Arkansas Has the Right Attitude During Tuesday Practice

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The Razorback football team completed its Tuesday workout in what head coach Houston Nutt called a good day of focus and practice. Nutt was pleased with the effort of his players and thought it was the right start for game-week preparations.

“I like the way we got started (this week),” Nutt said. “The guys had a good attitude and really practiced hard.”

Entering Saturday’s game in Oxford, both teams are looking to turn their conference seasons around, so Nutt said the Hogs will need to be ready for an Ole Miss team whose season mirrors that of Arkansas.

“We’re very similar,” Nutt said. “The truth of the matter is we’re both trying to get our first SEC victory and both (teams) will be very hungry come Saturday.”

One aspect the head coach would like to see emphasized against the Rebels is the play of the offensive line, which would translate into better offensive production Saturday.

“It starts with protection,” Nutt said. “These guys can rush. (Greg) Hardy is one of the best rushers in the SEC, so it’s so important that we protect first and then you can be as creative as you want.”

Senior receiver Marcus Monk continued his efforts to return to action for the Razorbacks. Nutt talked about Monk’s desire to get back on the field and contribute to the team.

“(Marcus) really wants to play,” Nutt said. “He doesn’t want to redshirt, he wants to play. So he’s going to do everything he can do to be on the field Saturday and that’s the way he’s approaching it.”

Usually dressed out in full pads during a Tuesday practice, the Hogs worked out in their shoulder pads and shorts during the 90-minute session.

“When you hit this point (of the season),” Nutt said, “I want to see the concentration level go up to another gear and I thought with the few bumps and bruises we had, I would see how they responded to that. They had a higher level of concentration and it was good.”

The Razorbacks will return to the practice fields Wednesday to continue their preparation for Saturday’s game at Ole Miss. Log on to www.hogwired.com for continued coverage of Arkansas football.