Thursday practice report

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas Razorback football team returned to the practice field Thursday afternoon for a workout inside Walker Pavilion. Following practice, head coach Bobby Petrino spoke with the media.

On the week of practice and preparation:

"We’ve had a good week of preparation. I’m proud of how our team responded this week as far as practice and preparation. Our guys are focused and worked extremely hard this week. I saw more energy and execution tonight in practice as I’ve seen all year. It’s time to go out Saturday and show it. We are excited for this game and really looking forward to it."

On Michael Smith’s status:

"He practiced today and he was running full speed. He probably took 30 percent of the reps which is a lot for a running back. We’ll see how he responds to it and how he feels tomorrow. This is the first day he burst and went full speed. If nothing happens in response to him pushing that hard, he will be ready to go. If he has a set back then he won’t be ready to go."

On the growth of the team this week:

"I really like the way we responded this week. Obviously, our guys were really down on Monday. We put it behind us and we came out on Tuesday and worked hard. We didn’t do everything right but our effort and attitude were really good. Wednesday’s practice was better and today was as good a Thursday as we’ve had. Hopefully that shows up on Saturday."

On Joe Adams’ status:

"He came out this week and they allowed him to run around on Tuesday. Wednesday they let him catch some balls. He didn’t do a whole lot out there today. I think he caught a few balls but we don’t do a whole lot of individual work. He did some stuff on the sideline. He has a trip to Little Rock next week and we’ll know more after that."

On plays at the line of scrimmage:

"Our offensive line and our defensive line have to control the line of scrimmage. They have to battle all day long and make plays. If we can control the line of scrimmage, give Ryan (Mallett) time and run the ball, it gives us an advantage. It always plays a big part of the game."