

Game 1 Recap

Arkansas put together its best offensive performance of the young season, while Colin Poche and Cade Lynch combined on a one-hit shutout as the Razorbacks defeated New Orleans, 14-0, in a run-rule shortened game.

The Razorbacks scored 10 runs in the first three innings of the game, including a five-run first inning. Eight of Arkansas’ nine starters had at least one hit in the win.

Jacob Mahan drove in a game-high four runs and went 3-for-5, while Tyler Spoon hit the first home run of his collegiate career and went 2-for-5 with three RBI and two runs scored. Willie Schwanke also hit the first home run of his Razorback career and had three RBI and three runs scored. Brian Anderson scored four runs in the win.

On the mound, Poche made his collegiate debut and earned the win. The Flower Mound, Texas, native allowed just one hit and struck out six over his five innings. Lynch finished up the game by striking out three and throwing two shutout frames in his season debut.

New Orleans starter Daniel Martinez took the loss after giving up eight runs on eight hits in 1.2 innings.

At the plate, Dan Perkins managed the only hit of the game for the Privateers.

Arkansas wasted little time jumping on Martinez, putting together a five-run first inning. Vinson led off the inning with a single to left field. With one out, Spoon launched an opposite field home run over the wall in right field to put the Razorbacks in front 2-0. Eric Fisher followed with a single and back-to-back walks to Anderson and Schwanke loaded the bases with one out. Mahan drove in the third run of the inning on a groundout. A wild pitch scored Anderson and a two-out single by Brett McAfee plated Schwanke to close the scoring in the inning.

The Razorbacks continued the onslaught in the bottom of the second. Joe Serrano started the inning with a single and then took second on a wild pitch. Spoon drove in his third run of the game with a line drive single to center field, scoring Serrano. A one-out single by Anderson advanced Spoon to second. After a fly out by Schwanke, Mahan lined a single up the middle to score Spoon. A walk to Wise loaded the bases and a walk to McAfee scored Wise from third.

Arkansas added two more runs in the home half of the third. Serrano reached on a fielding error by the UNO third baseman to begin the inning. With one out, Fisher hit a ground ball to the shortstop, who tried to start a double play, but his throw to second was high and went down the right field line, allowing Fisher to reach and advancing Serrano to third. Anderson was hit by a pitch to load the bases for Schwanke, who drew a walk to score Serrano. Mahan brought home fisher with a RBI single through the right side of the infield to give Arkansas a 10-run lead.

The Razorbacks added two runs in both the fifth and sixth innings. In the fifth, Mahan drove in a run on a RBI groundout and McAfee doubled to left center to score Schwanke. In the sixth, Schwanke launched a two-run homer over the bullpen in right field for the first home run of his collegiate career to close the scoring.

Game 2 Recap

Four Arkansas pitchers combined on a four-hit shutout as the Razorbacks completed a doubleheader sweep of New Orleans with a 3-0 victory.

Landon Simpson started on the mound for his first collegiate appearance and earned the victory, tossing three scoreless innings and allowing three hits. Colby Suggs, Michael Gunn and Jalen Beeks came in in relief of Simpson and preserved the shutout. Suggs tossed a hitless inning, while Gunn was sensational, striking out six and allowing just one hit in four innings. Beeks earned the first save of his Razorback career with a perfect ninth inning.

New Orleans starter Blake Prest took his first loss of the season after giving up a run on five hits and striking out one in five innings.

Matt Vinson had two hits to lead the Razorback offense in the game. Jake Wise drove in two runs and had a hit, while Gunn and Jacob Morris each had a hit and a run scored.

Arkansas got on the scoreboard first with a run in the bottom of the second. With one out, Gunn doubled to the gap in left center and came around to score on a two-out single up the middle by Wise.

The Razorbacks added another run in the bottom of the sixth. Brian Anderson walked to begin the inning and advanced to second on a ground out by Gunn. After Jordan Farris walked, each runner moved up a base on a wild pitch. Wise drove home Anderson with a RBI ground out to short to give Arkansas a 2-0 lead.

Arkansas plated its third run of the game in the seventh. Morris reached on a bunt single with one out and then stole second. Fisher walked with two out to put two runners on base. Morris and Fisher executed a double steal attempt and the throw to second by the UNO catcher went into center field, allowing Morris to score on the play.

Gunn and Beeks pitched the eighth and ninth innings, respectively, to seal the win and give Arkansas a doubleheader sweep.

Arkansas concludes its season-opening home stand this weekend with a three-game series vs. Evansville. Game times are set for 3:05 p.m. on Friday and 1:05 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Single-game tickets are $10 for reserved and $8 for general admission, while season tickets are $190 for adults and $140 for University of Arkansas staff, youth and senior citizens. Tickets may be purchased by calling 1-800-982-HOGS (4647) or by visiting the online ticket center at ArkansasRazorbacks.com.

Arkansas Baseball Loses Finale To Western Illinois But Wins Series

Arkansas Expats — Sun, 17 Feb 2013 23:16:28 -0000

The Leathernecks were very excited.

NECKS WIN NECKS WIN NECKS WIN WIU BASEBALL DEFEATS #1 ARKANSAS 7-5!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
— Leatherneck Baseball (@WIU_Baseball) February 17, 2013

Here's the story from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE – Jameson Henning and Brent Turner each had two hits, while Steve Kedroski drove in two runs as Western Illinois defeated Arkansas, 7-5, on Sunday afternoon at Baum Stadium.

Arkansas, which won two of three games in the series, falls to 2-1 with the loss, while Western Illinois improves its record to 1-2.

Mason Pingel (1-0) got the win on the mound for the Leathernecks, throwing five innings and giving up three runs on seven hits with five strikeouts. Brian Loconsole picked up his first save of the season, tossing 1.2 hitless innings.

Trent Daniel (0-1) suffered the loss, giving up six runs, only three of which were earned, on eight hits and striking out two in 3.1 innings. Brandon Moore came out of the bullpen and pitched well, allowing just one run on one hit with five strikeouts in 5.2 innings.

Joe Serrano and Tyler Spoon each had three hits to lead the Razorbacks at the plate. Spoon drove in two runs and scored twice. Brian Anderson recorded two hits and drove in three runs, while Matt Vinson was 2-for-4 with three runs scored.

Henning and Turner each had two hits and a RBI for the Leathernecks. Kedroski went 1-for-3 with two RBI.

Western Illinois struck first with a pair of runs in the top of the first. Turner led off the game with a single to left and a walk to Dan Dispensa put runners on first and second. Henning then laid down a sacrifice bunt to put runners on second and third. Kedroski plated both runners with a two-RBI single to center field to give the Leathernecks an early lead.

Arkansas quickly answered back, scoring twice in the bottom of the first. Vinson reached on an infield single to start the inning and then moved to second on a wild pitch. After a strikeout of Jacob Morris, Spoon lined a single to center, scoring Vinson. A balk advanced Spoon to second and with two outs, Anderson doubled off the wall in left field to score Spoon with the tying run.

The Leathernecks regained the lead with a run in the top of the second. Zach Burling singled to center to begin the inning and then moved to second on a sacrifice bunt by Turner. With two out, Henning reached on an infield single to third. A passed ball allowed Burling to score WIU’s third run of the game.

Arkansas tied the game for the second time in the bottom of the third. Vinson drew a leadoff walk and advanced to second after a sacrifice bunt by Morris. Spoon recorded his second RBI single of the day with a base hit to left to score Vinson and even the game at three.

Western Illinois took advantage of three Razorback errors to score three runs in the top of the fourth. Erik Maki had a bunt single to start the inning and a sacrifice bunt by Burling advanced Maki to second. Turner then singled to left, scoring Maki. Vinson’s throw to the plate hit off Maki and got away, allowing Turner to advance to second on the throwing error. Dispensa then went to the opposite field and singled to left to put runners on the corners. Henning reached on a fielding error by Anderson at short, which allowed Turner to score and moved Dispensa to second base. The Leathernecks then executed a double steal and catcher Jean Ramirez’s throw to third was high, allowing Dispensa to score on the throwing error and giving the Leathernecks a 6-3 lead.

WIU added an insurance run in the top of the seventh. Henning singled to center field to lead off the inning and advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt by Kedroski. A ground out by Jake Moore to second moved Henning to third. Travis Stafford drew a walk to put runners on the corners. Stafford tried to steal second, but was caught in a rundown between first and second. However, during the run down, Henning scored from third to make the score 7-3.

Arkansas trimmed into the lead with two runs in the bottom of the seventh. Vinson singled to right field to start the inning and advanced to second on a wild pitch. With one out, Spoon walked to put runners on the first and second. McAfee moved both runners to scoring position on a ground out to short. Anderson drove home both runners with a double to center field to cut the lead to 7-5.

The Razorbacks were able to put a runner on base in both the eighth and ninth innings, but couldn’t get any closer as the Leathernecks held on for a 7-5 win.

Arkansas and New Orleans open a two-game series on Tuesday with first pitch at 3:05 p.m. Single-game and season tickets are available for the 2013 Razorback baseball season. Single-game tickets are $10 for reserved and $8 for general admission, while season tickets are $190 for adults and $140 for University of Arkansas staff, youth and senior citizens. Tickets may be purchased by calling 1-800-982-HOGS (4647) or by visiting the online ticket center at ArkansasRazorbacks.com.

Arkansas 9, Western Illinois 1: And Off We Go

Arkansas Expats — Sat, 16 Feb 2013 02:44:01 -0000

Here's the recap from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE – Eric Fisher went 2-for-4 with three RBI, including his first collegiate home run, while Ryne Stanek, Trey Killian and Tyler Wright combined to allow just one run on three hits as No. 1 Arkansas defeated Western Illinois, 9-1, in the 2013 season opener on Friday at Baum Stadium.

Eight of Arkansas’ nine starters recorded at least one hit for the Razorbacks with three different players having two hits each. Fisher led the way at the plate, driving in three runs on a pair of hits. Fisher had a two-RBI single in the bottom of the first and followed that up with a solo home run, the first of his collegiate career, in the bottom of the third. Brian Anderson reached base all five times he was at the plate, going 2-for-2 with a RBI and drawing three walks. Jacob Mahan was also a perfect 2-for-2 at the plate, with an RBI and a run scored. Jacob Morris reached base four times, drawing three walks and going 1-for-2 with two runs scored.

Ryne Stanek started and picked up the win in his season debut, throwing four innings and allowing a run on two hits with four strikeouts. Freshman Trey Killian made his collegiate debut in relief of Stanek and retired all nine batters he faced with one strikeout. Tyler Wright closed out the victory with three strikeouts in two innings.

Western Illinois starter Nick Smith was saddled with the loss after giving up seven runs on seven hits with six walks in three innings.

The Leathernecks had three hits in the loss. Dan Dispensa hit his first home run of the season, while Manny Reyes and Matt Risdon also contributed a hit each.

Arkansas jumped out to an early lead with a pair of runs in the bottom of the first. Matt Vinson and Morris walked to begin the frame and a sacrifice bunt by Tyler Spoon moved each runner into scoring position. Fisher brought home bought runners with a single into right to give the Razorbacks a 2-0 edge.

The Razorbacks broke the game open with a five-run rally in the home half of the third. Fisher took the third pitch of the inning over the right field wall and into the visitor’s bullpen to stretch the lead to 3-0. Anderson then walked and stole second, while Willie Schwanke walked to put runners on first and second. A bunt single by Jake Wiseloaded the bases for Mahan, who ripped a single up the middle, scoring Anderson. Brett McAfee brought home Arkansas’ fifth run of the game with a sacrifice fly to right. An RBI single by Vinson to center field allowed Wise to trot home and make the score 6-0. After a walk to Morris loaded the bases again, Spoon drove in a RBI on a fielder’s choice to stretch the lead to 7-0.

The Leathernecks got on the board in the top of the fourth as Dispensa led off the inning with an opposite field home run to left field to cut the lead to 7-1.

Arkansas answered back in the bottom of the fifth with a run. Morris reached on an infield single to lead off the inning and then advanced to single on a single to left field by Spoon. After Fisher flied out to left, Morris stole third to put runners on the corners. Spoon was then picked off of first base for the second out, but Morris was able to score during the run down to make the lead 8-1.

The Razorbacks closed the scoring with a run in the bottom of the seventh. With one out, Spoon walked and then came around to score on Anderson’s two-out triple to center field to make the score 9-1.

The Razorbacks and Leathernecks continue the three-game series on Saturday with first pitch set for 12:05 p.m. Junior right hander Barrett Astin (3-5, 1.99) will start for Arkansas, while Western Illinois will counter with sophomore righty Tyler Willman (1-1, 7.71). Single-game tickets for Saturday’s game are $10 for reserved seats and $8 for general admission and may be purchased on gameday at the Baum Stadium ticket office.

Michael Smith Named Arkansas Wide Receivers Coach

Arkansas Expats — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 03:27:23 -0000

Noted as one of the top recruiters in the Big 12, which basically means he has lots of Texas connections. He's also from New Orleans and has strong ties there as well, and anybody who can bring a bit of NOLA to Arkansas is fine by me.

Here's the press release from UA:

FAYETTEVILLE - Michael Smith, a record-setting receiver at Kansas State who went on to earn a reputation as one of the best recruiters in college football, has been named Arkansas' wide receivers coach, head coach Bret Bielema announced Thursday.

"During my two seasons at Kansas State, I learned that Michael Smith is one of the masters of the fundamentals of the game," Coach Bielema said. "As a player, he was part of building the foundation at Kansas State and as a coach he played an instrumental part in one of the greatest turnarounds for a program in the history of college football. He has a proven track record of leading his student-athletes to reach their full potential. He is also a tremendous recruiter who has very strong ties in his hometown of New Orleans. When I came to Arkansas, I said I wanted to assemble a staff second to none. The administration has shown tremendous support of that goal and Michael Smith completes the group in exciting fashion. Our staff is made up of individuals who have earned respect within the profession and should generate excitement for our program."

Smith, who was named one of the top 10 recruiters in the Big 12 Conference in 2012 by Rivals, spent the first 11 years of his coaching career at Kansas State and was the running backs coach at Rice in 2006 before moving to Arizona for the 2007 and 2008 seasons, coaching running backs his first season before moving to coach inside receivers. He returned to Kansas State in 2009 as the Wildcats' wide receivers coach.

The 2012 season saw Kansas State capture their second Big 12 title and play in the Fiesta Bowl as the Wildcats posted an 11-2 record and finished the year ranked No. 12 in the AP poll. Chris Harper led the Wildcats with 58 receptions for 857 yards and three touchdowns and earned second-team All-Big 12 honors. In 2011, true freshman Tyler Lockett earned All-America honors as a kick returner and made an immediate impact at the wide receiver position. He set the Big 12 and Kansas State single-season record for kickoff-return average at 35.2 yards per return.

In 2010, Smith tutored a wide receiver group that featured numerous players stepping up and contributing throughout a season that saw several injuries at the position. Aubrey Quarles provided the most consistency throughout 2010 en route to All-Big 12 honors, while newcomers Tramaine Thompson, Brodrick Smith and Chris Harper all proved they had playmaking abilities.

In 2009, Kansas State was led by All-American Brandon Banks, who set school and Big 12 records in kickoff returns as well as leading the squad in receptions. Banks led the Big 12 and was eighth nationally with his average of 174.8 all-purpose yards per game and ranks third in school history with 3,828 career all-purpose yards. At wide receiver, Banks also led the team in receptions (56) and receiving yards (705) and also ranks seventh in Kansas State history with 123 career receptions and ninth in career receiving yards with 1,754.

Smith helped lead Arizona to a 2008 Las Vegas Bowl win over BYU while he tutored Mike Thomas, who became the Pac-10 career receptions record holder with 259 grabs. In 2007, Smith coached true freshman tailback Nic Grigsby to a 700-yard performance in seven starts, emerging from reserve to full-time duty.

At Rice, Smith helped the Owls to a 7-6 record in 2006, advancing to their first bowl game in 45 seasons. He coached senior Quinton Smith to 1,096 yards in 2006, making him only the sixth Owls' running back to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark.

The 1995 Kansas State graduate has coached the top three career rushing leaders in Kansas State history in Darren Sproles, Eric Hickson and Mike Lawrence.

Smith also directed a running back to the single-season rushing record in three of his last five seasons at Kansas State during his first tenure, including Sproles, a first team All-American. Sproles surpassed the mark during the 2003 season with 1,986 yards, which ranked as the 10th-best rushing total in NCAA history. At the conclusion of the 2003 regular season, Sproles finished fifth in Heisman Trophy voting and was the runner-up for the Doak Walker Award.

A second-team All-Big 12 pick in 2002, Sproles rushed for 1,465 yards and 17 touchdowns. Sproles concluded his four-year career as the Big 12's leader in all-purpose yards with 6,812 and the Wildcats' career rushing leader with 4,979 yards. In 2001, Josh Scobey set the single-season rushing record with 1,263 yards and also broke the school's career rushing touchdown record with 31.

After spending the 1992 season in the NFL with Kansas City, Smith returned to Kansas State as a student assistant. As a graduate assistant in 1995 and 1996, Smith assisted Greg Peterson with the receivers and helped tutor wideouts Kevin Lockett and Mitch Running, who became just the fifth receiving tandem in Big Eight history to snag at least 50 passes in the same season.

In nine seasons as running backs coach, Smith coached seven former backs in the NFL, including David Allen (Jacksonville and St. Louis), Rock Cartwright (Washington), Thomas Clayton (New England), Joe Hall (Kansas City), Frank Murphy (Chicago, Tampa Bay, Houston and Miami), Scobey (Arizona) and Sproles (San Diego).

During his playing career, Smith was one the Big Eight's all-time great receivers. He concluded his playing career as the Big Eight's second-leading receiver with 179 receptions, trailing just All-American Hart Lee Dykes. The total of 179 catches ranked 40th in NCAA history at the time.

Smith was named third-team All-American in 1991, honorable mention All-American in 1989 and a two-time All-Big Eight selection (1989 and 1991).

His career total of 2,457 receiving yards was third-best in Big Eight history behind Dykes and 1972 Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Rodgers. The total was bolstered by nine 100-yard receiving games, which was a school record at the time. Smith also posted three of the top four games in Kansas State history with 179 yards vs. New Mexico (1990), 174 yards vs. Washington (1991) and 172 vs. Nebraska (1991). Smith also owned three of the top five reception games in school history. He led the Big Eight as a sophomore in 1989 and was seventh in the nation with 70 catches for 816 yards. In 1990, he had 46 receptions for 796 yards and tallied 55 for 768 in 1991.

Smith graduated from Kansas State with a bachelor's degree in social science. He is married to the former Karyn Tieken. Smith has four children: Kylie, Kenzie, Kason and Kamryn.

Michael Smith Coaching History

Jan. 2013	Arkansas (Wide Receivers)
2009-12	Kansas State (Wide Receivers)
2008	Arizona (Wide Receivers)
2007	Arizona (Running Backs)
2006	Rice (Running Backs)
1997-2005	Kansas State (Running Backs)
1995-96	Kansas State (Graduate Assistant)
1993	Kansas State (Student Assistant Coach)

Home Town: New Orleans, La.
Birthdate: Nov. 21, 1970
Family: Wife, Karyn; Children, Kylie, Kenzie, Kason, Kamryn
Bowl Games: Fiesta Bowl, 2013; Cotton Bowl, 2012; Pinstripe Bowl, 2010; Las Vegas Bowl, 2008; New Orleans Bowl, 2006; Fiesta Bowl, 2004; Holiday Bowl, 2002; Insight.com Bowl, 2001; Holiday Bowl, 1999; Alamo Bowl, 1998; Fiesta Bowl, 1997; Cotton Bowl, 1997; Holiday Bowl, 1995; Copper Bowl, 1993

#1 Arkansas Track Saws Off Texas' Horns

Arkansas Expats — Sat, 12 Jan 2013 17:36:56 -0000

From UA Media Relations:

FAYETTEVILLE – In a season-opening dual, the No. 1 University of Arkansas men’s track and field team knocked off third-ranked Texas Friday evening at the Randal Tyson Track Center in Fayetteville. The Razorbacks posted a winning score of 85-78 with the help of nine event wins and eight personal-best performances. Arkansas’ double winners during the meet were Akheem Gauntlett, Raymond Higgs and Anton Kokorin.

"We got off to a good start and I thought we competed well," head coach Chris Bucknam said. "The times and jumps will all get higher, longer and faster. It’s just a matter of time. What we were looking for today was to get our feet wet again. A lot of these guys hadn’t competed since the SEC Championships last May or the NCAA Championships in June so it’s quite a big step from where they were training in the fall."

Higgs posted the Razorbacks’ first win of the meet with an NCAA-leading performance in the long jump, establishing a personal best and collegiate leader with a mark of 7.95m/26-1. With the jump, Higgs moved into ninth place on the program’s top-10 list in the event. He completed his sweep of the horizontal jumps with a first-place showing in the triple jump. He finished that event with a mark of 15.15m/49-8.5, another personal best.

On the track, Gauntlett ran to an individual win at 200 meters and anchored the team’s 4x400-meter relay to a victory in the final event of the day. He led a 1-2-3 finish for the Razorbacks in the 200 meters with his time of 20.84. In the relay, he was joined in victory by teammates Neil Braddy, Anton Kokorin and Travis Southard.

Kokorin was Arkansas’ third two-time winner in Friday’s win over the Longhorns. In addition to his effort with the 4x400-meter relay, he held strong for a first-place performance at 400 meters. Making his debut in Cardinal and White, Kokorin closed out the two-lap sprint with a time of 47.56.

Caleb Cross avenged an earlier loss in the hurdle event with a victory at 60 meters. He finished with a personal best time of 6.78, just .02 ahead of Texas’ Keiron Stewart. In the 60-meter hurdles, the two runners faced off with Stewart coming away with a narrow .05 win. Cross’ hurdle time of 7.79 represents the fastest season opener for the Newport, Ark., native.

Reigning NCAA indoor champion Andrew Irwin opened his sophomore campaign with a win in the pole vault. With the victory in hand by way of fewer misses throughout the competition, he shut it down with a final clearance of 5.20m/17-0.75. Teammate Kevin Lazas finished second in the pole vault and tied his personal best. The 1-2 finish for Irwin and Lazas gave Arkansas a late 80-75 lead over the Longhorns in the team standings.

Newcomer Tomas Squella opened his Arkansas career with a victory at 1,000 meters. He held off a late push from Texas’ Patrick McGregor to cross the finish in a time of 2:25.00, just .09 ahead of the hard-charging Longhorn. The top five places in the event finished within a second of one another.

In another Razorback debut performance, Anthony May II won the high jump with a final clearance of 2.18m/7-1.75. He finished with the same mark as teammate Brede Ellingsen but took the win with few misses during the event. May went without a miss through his first six attempts. Devin Randall was the top performer in the throws for the Razorbacks with third- and fourth-place finishes in the shot put and weight throw, respectively.

"(The win) is satisfying," Bucknam said. "You have to be good when all the chips aren’t going your way. We had a bunch of distance runners that didn’t run today, so we looked a little weak in the distance area tonight but we have a lot of talent there. And without them, we were still able to pull off a win. Things weren’t perfect and we didn’t show every card we had, and yet we were still able to match the No. 3 team in the country and beat them."

The Razorbacks return to action next weekend with a road trip to College Station, Texas, for the Texas A&M Triangular. Arkansas will be joined at the meet by Southeastern Conference mates LSU and host Aggies. Arkansas’ next home meet will be contested Jan. 25-26 with the Razorback Team Invitational. As part of their home slate, the Razorbacks will also host the 2013 NCAA and SEC Indoor Championships later this winter.

For more information regarding Razorback track and field or University of Arkansas athletics, please visit ArkansasRazorbacks.com. Fans can also keep up with Arkansas cross country and track and field through the team’s sports-specific RazorbackTF Facebook and Twitter pages.

Friday Results
No. 1 Arkansas 85
No. 3 Texas 78

60 Meters
1. Caleb Cross – 6.78 (PR) [5 points]
3. Akheem Gauntlett – 6.85 (PR) [2 points]
5. Neil Braddy – 6.92 (PR)

200 Meters
1. Akheem Gauntlett – 20.84 [5 points]
2. Neil Braddy – 21.40 (PR) [3 points]
3. Travis Southard – 21.74

400 Meters
1. Anton Kokorin – 47.56 [5 points]
3. Leoman Momoh – 48.43 [2 points]
4. Hunter Bourke – 49.53
5. David Wren – 49.95

800 Meters
2. Patrick Rono – 1:52.84 [3 points]
4. Ryan Thomas – 1:54.43 [1 point]
5. Eric Janise – 1:55.92

1,000 Meters
1. Tomas Squella – 2:25.00 [5 points]
4. Drew Butler – 2:25.98 [1 point]
5. Cameron Efurd – 2:26.00

Mile
2. Cale Wallace – 4:08.63 [3 points]
4. Solomon Haile – 4:09.52 [1 point]

3,000 Meters
6. Layne Nixon – 8:41.59 [2 points]

60m Hurdles
2. Caleb Cross – 7.79 [3 points]
5. Kevin Lazas – 8.47 [1 point]
6. Julius Sommer – 8.63
7. Nathanael Franks – 8.98

4x400m Relay
1. Neil Braddy, Travis Southard, Anton Kokorin, Akheem Gauntlett – 3:12.42 [5 points]
3. Caleb Cross, Eric Janise, Jarrion Lawson, Marek Niit – 3:14.32 [2 points]
4. David Wren, Tomas Squella, Ryan Thomas, Hunter Bourke – 3:22.69
5. Patrick Rono, Cale Wallace, Drew Butler, Cameron Efurd – 3:27.18

High Jump
1. Anthony May II – 2.18m/7-1.75 [5 points]
2. Brede Ellingsen – 2.18m/7-1.75 [3 points]
3. Noah Kittelson – 2.10m/6-10.75
5. Dwayne Golbek – 2.05m/6-8.75

Pole Vault
1. Andrew Irwin – 5.20m/17-0.75 [5 points]
2. Kevin Lazas – 5.20m/17-0.75 (PR) [3 points]
5. Julius Sommer – 4.00m/13-1.5
6. Nathanael Franks – 4.00m/13-1.5

Long Jump
1. Raymond Higgs – 7.95m/26-1 (PR) [5 points]
2. Jarrion Lawson – 7.63m/25-0.5 [3 points]

Triple Jump
1. Raymond Higgs – 15.15m/49-8.5 (PR) [5 points]
2. Anthony May II – 15.11m/49-7 [3 points]

Shot Put
3. Devin Randall – 16.26m/53.4.25 [2 points]
4. Deatrich Wise, Jr. – 14.71m/48-3.25 [1 point]
7. Kevin Lazas – 14.07m/46-2
8. Nathanael Franks – 13.87m/45-6.25
9. Julius Sommer – 12.84m/42-1.5
10. Matt Kirbos – 12.69m/41-7.75

Weight Throw
4. Devin Randall – 16.52m/54-2.5 [2 points]
6. Deatrich Wise, Jr. – 14.76m/48-5.25 [1 point]
7. Jeff Woods – 14.50m/47-7

Taver Johnson Retained As Arkansas Cornerbacks Coach

Arkansas Expats — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 17:38:05 -0000

FAYETTEVILLE - Taver Johnson, who joined the Arkansas football program in January of 2012, has been named cornerbacks coach for the Razorbacks, UA head coach Bret Bielema announced Wednesday.

Johnson was named Assistant Head Coach and guided the linebackers in 2012 after coming from Ohio State where he spent five seasons as cornerbacks coach before being retained following the Buckeyes' coaching staff change in December of 2011. In his first spring practice in Fayetteville, Johnson handled all of the administrative duties of the head coach while leading the Razorback football program over the final two weeks.

"I am thrilled Taver Johnson will remain a member of the coaching staff at Arkansas as he will provide stability for our student-athletes," said Bielema. "Taver spent five years in a championship culture prior to coming to Fayetteville, and his tremendous abilities as a leader were seen by the entire nation during the spring and throughout the 2012 season. His coaching style is extremely enthusiastic and he has always shown an incredible commitment to the development of student-athletes."

Johnson tutored the youngest position group on Arkansas' roster in 2012 as true freshmen A.J. Turner and Otha Peters each made multiple starts for the Razorbacks and five different players started at linebacker throughout the season. Senior captains Alonzo Highsmith and Tenarius Wright each suffered season-ending injuries in October, with Highsmith tied for second in the SEC and 23rd in the NCAA in tackles when he was hurt. Turner made six starts and finished fifth on the team with 53 tackles, while Peters started three games and recorded 32 tackles with two quarterback hurries. The Razorbacks ranked fifth in the SEC and 20th in the NCAA in rush defense and fifth in the conference and 24th in the nation in red zone defense.

During his five seasons in Columbus, Ohio State put together a record of 50-15 that included four straight Big Ten titles and BCS appearances. Johnson helped produce 2008 Jim Thorpe Award winner Malcolm Jenkins, who was a two-time first-team All-Big Ten performer. The Buckeyes had three cornerbacks selected in the NFL Drafts between 2008-12, led by Jenkins as the 14th overall pick by New Orleans in 2009. Ohio State had three different cornerbacks earn four first-team All-Big Ten honors under Johnson.

In 2011, the Buckeyes ranked fourth in the Big Ten in turnover margin and fifth in the conference in pass defense. Ohio State also ranked in the top 30 in the NCAA in total defense and scoring defense.

In 2010, Ohio State finished the season with a 12-1 record and a victory in the Allstate Sugar Bowl. The Buckeye defense led the Big Ten and ranked second in the NCAA in total defense by allowing 250.6 yards per game and topped the conference and ranked third in the country with an average of 13.3 points per game allowed. They also led the Big Ten while tying for third in the country in turnover margin, and ranked fourth in the nation in rushing defense, pass efficiency defense and pass defense.

In 2009, the Buckeyes were 11-2 and defeated Oregon in the Rose Bowl. Ohio State allowed just 262.5 yards per game, first in the Big Ten and fifth in the NCAA, and 12.2 points per game, second in the conference and fifth in the country while also ranking number one in the Big Ten and fifth in the NCAA by allowing 83.4 rushing yards per game. Ohio State also was second in the Big Ten and seventh in the nation in pass efficiency defense and second in the conference and 17th in the nation in pass defense.

Jenkins brought the Thorpe Award to Columbus as the nation's best defensive back in 2008. He recorded 57 tackles, three interceptions and three forced fumbles while leading the Buckeye secondary that held opponents to 164.3 passing yards per game, first in the Big Ten and eighth in the NCAA. Ohio State ranked in the top 20 in the country and top three in the conference in rushing defense, scoring defense, total defense and pass efficiency defense.

In 2007, the Buckeyes played in the BCS National Championship Game and led the country in total defense, allowing 233.0 yards per game, scoring defense, giving up just 12.7 points per game, and in pass defense, as opponents passed for 150.2 yards per game. Ohio State also led the Big Ten in rushing defense, allowing 82.9 yards per game to rank third in the country, and in pass efficiency defense with a mark of 98.73, which was fourth in the nation.

Johnson served as special teams coach with the Cleveland Browns in 2004. He was the linebackers coach at Miami (Ohio) from 2000-03. During that time he produced four first-team All-MAC selections, including two-time honoree Terrell Jones, who finished his career among the top 10 tacklers in program history. Johnson also was responsible for grooming two-time All-MAC linebackers and NFL signees Terna Nande and John Busing.

From 2005-06, he was the assistant head coach/defensive coordinator for the RedHawks and in his first year back the unit forced 35 turnovers, ranking fourth nationally. The defense also ranked among the MAC's top three teams in both scoring and rushing defense. In 2006, Miami (Ohio) grabbed 14 interceptions while forcing 22 turnovers. The RedHawks had six defensive players named All-MAC during the 2005 and 2006 seasons.

He was a graduate assistant in 1999 at Notre Dame where his responsibilities were on the defensive side of the ball in addition to working with the Irish defensive scout team.

Johnson spent the 1998 season as the defensive coordinator at Millikin University in Decatur, Ill. His defense ranked first in scoring defense (14.1 points per game) in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin and was ranked second in total defense. Johnson coordinated all recruiting activities at Millikin and was also involved in practice organization, game planning and film breakdown.

In 1997, Johnson was the linebacker coach at Millikin after serving as the strength and conditioning coordinator at Millikin. During the 1996 season, he also was the director of the Fitness and Wellness Center at the school. He spent the 1994 and 1995 seasons as the defensive line coach at Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio.

Johnson is a native of Cincinnati and a high school graduate of Cincinnati Academy of Physical Education (C.A.P.E.) After an outstanding high school career, he went on to play three years of football at Wittenberg, where he was a two-time All-American and the North Coast Athletics Conference Defensive Player of the Year in 1992 and 1993.

Johnson and his wife Sharday, a Toledo marketing graduate who ran track for the Rockets, have a son, Tyree and a daughter, Brooklynn.

Taver Johnson Coaching History

Jan. 2013	Arkansas (Cornerbacks)
2012	Arkansas (Assistant Head Coach/Linebackers)
2007-11	Ohio State (Cornerbacks)
2005-06	Miami (Ohio) (Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator)
2004	Cleveland Browns (Special Teams)
2000-03	Miami (Ohio) (Linebackers)
1999	Notre Dame (Graduate Assistant)
1996-98	Millikin (Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers)
1994-95	Wittenberg (Defensive Line)

Birthdate: July 8, 1972
Home Town: Cincinnati, Ohio
Family: Wife, Sharday; Son, Tyree; Daughter, Brooklynn
Bowl Games: Gator Bowl, 2012; Sugar Bowl, 2011; Rose Bowl, 2010; Fiesta Bowl, 2009; BCS National Championship, 2008; GMAC Bowl, 2003

Razorback Basketball Single Game Tickets On Sale

Arkansas Expats — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 15:48:47 -0000

Get your tickets now to see Arkansas take on any of nine SEC opponents in Bud Walton Arena, including Kentucky, Missouri, Florida, and Tennessee.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Single-game tickets for the entire 2012-13 Arkansas basketball season are now on sale at the Razorback Ticket Office or online at ArkansasRazorbacks.com, including all nine Southeastern Conference matchups.

Tickets for the nine SEC contests (Vanderbilt, Auburn, Mississippi State, Tennessee, No. 13/9 Florida, No. 12/12 Missouri, Georgia, Kentucky and Texas A&M) are currently on sale for $25. Tickets to some of those games were previously available as a part of one of two Razorback mini plans.

Arkansas has won four straight games as it prepares to wrap up its non-conference schedule on Saturday, Jan. 5, against Delaware State at Bud Walton Arena. The Razorbacks are 8-4 on the year and are displaying "The Fastest 40 Minutes in Basketball" that head coach Mike Anderson is known for.

Here's the link to the ticket site.