Notes From Camp: Day 1
The Razorbacks opened fall camp on Friday evening under first-year head coach Chad Morris. Here are a few takeaways from Day 1.
Homework Done – It was evident on Friday the Hogs had done their homework over the summer in player-led workouts. Practice ran efficiently with the pace quicker than during spring ball. Both sides of the ball displayed their knowledge of the playbook with players knowing where to go throughout the day. Coach Morris praised the group afterwards for their retention of the playbook from the spring.
Smooth Moves – The work strength coach Trumain Carroll and his staff put in over the summer was on full display on Friday. The Razorbacks’ transformation was obvious as players moved around the field smoothly and with greater speed. The new-look offensive line’s athleticism and slimmed down bodies stood out.
Old Faces in New Faces – Deion Malone and Damani Carter made their debuts at their new positions. Malone is making the transition from the defensive line to the offensive line, while Carter is moving from linebacker to defensive line.
The New Guys – Transfers Rakeem Boyd (Independence CC) and Chase Harrell (Kansas) took part in their first Razorback practice. Boyd, sporting jersey No. 5, and Harrell, in jersey No. 14, recently arrived in Fayetteville. Defensive end Dorian Gerald has arrived in town and is expected to join the Hogs on the field very soon.
Day 1! – Friday marked the first of 14 practices Coach Morris will lead the Razorbacks through before school begins on August 20. Arkansas opens the season against Eastern Illinois on Sept. 1 inside a newly renovated Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.
Mallett in the House – Former Arkansas QB Ryan Mallett was in the house for the first practice. The Hogs’ all-time leader in passing yards watched the QBs most of the day. Prior to practice, Mallett launched a 60-yard bomb to one of the coaches kids, who snagged it in the end zone.
What’s on the playlist? – Friday’s music selection was… eclectic. The playlist covered a wide array of music with rap, rock and country all taking their turn on the speakers.
Up Next – The Razorbacks return for Day 2 tomorrow morning with practice slated for 10:20 a.m. Coach Morris and the team will also tackle media day in the afternoon.
