3 Things to like or not like about Arkansas’ spring football

FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas just completed its spring football practice with the Red-White Game held this past Saturday.

The spring was a successful one for most part. Here’s three things to like or dislike about the spring drills.

Transfers Made Big Impact

The transfer class they brought in for most part was a huge success. Quarterback Taylen Green, running back Ja’Quinden Jackson, center Addison Nichols, offensive tackles Keyshawn Blackstock and Fernando Carmona, linebacker Xavian Sorey Jr., defensive end Anton Juncaj and defensive back Doneiko Slaughter are all in a position to have a chance to start. That is eight of the 13 signed. That has to be considered a successful class. Green and Jackson were outstanding in the spring game. Green passed for 250 yards and three touchdowns in one half. Jackson rushed for 69 yards and two touchdowns while also catching a pass for a 15-yard touchdown. The offensive line has looked much better this spring than last season and part of the reason is those three additions. The arrival of Blackstock and Carmona also allowed Patrick Kutas to move inside to guard his more natural position.

Kicking Woes

Arkansas thought they had the kicking situation in a good place with Cam Little kicking in 2024 and then the nation’s No. 1 kicker, Evan Noel, arriving when he left. However, Little opted to head to the NFL a year early. The Hogs signed Matthew Shipley from Hawaii and got Vito Calvaruso back from the transfer portal. They have some walk-on candidates as well. But in the stadium at the scrimmages they all struggled mightily. Arkansas fans are used to the field goals and point after touchdowns being near automatic. Nothing was automatic this spring. Sam Pittman said they kick well on the practice fields, but struggle in the stadium. Unfortunately they will need to make kicks in the stadium this fall. No attempts will be made in a game on the practice fields. This issue has to be fixed before the season starts.

Continuity on Defense

A rarity at Arkansas has been for the entire defensive staff to return, but that is what happened this year. Travis Williams will return to coach the linebackers and coordinate the defense. Marcus Woodson and Deron Wilson return in the secondary. Deke Adams coaches the defensive line. The defense looked improved and many players pointed to the continuity of having the same staff. In the past, the defensive line coach was a revolving door. But Adams came in and has solidified that spot. Woodson and Wilson have a deep secondary when everyone is healthy. Williams did a great job with the young group at linebacker this spring.