Good week of practice, says Coach Petrino

FAYETTEVILLE – The University of Arkansas football team capped its week of full workouts Thursdayin preparation for Saturday’s top 10 matchup with Alabama in Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. The Razorbacks, ranked 10th in the AP poll, kick off against the top-ranked Crimson Tide at 2:30 p.m. on CBS. Head football coach Bobby Petrino, 3-0 (1-0, SEC) in his third season leading Arkansas, noted the Razorbacks performed well in drills this week.

"It’s getting closer," Coach Petrino said. "We got three good practices in; you can see the maturity of our football team. I’ve been happy with what I’ve seen. We’re relatively healthy, so now it’s time to go play the game."

The Razorbacks will put their highly-regarded offense to work against the Crimson Tide. Arkansas leads the Southeastern Conference in passing offense (367.7, 3rd in NCAA) and ranks third in total offense (483.7, 15th in NCAA).

Coach Petrino expressed his desire for the Razorbacks to approach the week like business as usual, and they didn’t disappoint.

"I think we’ve done a nice job," Coach Petrino said. "I think that’s where the maturity comes in. It’s where the leadership from the team comes in. I think they’ve done a really nice job of focusing on the task at hand. We’ve had good execution in practice."

The Arkansas defense has performed strong in the season’s first three games, leading the SEC in sacks (4.0, 4th in NCAA) and ranking second in scoring defense (11.3, T5th in NCAA) and tackles for a loss (8.7, T4th in NCAA). Coach Petrino feels that the practice week has helped build confidence amongst the team.

"We know it’s all about our preparation and our practice," Coach Petrino said. "Our guys have done a nice job of that. We’re very confident going into the game. We know it’s going to be a battle. It’s going to be hard fought."

Arkansas football fans are reminded of the "Beat Bama" pep rally at the Greek Theatre off of Dickson Street on the UA campus taking place at 8 p.m., Friday. Fans can visit CBS College Sports Network’s SEC Tailgate show adjacent to the AT&T Trough (north of Maple Drive) from 10 a.m. until game time on Saturday, with the show running from 1-2 p.m. The SEC Canned Food Drive is collecting donations outside Gates 1,8,12 and 16 on Saturday. Prior to game time, the Silver Wings Parachute Jumpers will deliver the game ball to Razorback Stadium.

For more information on Arkansas football, please visit ArkansasRazorbacks.com.