Will Hogs' Uneventful Offseason Carry Over to Spring Practice?

Not much to talk about storyline wise going for Razorbacks as spring ball starts in two weeks

Arkansas Razorbacks offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino in season opener against UAPB in Little Rock, Ark. | Michael Morrison-Hogs on SI Images

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — This offseason has been quite a boring one for Arkansas Razorbacks’ Coach Pittman and the program's fanbase. 

Coaches have been quiet and hardly any noise was made during the transfer portal. At least there wasn’t a major flip of Arkansas’ top signee Tavion Wallace to Florida State which was heavily rumored in days leading up to the early signing period. 

Spring practice begins in 16 days with media likely receiving 20 minute viewing appointments for drills and some fastball segments. We’ll hear how some guys have grown, marvel at player’s practice speed and get to hear coach speak, “rah-rah, yeah.”

Arkansas Razorbacks coach Sam Pittman on the sidelines against the Ole Miss Rebels at Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Ark. | Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images

It all culminates April 19 when the Red-White glorified practice takes place, an event that is beginning to phase out around college football. Those mock games of years past during the Petrino era were a fun watch because there was no defense played at all. 

Now, it’s boring situational work to not give away too much on a national broadcast on ESPN+. Give media and fans some glimmer of hope or something to look forward to. 

Fans will likely hear about how far ahead the defensive line is compared to the offensive line. If that doesn’t start up fan’s emergency alert system, it's unclear what will.

There was some legitimate money invested in Arkansas’ offensive line during the winter transfer portal period which means that unit should be a bit ahead in the trenches for once in the past decade.

Offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino brought in a few shifty wide receivers along with bigger targets O’Mega Blake and Courtney Crutchfield from the portal. Kam Shanks, Raylen Sharpe and Ismail Cisse will likely be slot options in hope that Arkansas has more than two dependable options for quarterback Taylen Green through the air. 

Too many times last season Andrew Armstrong was keyed in on to make a play although other receivers finding themselves open on the same play. This is where Green will need to step up, be comfortable in Petrino’s scheme, limit drive killing sacks and turnovers next season.

Being out of the spotlight can be a good for a team with limited expectations. Maybe Pittman has his guys right where he needs them to be, under the radar.

HOGS FEED:

• ESPN's Lunardi increases Hogs' odds to reach NCAA Tournament

• Lack of first-round picks could dramatically alter Hogs' future

• Arkansas' struggles with teams in purple continues

• Hogs return to Arlington to face K-State in weekend opener

• Hogs squander golden opportunity with top-ranked Auburn on ropes