Preparation for South Carolina Continues at Wednesday Practice

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Arkansas football continued preparations for the South Carolina game with a 90-minute practice in shorts and shells on the practice fields just south of Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium on Wednesday.

“Practice was really good today,” head coach Houston Nutt said. “We had another good day today. So far, we have had a very good week of preparation. We need one more good mental day tomorrow.”

Senior linebacker Weston Dacus attended practice today but did not participate as a precautionary measure.

“It’s that time of year,” Nutt said. “We are going to hold him, rest him a little bit. He’ll be ready to go (against South Carolina). It’s a little bit of everything. He’s just a little bruised. He’ll be all right.”

One of the challenges the Razorbacks will face in South Carolina is able quarterback Blake Mitchell. Arkansas is no stranger to Mitchell as they witnessed his accuracy and throwing ability last year in Columbia.

“When he gets hot, he is hot,” Nutt said. “Last year in Columbia, he got hot with (Kenny) McKinley, Sydney Rice and he completed a lot of passes. We have to get his timing off rhythm. We have to give him some different looks and try to keep him off balance. He’s very good and he can be very accurate.”

In addition to an important SEC matchup, Saturday also marks this season’s Senior Day where the 2007 seniors will be honored before the final home game of their careers.

“We always do (get more out of the team on senior day),” Nutt said. “Our senior day has always been very special. They realize that this is the last time they are going to run through the “A” in Reynolds Stadium. It’s a very sentimental day and there are a lot of feelings involved. It’s always a great night.”

A win will be on the minds of every senior Saturday night because, with a victory, Arkansas will be bowl eligible for the second season in a row.

“It’s that part of the season,” Nutt said. “It’s November. Everybody realizes we are in the stretch where every game is so critical.”

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