Team is energized, says Coach Petrino

FAYETTEVILLE – The University of Arkansas football team capped its week of full practices Thursday inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. The 11th-ranked Razorbacks (3-1, 1-1, SEC) take to Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Saturday to match up with Texas A&M (3-1, 0-1, Big 12). Head coach Bobby Petrino, in his third season leading Arkansas, senses excitement among the UA squad and fan base for this weekend’s Southwest Classic.

"I think our guys are anxious," Coach Petrino said. "We like what we’ve seen from practice. The focus has been good. We’ve worked hard. Our energy is good, and we’re healthy."

The Razorbacks return to Cowboys Stadium after winning last year’s matchup with Texas A&M in the same venue 47-19. Arkansas’ offense will aim to hit the field flying high Saturday, as the Razorbacks are averaging 468.0 offensive yards per game (2nd, SEC; 18th, NCAA).

"It’s exciting for us to be there," Coach Petrino said. "It’s great for our program and our school. I think it’ll be a great crowd. I’m sure we’ll be well-represented in the crowd with Razorback fans. We’re excited about Saturday."

Coach Petrino noted that nothing out of the ordinary takes place for the Razorbacks before their second Southwest Classic affair. The goal to keep the Arkansas team well-rested prior to kickoff is always maintained, explained Coach Petrino.

"We’ll have our walk-through and give them a couple hours to rest in the afternoon," Coach Petrino said. "Then we’ll have our normal Friday night."

The UA-TAMU game is set to kick off at 2:30 p.m. on ABC. For more information on Razorback football, please visit ArkansasRazorbacks.com.