Wednesday practice report

FAYETTEVILLE – The University of Arkansas Razorback football team continued spring practices with a two-hour workout Wednesday afternoon. The squad practiced inside Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in full pads.

Spring practices will conclude with Saturday’s Red-White spring game. The coaching squad is putting together as many game-like situations as possible.

"We are trying to make it as much like a game as possible," offensive coordinator Garrick McGee said. "We want three and outs. The chains will be out there and the clock will be running."

During Wednesday’s practice, the team was split into the squads that will be used in Saturday’s Red-White spring game. McGee is confident that the teams are evenly matched and will yield a competitive game.

"It’s going to be fun," McGee said. "Our kids really enjoyed it when they found out the rosters. We spent some time making sure each team is even. And the right people are playing against the right people. Jake Bequette will be playing again DeMarcus Love. Alvin Bailey will be playing against DeQuinta Jones. We didn’t want any match-up problems that would disrupt the game. We split it down the middle so I think it should be pretty fun."

In the past, squads have been split based on position on the depth chart. This season, the coaching staff formed two evenly matched teams, a testament to the depth they have created.

"I think you can always add but we are happy with where we are," McGee said. "We have a lot more players than we’ve ever had since we have been here. To build a program and keep it rolling, you have to continue to add depth."

McGee was happy with the effort he saw in today’s practice and is expecting the focus and concentration to grow as Saturday’s scrimmage gets closer.

"They came out with enthusiasm," McGee said. "I think they worked hard. The focus and concentration weren’t where they needed to be but I was impressed with their enthusiasm and their intensity."

Arkansas is scheduled to return to the practice field at 4 p.m. Friday. Razorback practices throughout the spring are open to the public. The Red-White spring game presented by Cox Digital Cable will be held at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium on Saturday, April 24. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m.