Razorbacks Wrap Up Tuesday Practice

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – As the season opener against Troy on Sept. 1 draws nearer, the Razorbacks continue to work on executing on both sides of the ball and developing depth. Head coach Houston Nutt says as the preseason workouts continue, players will also start to get stronger.

“We’re just trying to get them a little tougher every single day,” Nutt said. “For the most part, we have guys who are really wanting to do it.”

A day after getting the news that Marcus Monk will miss 4-6 weeks with a knee injury, Nutt said he is proud of how the rest of the receivers have stepped up. He appreciates how hard they competed during Tuesday’s practice.

“I really like the receivers’ attitude,” Nutt said. “They want to make up for (the loss of) Monk.”

The offense is continuing to look for which players will make an impact in pressure situations. Nutt called out Robert Johnson, London Crawford and Crosby Tuck for the good plays they made during third-down drills. Nutt said Tuck is really pushing through and making strides on the field.

The second-unit offensive line had some struggles, which Nutt attributed to players still adjusting to the hot conditions and the physicality of practice.

“We have some freshmen in there and they’re not used to the intensity of what we do,” Nutt said.

Fullback Peyton Hillis missed practice with what Nutt called a slightly tweaked hamstring. Nate Garner and D.J. Williams sat out during the workout as a precautionary move to tend to concussions.

“We have some guys out right now that normally make a difference especially in the passing game,” Nutt said. Ben Cleveland and Chris Wade were also on the sidelines during practice.

The Razorbacks will return to the practice fields Wednesday evening. This week’s sessions are closed to the public, but fans are welcomed to attend the team’s second scrimmage scheduled for 6 p.m. on Saturday at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Log on to www.hogwired.com for more news about Arkansas football.