Razorbacks work hard in Friday drills

FAYETTEVILLE – The University of Arkansas football team practiced Friday inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium, with the squad taking the field again Saturday in the continued preparation for the April 16 spring game.

Special teams coordinator and outside linebackers coach John L. Smith met the media following the afternoon practice. He made mention of the linebackers unit, especially Jerico Nelson and Ross Rasner.

"They’re both playing fast," Coach Smith said. "Jerico is a great player. He’s really, really good. And Ross is becoming a really, really good player."

Coach Smith explained the superb leadership-building process that head coach Bobby Petrino is engineering during spring football. He made note that football teams thrive from having a personality or theme.

"Each football team every year is different," Coach Smith said. "They have all types of different personality. This team is a totally different personality than last year’s team. (Coach Petrino) is trying to build up more leadership from within."

The annual spring game will be televised nationally for the first time by ESPN at 3 p.m. The game will re-air April 17 on ESPNU at 5 p.m.

UA is scheduled to practice on the following dates: April 12, 13 and 15. The practice schedule is subject to change and fans are encouraged to check ArkansasRazorabacks.com daily for updated dates and times, along with post-practice reports.