SportingNews' Tom Dienhart's SportingBlog on Arkansas

[geechee]

Mustain gives Arkansas fans a chance to dream
Sporting News
Tom Dienhart's SportingBlog
May 19, 2006

Part 3 on SEC: Arkansas

Can Houston Nutt afford to start a true freshman quarterback? Hell, no.

Should he? Hell, yes.

Golden boy Mitch Mustain is the guy every Hogs fan had to have. They got him. Now, just lay off Nutt when the kid struggles. 'Cause it'll happen.

It could be as soon as the season opener, when USC visits Fayetteville. Yeah, THAT USC. Remember when Godzilla visited Tokyo? But fret not, Hog Nation. Consider the visit by the mighty Trojans as an opportunity to "Wooo, pig! Sooie" your way into the national consciousness. And wouldn't it be great if Mustain led the calls?

It could happen. Hey, ya gotta dream. And that's just what Mustain has brought Arkansas: the chance to dream -- really big.

Lord knows, Arkansas deserves it. This is a place with great fans (Wild Willy is a hog hat-wearing crazy), Taj Mahal facilities (Check out the Broyles Athletic Center) and an underrated tradition (Is there anything cooler than running through the "A"?).

But don't dream too big, Arkie. Not with Alabama, Tennessee and LSU all visiting Fayetteville. And a trip to Auburn also is on the to-do list. No, the goal this year is to get back in the bowl business. Hasn't happened since 2003.

And it could happen this fall. In fact, it should happen. Here's all the Kid -- or whomever is under center -- needs to remember: Don't be a hero. Just follow this one simple rule: Hand the damn ball to Darren McFadden. A lot.

Never heard of McFadden? Oh, you will. He's ONLY the most underrated running back in the SEC -- maybe the nation. And Arkansas' defense, led by a strong front seven, will be salty in Year 2 under coordinator Reggie Herring.

For now: Hang in there, Kid. Soon enough, you'll be the toast of Dickson Street in what could be a golden age for Arkansas.

[zud the hut]

Mustain gives Arkansas fans a chance to dream
Sporting News
Tom Dienhart's SportingBlog
May 19, 2006

Part 3 on SEC: Arkansas

Can Houston Nutt afford to start a true freshman quarterback? Hell, no.

Should he? Hell, yes.

Golden boy Mitch Mustain is the guy every Hogs fan had to have. They got him. Now, just lay off Nutt when the kid struggles. 'Cause it'll happen.

It could be as soon as the season opener, when USC visits Fayetteville. Yeah, THAT USC. Remember when Godzilla visited Tokyo? But fret not, Hog Nation. Consider the visit by the mighty Trojans as an opportunity to "Wooo, pig! Sooie" your way into the national consciousness. And wouldn't it be great if Mustain led the calls?

It could happen. Hey, ya gotta dream. And that's just what Mustain has brought Arkansas: the chance to dream -- really big.

Lord knows, Arkansas deserves it. This is a place with great fans (Wild Willy is a hog hat-wearing crazy), Taj Mahal facilities (Check out the Broyles Athletic Center) and an underrated tradition (Is there anything cooler than running through the "A"?).

But don't dream too big, Arkie. Not with Alabama, Tennessee and LSU all visiting Fayetteville. And a trip to Auburn also is on the to-do list. No, the goal this year is to get back in the bowl business. Hasn't happened since 2003.

And it could happen this fall. In fact, it should happen. Here's all the Kid -- or whomever is under center -- needs to remember: Don't be a hero. Just follow this one simple rule: Hand the damn ball to Darren McFadden. A lot.

Never heard of McFadden? Oh, you will. He's ONLY the most underrated running back in the SEC -- maybe the nation. And Arkansas' defense, led by a strong front seven, will be salty in Year 2 under coordinator Reggie Herring.

For now: Hang in there, Kid. Soon enough, you'll be the toast of Dickson Street in what could be a golden age for Arkansas.


We haven't played in Fayetteville in a long time. We play in War Memorial in Little Rock on CBS.

[goallthewayua]

I'm liking this guy better then I did when I saw his Auburn predictions. He sounds pretty acurate with Alabama and Arkansas so far. I think the USC game is going to be a lot closer then most people think, but I'm pretty sure that the Trojans will pull it out. I've got us best case 8-4 worst case 6-6 most likely 7-5. with losses to USC, Auburn, LSU. I've got four toss up games which I'm pretty sure we will lose at least one if not more Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Ole Miss. I really agreed with "Can Houston Nutt afford to start a true freshman quarterback? Hell, no. Should he? Hell, yes." Think about it, you go from senior prom to trying to lead a stale passing attack against USC. I think it sucks for him I just wish we had someone else. I would really like to see Mustain red-shirted this year, but I'm positive you will see him start the USC game and have problems. I don't think McFadden and Jones will be enough to pull it out. Our defense will keep us close in that one. Mustain won't be adjusted until the Alabama game, but once he is we should have a pretty balanced attack which is something we haven't had since Storner. Should be interesting in the next few years.

[GeauxTo]

I am very optimistic about the Hogs this year. I think they will be the surprise team of the SEC and will beat some biggies who may not expect it, particularly Alabama. It would be so sweeeeeet if they could beat USC!

[CRIMSONWHITE]

I am very optimistic about the Hogs this year. I think they will be the surprise team of the SEC and will beat some biggies who may not expect it, particularly Alabama. It would be so sweeeeeet if they could beat USC!

Of course you think they will beat Bama, Geaux. It's funny to me how you say you respect Bama and say all the top teams in the SEC (And Arkansas) will beat us. :wacko:

[geechee]

One reason Nutt wants to get Mustain on the field now is McFadden. If Mustain redshirts that would only give him two years playing in game situations with McFadden. Nutt has got to be thinking this is the closest he is going to come, talent wise, to getting to the promise land. If Mustain works out all the kinks this season, they'll have two good years together if McFadden does not go pro.

[CRIMSONWHITE]

One reason Nutt wants to get Mustain on the field now is McFadden. If Mustain redshirts that would only give him two years playing in game situations with McFadden. Nutt has got to be thinking this is the closest he is going to come, talent wise, to getting to the promise land. If Mustain works out all the kinks this season, they'll have two good years together if McFadden does not go pro.

I don't know about Mustain, geechee he didn't look good in the Army-All American game.

[goallthewayua]

well geechee probably the best reason you will see Mustain start the USC game (besides the fact that Mustain is the most talented quarterback we have) is that Nutt knows just like everyone else that if he doesn't play Mustain against USC and we lose then it wouldn't matter if McFadden rushed for -100 yards or our defense gave up 600 yards of offense all Arkansas fans would blame the loss on not playing Mustain. In addition the other two quarterbacks we have seemed to have trouble picking up Malzan's new offense in the spring. Since Mustain already knows it he should be able to step right in. It will take a while for him to adjust to the SEC however. I do like your opinion on getting McFadden and Mustain together for an extra year though. I really hadn't given that much consideration. As for Crimson it's always funny how bama fans seem to change their opinions to whatever is best for them. Go back and read their post during the Mustain recruiting deal and see how a sub-par performance in the Army game really influenced their decision on whether or not they wanted him there. I'll tell you this though I'd take Mustain over John Parker Wilson anytime. Furthermore I wouldn't consider beating Alabama an upset. I do have respect for Alabama's tradition, but the thing I really don't like about them is that most of their fans will put an Alabama spin on anything. I don't care if someone found a cure for cancer you would have someone from bama say did you know that guy drove through Mobile one time or his great grandfather was from Birmingham. Regardless should be a good game if yal win i'll be the first to give you congrad's, but if you lose I'll prepare for the ref's screwed us and the wait till next years, and the usually blah blah. F'n A-labama

[GeauxTo]

Furthermore I wouldn't consider beating Alabama an upset.
Amen, Brother, Amen!
:laugh:

[GeauxTo]

Of course you think they will beat Bama, Geaux. It's funny to me how you say you respect Bama and say all the top teams in the SEC (And Arkansas) will beat us. :wacko:
I love ya, Crimson, but you just aren't going to be very good this year. 7-5 is as good as it is going to get in Bearville.
:happy:

[goallthewayua]

oh bear bryant is from Arkansas by the way

[geechee]

well geechee probably the best reason you will see Mustain start the USC game (besides the fact that Mustain is the most talented quarterback we have) is that Nutt knows just like everyone else that if he doesn't play Mustain against USC and we lose then it wouldn't matter if McFadden rushed for -100 yards or our defense gave up 600 yards of offense all Arkansas fans would blame the loss on not playing Mustain.

It should not be that way Hog. The Coach should not have to be looking over his shoulder at the fans. The fans should let the Coach do what he thinks is best for the team. If you guys start piling expectations on a young team it could get ugly. We have a freshman just like yours that is also the most talented QB on the team also but he won't be our starting QB. Having the most talent and being ready to play at the next level are two different things.

[goallthewayua]

Hey this is probably Nutt's last year anyway so it really doesn't matter. Arkansas fans are usually pretty good people, but after back to back losing seasons we will lose patience. I agree it's sad that Nutt has to look over his shoulder, but if we didn't have the past two season's turn out like they have then he wouldn't have to worry about a thing. Arkansas fans won't take a third without screaming for somebody's head (I doubt Georgia or any other SEC fan except Vandy would either). Expectations among most Arkansas fans for this season are 7-5 or 8-4 so they aren't that high. True you do have Stafford, but since you also have a couple of other talented quarterbacks Tereshinski (think that's how it is spelled) you are in a position where you could red-shirt Stafford if you wanted to. We don't have Dick. Oh wait ya we do have Dick and Johnson. The names say it all. But short answer is that expectations really aren't that high this year, but there will be a lot of pressure on Mustain to do something's he probably isn't ready to do. As for Nutt unless we are 8-4 or 9-3 next year he will be gone. That's just the way it is.

[geechee]

We are not red-shirting Stafford. He will be playing this year. He is just not ready to start yet.

[goallthewayua]

you are in a position where you could red-shirt Stafford if you wanted to I didn't say that you were I just said you could if you wanted to

[nooneLT]

i'm not trying to be a jerk, but where's all this hype for arkansas coming from? yes ark has one of the best running offense in the SEC, but that's never enough. yes they return 19 starters (i think) but they're also learning a new offense. how many teams in their first year of a new offense thrive? not only that, the new offense is handled by a HS coach. has he seen the complexity of defenses in the SEC? and what about the QB? is mustain gonna start? he hasn't even taken a snap yet.

it just seems like arkansas has as much question marks than alabama. like i said, i'm not trying to be a jerk. maybe someone can explain the hype.

[GamecockDieHard]

McFadden is/has been a truly gifted back. If the OL is somewhat effective, a great back can elevate the whole team's play. Also, Mustain could come out firing on all 8. If he did, he wouldn't be the first NCAA QB to start for 4 years. Their defense sounds solid. I don't think it's hype, I think Ark fans have reasonable expectations. It's not like they're making hotel reservations in Atlanta already. When you think about it, hype may be a good word for it. And it applies to every team that suits up and every fan that takes time to follow it. I'm definitely hyped!

[gopig]

i'm not trying to be a jerk, but where's all this hype for arkansas coming from? yes ark has one of the best running offense in the SEC, but that's never enough. yes they return 19 starters (i think) but they're also learning a new offense. how many teams in their first year of a new offense thrive? not only that, the new offense is handled by a HS coach. has he seen the complexity of defenses in the SEC? and what about the QB? is mustain gonna start? he hasn't even taken a snap yet.

it just seems like arkansas has as much question marks than alabama. like i said, i'm not trying to be a jerk. maybe someone can explain the hype.
nooneLT, I think the hype comes from the way we lost our games last year. 4 losses by 4 points or less, including lsu to end the season. We definately improved as the year went on, and we bring those people back. New offense will be difficult. Year two of the defense, however, so that adjustment should be over.

[BAMA NATE]

I love ya, Crimson, but you just aren't going to be very good this year. 7-5 is as good as it is going to get in Bearville.
:happy:

Tell me this. You say you have so much respect for Bama but say we'll be beaten by anyone with the slightest chance to beat us. Why not say these things about Arkansas, USCar, or UGA. 7-5 will be as good as it gets for Bama but what about Arkansas? I don't see you trashing them like that. You say Arkansas will be 8-4 while Bama is 7-5 yet Bama clearly still has the better team. Explain.

As for Arkansas...the TSN guy is pretty much on the money. I'd say 7-5 would be great for them this year.

[GeauxTo]

Tell me this. You say you have so much respect for Bama but say we'll be beaten by anyone with the slightest chance to beat us. Why not say these things about Arkansas, USCar, or UGA. 7-5 will be as good as it gets for Bama but what about Arkansas? I don't see you trashing them like that. You say Arkansas will be 8-4 while Bama is 7-5 yet Bama clearly still has the better team. Explain.

As for Arkansas...the TSN guy is pretty much on the money. I'd say 7-5 would be great for them this year.
I really believe Arkansas will be something to behold this year.
As far as comparing them with Bama, who you say "clearly still has the better team," here's my reasoning.

QB - Two fairly untested QBs, but I think Arkansas' is better and will be able to do enough passing to set the running game up.
Running Game - Bama always puts out a pretty good running game, but I think Arkansas' is better, per McFadden.
OL - I think Arkansas' is better, even though Bama can only show improvement from the misery of last year's OL.
D - though Bama will quarrel about it, the Ds are pretty much even. Bama is only a shadow on D of what it had last year.

[nooneLT]

how do you figure arkansas has an edge on the QB? you can't be thinking mitch mustain...

[GeauxTo]

how do you figure arkansas has an edge on the QB? you can't be thinking mitch mustain...
More on the order of "John Parker Who?"

[BamaMatt]

More on the order of "John Parker Who?"

I'm pretty sure you'll remember the name quite well over the next few years.

[goallthewayua]

Oh God, here we go again. Look bama, nobody's expectations are that high for Arkansas this year, but all Razorback fans do think we will have a better season then the last two (8-4 best, 7-5 probable, 6-6 hopefully worse). If you think we have high expectations just because a lot of people are saying we will beat you this year then YOUR expectations are way too high. I've said it before and I'll say it again you lost a lot of quality players off an EXTREMELY overachieving team last year. Hince, this WILL be a rebuilding year for Alabama. True you maintained a GOOD running back, but your stable last year was obviously your defense where you lost a lot of quality guys. True you still have a decent pot smoking, gun totting linebacker who will probably be able to play by the Arkansas game, and you have a good corner, but they definately won't be the same squad as last year. Long story short the Alabama game is always tough and it is also probably my second favorite SEC west game to watch us play all year, but if we beat yal I would look at it the same way as if we beat Ole Miss. Now if we beat Auburn that would be an upset. I do agree with Bama Matt, Geaux you will hear John Parker Wilson's name called out a lot next year. It will just be "John Parker Wilson sacked by so and so." F'n A-labama

[nooneLT]

Oh God, here we go again. Look bama, nobody's expectations are that high for Arkansas this year, but all Razorback fans do think we will have a better season then the last two (8-4 best, 7-5 probable, 6-6 hopefully worse). If you think we have high expectations just because a lot of people are saying we will beat you this year then YOUR expectations are way too high. I've said it before and I'll say it again you lost a lot of quality players off an EXTREMELY overachieving team last year. Hince, this WILL be a rebuilding year for Alabama. True you maintained a GOOD running back, but your stable last year was obviously your defense where you lost a lot of quality guys. True you still have a decent pot smoking, gun totting linebacker who will probably be able to play by the Arkansas game, and you have a good corner, but they definately won't be the same squad as last year. Long story short the Alabama game is always tough and it is also probably my second favorite SEC west game to watch us play all year, but if we beat yal I would look at it the same way as if we beat Ole Miss. Now if we beat Auburn that would be an upset. I do agree with Bama Matt, Geaux you will hear John Parker Wilson's name called out a lot next year. It will just be "John Parker Wilson sacked by so and so." F'n A-labama

chill out there buddy. my question wasn't to rile anybody up. this isn't the first website that says arkansas will be competing in the west. i just wanted to ask how arkansas' fans feel and why they feel that way.

and yes, 3/4 starters in the secondary has to be replaced, but 2 of the replacements had a lot of pt last year. last year our linebackers were the core of our defense. this year it's our linemen. we'll have people stepping up just like last year. i don't think any Bama fans think that this defense will be equal or better than last years, but the slack off isn't as extreme as you guys hope it would be.

[goallthewayua]

seems to me

Alabama-key players= lose to Arkansas, finishes with 6-6 record at best

Arkansas same key players+year of experience+more additional key players=24-13 Victory over Alabama in Fayetteville 2006. IMO

[nooneLT]

seems to me

Alabama-key players= lose to Arkansas, finishes with 6-6 record at best

Arkansas same key players+year of experience+more additional key players=24-13 Victory over Alabama in Fayetteville 2006. IMO

wow, kinda one sided aren't you?

wouldn't it be alabama - key players + year of experience + incoming additional key players? look at our recruiting the last 2 seasons compared to arkansas and tell me who has more incoming additional key players.

geaux you might have some competition for the biggest homer award yet.

[goallthewayua]

Arkansas Key Positions needed-

Quarterback-filled

Widereciever-filled

Expectation 7-5

Alabama

Quarterback-?

Linebacker-Filled, just give him a quarter bag and some bullets and its all good

Expectation 6-6

Look dude, lets just finish this discussion Sept 23. Like I said before if we lose I'll be the first to congradulate. Say it so Marijuwana!

[GeauxTo]

geaux you might have some competition for the biggest homer award yet.
Hmmmm...
Somehow, I was thinking that I relinquished that honor to every Bama poster on here some time ago.
:laugh:

[VOLjlt]

Hmmmm...
Somehow, I was thinking that I relinquished that honor to every Bama poster on here some time ago.
:laugh:


True dat... :rolleyes: :lolup:

[nooneLT]

Arkansas Key Positions needed-

Quarterback-filled

Widereciever-filled

Expectation 7-5

Alabama

Quarterback-?

Linebacker-Filled, just give him a quarter bag and some bullets and its all good

Expectation 6-6

Look dude, lets just finish this discussion Sept 23. Like I said before if we lose I'll be the first to congradulate. Say it so Marijuwana!

wow. maybe if you knew what our needs were without spouting off like some red-headed stepchild. i never said we're gonna beat arkansas. but your ignorance astounds me. this past recruiting season our biggest need was on the OL and the DBs. go and take a look at our recruits and see if we managed to fill the void. as far as QB's. we got john parker wilson, a parade all american who led one of the top HS football programs in the nation. jimmy barnes was rated #5 QB out of california when he was recruited, he was in the same class as mark sanchez out of usc. then this past year we recruited greg mcelroy, the #2-3 QB coming out of texas.

go research something before you spout off. it really makes you look ignorant and childish.

and geaux, while it's true there's a lot of Bama homers out there...they really can't compare to you. i mean, i bet you even make corndogs for a living
:laugh:

[bigkahuna]

wow, kinda one sided aren't you?

wouldn't it be alabama - key players + year of experience + incoming additional key players? look at our recruiting the last 2 seasons compared to arkansas and tell me who has more incoming additional key players.

geaux you might have some competition for the biggest homer award yet.

Alright using the recruiting ranking services this is what I have come up. Comparing 2005 and 2006 recruiting classes this is the totals.

Number of 5 Star recruits: Alabama 2, Arkansas 2
Number of 4 Star recruits: Alabama 16, Arkansas 8
Number of 3 Star recruits: Alabama 32, Arkansas 28
Number of 2 Star recruits: Alabama 5, Arkansas 12

Now I am not sure about you, but to me thos recruiting classes look pretty comparable. Besides the number of "stars" is always subjective anyways.

[nooneLT]

Alright using the recruiting ranking services this is what I have come up. Comparing 2005 and 2006 recruiting classes this is the totals.

Number of 5 Star recruits: Alabama 2, Arkansas 2
Number of 4 Star recruits: Alabama 16, Arkansas 8
Number of 3 Star recruits: Alabama 32, Arkansas 28
Number of 2 Star recruits: Alabama 5, Arkansas 12

Now I am not sure about you, but to me thos recruiting classes look pretty comparable. Besides the number of "stars" is always subjective anyways.

my mistake. yes, they're comparable. in 2005 alabama was ranked 18 in rivals and 16 by scout. arkansas was ranked 24 by rivals and 32 by scout. in 2006 rivals has us at 11 and arkansas at 26. scout has us at 18 and arkansas at 30. we have the advantage but it isn't much.

yes, a lot of times stars don't mean anything. but to say that arkansas has more incoming key positions than alabama is garbage. i was caught in the heat of the argument. but still, in my defense, it was to this post

Arkansas same key players+year of experience+more additional key players=24-13 Victory over Alabama in Fayetteville 2006. IMO

i'm not saying we're gonna beat arkansas. arkansas always plays us tough (seems to play us tougher than auburn) i just dislike it when fans won't see it from another perspective and just spout out their nonsense.

[BAMA NATE]

my mistake. yes, they're comparable. in 2005 alabama was ranked 18 in rivals and 16 by scout. arkansas was ranked 24 by rivals and 32 by scout. in 2006 rivals has us at 11 and arkansas at 26. scout has us at 18 and arkansas at 30. we have the advantage but it isn't much.

yes, a lot of times stars don't mean anything. but to say that arkansas has more incoming key positions than alabama is garbage. i was caught in the heat of the argument. but still, in my defense, it was to this post



i'm not saying we're gonna beat arkansas. arkansas always plays us tough (seems to play us tougher than auburn) i just dislike it when fans won't see it from another perspective and just spout out their nonsense.

I'm not saying the Arkansas game is a gimme but it would be kind of stupid for anyone to consider us the underdog at this point.

[GeauxTo]

I'm not saying the Arkansas game is a gimme but it would be kind of stupid for anyone to consider us the underdog at this point.
Well... call me stupid.
:laugh:

[goallthewayua]

i'm not saying we're gonna beat arkansas. arkansas always plays us tough (seems to play us tougher than auburn) i just dislike it when fans won't see it from another perspective and just spout out their nonsense.

Dude, I was mainly just messing with you. Really I just like to poke fun at the bama homers because they take it so personally. You should have picked up on it by the Say it aint so Marijuawan comment at the end. Anyway, I didin't research my comment and I do think that John Parker Wilson will have an okay year if your line can hold up and I do think Andre Smith will be awesome. I'm just not sure about the rest of your OL. However, I'm just trying to get yal to realize that 2006 is going to be a lowend rebuilding year for your program. By lowend I mean not a total rebuild like we had to do last season and to a lesser extent the season before that, but you will be rebuilding and I also think that Hawaii has a got a legiment shot to upset you in your first game. You shouldn't overlook them. Anyway, bama should be 3-0 and we should be 2-1 by the time we play and it will be a good game, but I think we will have the advantage. To try to get some closure on the subject I called a friend of mine a minute ago who is a handicapper in Las Vegas (and a big time LSU fan so unbiased). I asked if the Arkansas/Alabama game where tomorrow who would he take and what did he think the line would be. After about an hour conversation about what if's, he said that the line would probably be bama anywhere from-3 to-6. However, he did say if that was the line he would take Arkansas all the way to Arkansas-3, but he did say several times that this game is always hard to pick and he generally stays away. If it makes you feel better he did have a list of things that this would depend on. Anyway, don't take what I say to persoanlly I don't have anything against the Alabama program. You have a good tradition. I just have a thing against the majority of their fans. Congrads on winning the SEC west in baseball and good luck this fall I think your going to need some when Ole Miss comes to town also.

[BAMA NATE]

Well... call me stupid.
:laugh:

Okay then stupid! :happy:

I just don't think it is very legit at this point. We beat them last year in a very physical game. Our offense will be up to par by the time we play them so our offense shouldn't be too bad a concern because I believe J.P. will perform well in his first real test. Our defense won't have as much size but the speed will still be brutal on the Hogs' "smashmouth" ground attack. There is just no reason to believe they will have a capable pass attack with their QB situation so the key to this game will be the run for both teams. I'm a little slow to give Arky an advantage because of our depth at RB. Darby is as good as any RB in the SEC plus we'll have two or maybe three very talented backups. If the Hogs stack the box and give J.P. an oppurtunity then he will deliver. Its not like he has never seen any SEC action before.

[nooneLT]

Well... call me stupid.
:laugh:

heh, sometimes geaux, we don't even have to say it. we just have to read your posts.

[goallthewayua]

I'm a little slow to give Arky an advantage because of our depth at RB. Darby is as good as any RB in the SEC plus we'll have two or maybe three very talented backups.

Now thats stupid, but clarify. Are you saying that Darby is as good as McFadden/Jones or are you trying to say something else.

We beat them last year in a very physical game.

You don't have the same team you had last year.

I believe J.P. will perform well in his first real test.

Why?

There is just no reason to believe they will have a capable pass attack with their QB situation so the key to this game will be the run for both teams.

Decent point, but obvious. We don't have to have a rock star passing game or even one that is overally capable just the appearence of one, but if the key to the game will be the run for both teams then why wouldn't we have an advantage?

Darby is as good as any RB in the SEC

Darby is good, but he isn't in the same league as David Irons, Alley Broussard, McFadden/Jones, but he is a very good SEC caliber back.

Your thinking with your heart instead of your head this year dude.

You mean you hope we're 6-6 right?

I just don't get it.

If it was Auburn, UGA, or even USCar coming off a 10-win season then they would be getting tons of respect. I'm tired of people disrespecting us just because we are Alabama. They poke fun at our non-conference schedule which is ridiculous. I don't wanna hear anybody talk about ours. Look at Auburn's or just about every other SEC team's schedule. Them 1-AA teams sure lighten the season don't they? You all make ridiculous predictions and comments but then respond with, "Oh...I have all the respect in the world for Bama." Just go ahead and say it. You hate us and were probably hoping Texas Tech and their immortal offense would tear us a new one. I'm sorry we can't be absolutely perfect to the media like Florida, Auburn, and LSU seem to be these days. I guess thats what a winning tradition will get you. Treated like a loser.

Thats why I dislike most Alabama fans.

Have a happy Memorial Day everyone be safe

[nooneLT]

Darby is good, but he isn't in the same league as David Irons, Alley Broussard, McFadden/Jones, but he is a very good SEC caliber back.


i think you mean kenny irons. and you're wrong. darby IS in the same league as those guys. think about this, he has had back to back 1000 yard rushing seasons with OUR OL. with another 1000 yards this year he'll be Alabama's top leading rusher of all time. and given that alabama is mostly a rushing team, it's a pretty awesome feat.

darby's always underrated because he doesn't have the breakaway speed of a reggie bush or a mcfadden. take a look at his runs from this past year. he has to avoid a defender behind the LOS at least half the time. he also doesn't get the TD's like the other backs in the SEC. this past year, everytime we got within the 5 yard line, tim castille carried the ball.

[goallthewayua]

I meant Kenny Irons, thanks for the correction. I'm not saying Darby isn't a good back hell if he has the same kind of season this year like he has in the past he won't go any later then the second round in next years draft, but I do think the backs that I mentioned earlier are more talented. Let me ask you this and not that I'm comparing the backs I mentioned before to him, but how would you compare Darby to Alexander? Your OL now vs your OL in 2000?

[WDavE]

There is a big difference in young players pass blocking or run blocking...Alabama's couldn't pass block.......

In 2004, Alabama had two drafted offensive linemen at the end of the year. (Britt and Mathis) Darby carried the ball 219 times and gained 1,021 yards. He averaged 4.8 yards a carry.

In 2005, Darby carried the ball 239 times and gained 1,294 yards. 5.2 yards an attempt.

My other comment is that Alabama got alot more respect last year then most other teams would have. You were at one time ranked number 3 in the nation with an anemic offense.
Preceeding this high ranking....
You beat Ole Miss 13-10 and the Rebs ended the year 111th in total offense. You beat Tenn. 6-3 and they ended the season ranked 90th. Utah St. came in 98th and then MSU finished at 113th.

I am not saying that you didn't deserve being ranked high but third was just a tad much when looking at the other deserving teams at the time and comparing the complete body of work.....

I would tend to put in you in the other slate of teams listed by another poster above.........

[nooneLT]

I meant Kenny Irons, thanks for the correction. I'm not saying Darby isn't a good back hell if he has the same kind of season this year like he has in the past he won't go any later then the second round in next years draft, but I do think the backs that I mentioned earlier are more talented. Let me ask you this and not that I'm comparing the backs I mentioned before to him, but how would you compare Darby to Alexander? Your OL now vs your OL in 2000?

i would say that darby and shaun alexander was comparable as college backs. they both aren't the fastest backs, but their vision and cut-back ability are among the best in the nation. alexander also ran behind a very good OL. if you remember chris samuels was drafted 3rd that year, won the outland trophy too. the fact that darby's about to break alexander's record makes him something special to watch.

[nooneLT]

There is a big difference in young players pass blocking or run blocking...Alabama's couldn't pass block.......

In 2004, Alabama had two drafted offensive linemen at the end of the year. (Britt and Mathis) Darby carried the ball 219 times and gained 1,021 yards. He averaged 4.8 yards a carry.

In 2005, Darby carried the ball 239 times and gained 1,294 yards. 5.2 yards an attempt.

My other comment is that Alabama got alot more respect last year then most other teams would have. You were at one time ranked number 3 in the nation with an anemic offense.
Preceeding this high ranking....
You beat Ole Miss 13-10 and the Rebs ended the year 111th in total offense. You beat Tenn. 6-3 and they ended the season ranked 90th. Utah St. came in 98th and then MSU finished at 113th.

I am not saying that you didn't deserve being ranked high but third was just a tad much when looking at the other deserving teams at the time and comparing the complete body of work.....

I would tend to put in you in the other slate of teams listed by another poster above.........


alabama's OL couldn't run block that well either...look at game tapes and see the yards after first contact darby gets. i'll give you that our interior linemen are vastly more talented than our tackles, but our OL was crap last year. instead of peaking at the end of the season (lsu, auburn) they peaked at the florida game. i'll have to check but i think they gave up more sacks those 2 games then the previous 9.

oh and the reason we were ranked 3rd was because we were the last undefeated team in div1 not named texas and usc.

[bigkahuna]

This is what I see when I breakdown Alabama this year. The biggest glaring point is that they lost seven on a great defensive squad. It is hard to replace that kind of mass exodus, let alone the production that those guys had last year.

The biggest concern on the D-Line will be depth.Tthe starting four will be fine, if Clark and Lee can stay healthy and Gilberry and Greenwood can get some decent pressure on the QB. Bottom line for the D-Line: Get some quality depth, and get to the QB more.

The biggest concern at LB, how much will they drop off. Ryans and Roach were great at stopping the run. Can Simpson, Collins and Jones even come close to that kind of production? I seriously doubt it. That is not a knock on those guys, just a testament to how good Ryans and Roach were.

The secondary is just all but gone, I think Robinson is the only returning starter right. Right away they will have a problem with depth, which means that Grey, Dukes, and Carter will have to step up big time, but I don't see this unit being as good as Bama's unit from a year ago.

I don't see this unit going down in flames, but I do see them being in the middle of the pack as opposed to way out front.


As for the offense, the biggest question will be at QB. How quickly can JPW grasp the offense, Gullion will be gunning for the starting job as well. But it appears that JPW is the QB of the future. How much of the offense will Shula allow him to run. Also Bama needs to get better on converting 3rd downs. Which is why the passing game is going to be more important.

The RB situaiton is solid if not great. Darby is a non-burst kind of back. A workhorse that doesn't have that wow-factor burst that most like to have in a back. But with the same caliber backups this group will be about 3.7 ypg effective, nothing spectacular just solid.

The passing game will be solid as well, out of necessity they should have some better produciton than last year, which in turn should help on third downs. Expect solid numbers from TE Nick Walker, and WR DJ Hall. Just need someone to get the ball to them.

Lastly the O-Line, at least the starting 5, should pick up from where the ended last year. Just hope that they don't take a step backwards. They need to get better in pass portection, they allowed 37 sacks last season. Also the dept is a bit of a concern, after Smith who might start some this year, really there is no one else.

Overall assessment with an easy home slate except for Auburn to end the season, the Tide should roll to at least 6 wins: Hawaii, UL-M, Duke, Ole Miss, FIU, and Miss St. Although in my opinion Ole Miss might be closer than most think. But I give the Tide at least a 6-1 record at home. The road schedule is a different story. The Arkansas game is a toss up, but I give the nod to the Razorbacks (they have a bit of a chip on their shoulder). Florida is the next road game, I don't think the Gators are going to forget the 31-3 loss from last season, plus the Swamp is even tougher to play in than Razorback Stadium. So going into the Duke game I think Bama will be 3-2. next up is A Tennessee team that was not very good last year, but still Bama only beat them by 3 (6-3) so I think that Tennessee will win a close one. Another tough road test, but I think that LSU is a better team. So I can see Bama being 7-4 going into the Auburn game. I say that Auburn is going to be tough to beat next year, but this game is a toss up because Bama gets them at home, and it is a rivalry game.

Worst case senario 6-6 best case scenario 9-3 most likely 7-5, 6th overall in the SEC (SEC Record 3-5). Bowl Projection: Music City Bowl

[nooneLT]

This is what I see when I breakdown Alabama this year. The biggest glaring point is that they lost seven on a great defensive squad. It is hard to replace that kind of mass exodus, let alone the production that those guys had last year.

The biggest concern on the D-Line will be depth.Tthe starting four will be fine, if Clark and Lee can stay healthy and Gilberry and Greenwood can get some decent pressure on the QB. Bottom line for the D-Line: Get some quality depth, and get to the QB more.

The biggest concern at LB, how much will they drop off. Ryans and Roach were great at stopping the run. Can Simpson, Collins and Jones even come close to that kind of production? I seriously doubt it. That is not a knock on those guys, just a testament to how good Ryans and Roach were.

The secondary is just all but gone, I think Robinson is the only returning starter right. Right away they will have a problem with depth, which means that Grey, Dukes, and Carter will have to step up big time, but I don't see this unit being as good as Bama's unit from a year ago.

I don't see this unit going down in flames, but I do see them being in the middle of the pack as opposed to way out front.


As for the offense, the biggest question will be at QB. How quickly can JPW grasp the offense, Gullion will be gunning for the starting job as well. But it appears that JPW is the QB of the future. How much of the offense will Shula allow him to run. Also Bama needs to get better on converting 3rd downs. Which is why the passing game is going to be more important.

The RB situaiton is solid if not great. Darby is a non-burst kind of back. A workhorse that doesn't have that wow-factor burst that most like to have in a back. But with the same caliber backups this group will be about 3.7 ypg effective, nothing spectacular just solid.

The passing game will be solid as well, out of necessity they should have some better produciton than last year, which in turn should help on third downs. Expect solid numbers from TE Nick Walker, and WR DJ Hall. Just need someone to get the ball to them.

Lastly the O-Line, at least the starting 5, should pick up from where the ended last year. Just hope that they don't take a step backwards. They need to get better in pass portection, they allowed 37 sacks last season. Also the dept is a bit of a concern, after Smith who might start some this year, really there is no one else.

Overall assessment with an easy home slate except for Auburn to end the season, the Tide should roll to at least 6 wins: Hawaii, UL-M, Duke, Ole Miss, FIU, and Miss St. Although in my opinion Ole Miss might be closer than most think. But I give the Tide at least a 6-1 record at home. The road schedule is a different story. The Arkansas game is a toss up, but I give the nod to the Razorbacks (they have a bit of a chip on their shoulder). Florida is the next road game, I don't think the Gators are going to forget the 31-3 loss from last season, plus the Swamp is even tougher to play in than Razorback Stadium. So going into the Duke game I think Bama will be 3-2. next up is A Tennessee team that was not very good last year, but still Bama only beat them by 3 (6-3) so I think that Tennessee will win a close one. Another tough road test, but I think that LSU is a better team. So I can see Bama being 7-4 going into the Auburn game. I say that Auburn is going to be tough to beat next year, but this game is a toss up because Bama gets them at home, and it is a rivalry game.

Worst case senario 6-6 best case scenario 9-3 most likely 7-5, 6th overall in the SEC (SEC Record 3-5). Bowl Projection: Music City Bowl

very well written assessment of alabama coming into this season. i do however disagree with some of the points (guess cause i'm supposed to be optimistic about the team). ramzee robinson is our best cornerback even last year. the fact that he's back is a big deal when it comes to leadership on the field. jeffrey dukes played a heckuva lot last season. he was primarily our 5th DB in our 3-3-5 lineup while backing up roman harper when we went standard 4-3. our biggest concern comes in SS. marcus carter doesn't have that much experience, so shula might put in simeon castille here as he is more suited for a safety position anyway.

your prediction is almost exactly like mine except i think we'll win a close one at arkansas and you think you win a close one at home :p

and i hope we don't go to music city bowl cause we have a terrible record there.

[bigkahuna]

=your prediction is almost exactly like mine except i think we'll win a close one at arkansas and you think you win a close one at home

and i hope we don't go to music city bowl cause we have a terrible record there.


Like I said, it is going to be a toss up in the Ark game, these teams always compete well against each other and I usually give the nod in close series to the home team. I believe in the last 8 years the teams are 4-4 against each other, each winning one at the other's house. Can't get much closer than that.

[nooneLT]

Like I said, it is going to be a toss up in the Ark game, these teams always compete well against each other and I usually give the nod in close series to the home team. I believe in the last 8 years the teams are 4-4 against each other, each winning one at the other's house. Can't get much closer than that.

ya i know...i wish you could play auburn as hard as you guys play us. it always seems like arkansas is always up to play us.

[goallthewayua]

thats because we don't like you noone

[Smithian]

We better go atleast 7-5 with the talent we have, but if we don't win 8, I think Nutt is dead, which is good.

As far as starting QB, it better be Casey Dick. Casey Dick showed that he can be a caretaker for this offense which is all that is needed with the best backfield in the SEC.

We should be able to beat Alabama, but I never expect anything with that coach of our's.

[goallthewayua]

Good to see another Darksider here Smithian, but lets not air out our dirty laundry on this board. Save it for Hogville. That being said, I don't know about Cassey. He played decent last year, but he has had a horrible spring. I know you will see him start the USC game, but unless something happens expect to see Mustain early. Personally I would rather see him sit this one out, but as you said "you know what to expect from that coach of ours." I would love to be wrong though and see Cassey have a great year.

[geechee]

We better go atleast 7-5 with the talent we have, but if we don't win 8, I think Nutt is dead, which is good.


It is y'all's team so do as you please but, in my opinion, it would be a little foolish to fire Nutt just as he has about to put together a breakout team. Y'all have a lot of great pieces that will only be playing together for a 2-3 year period. Why bring in a new coach next year and possibly waste a year with your team having to get used to a whole new set of coaches? This in itself could cause McFadden to leave early for the NFL. This is a building year for y'all. Accept it as that and hope for even better results.

[goallthewayua]

It is y'all's team so do as you please but, in my opinion, it would be a little foolish to fire Nutt just as he has about to put together a breakout team. Y'all have a lot of great pieces that will only be playing together for a 2-3 year period. Why bring in a new coach next year and possibly waste a year with your team having to get used to a whole new set of coaches? This in itself could cause McFadden to leave early for the NFL. This is a building year for y'all. Accept it as that and hope for even better results.

I respect your opinion geechee, but I've heard "he is about to put together a breakout team" for the last eight years. (well with the exception of the last two which he did state would be rebuilding years) Anyway, I'm not going to drag the whole Nutt thing into this board (believe me you don't want it here). I know most fans in the SEC think he is a great guy and a good coach (and the majority of Arkansas fans believe the same), but if you ask someone who really follows Arkansas football they can give you AT LEAST twenty reasons off the top of their head why he should be replaced. That being said let me pose a hypothetical situation to you and let me get an honest answer. Lets say that after this year Richt gets and offer and goes to the NFL. The next day Evans has a press conference and says that your next head coach is a toss up between Houston Nutt and lets say someone like Butch Davis for example. Who would you want and why?

[geechee]

I respect your opinion geechee, but I've heard "he is about to put together a breakout team" for the last eight years. (well with the exception of the last two which he did state would be rebuilding years) Anyway, I'm not going to drag the whole Nutt thing into this board (believe me you don't want it here). I know most fans in the SEC think he is a great guy and a good coach (and the majority of Arkansas fans believe the same), but if you ask someone who really follows Arkansas football they can give you AT LEAST twenty reasons off the top of their head why he should be replaced. That being said let me pose a hypothetical situation to you and let me get an honest answer. Lets say that after this year Richt gets and offer and goes to the NFL. The next day Evans has a press conference and says that your next head coach is a toss up between Houston Nutt and lets say someone like Butch Davis for example. Who would you want and why?

Y'all have never had in the last 8 years the talent you have now, but it is going to take a year of playing together for them to get it down. Y'all brought in Mustain's damn high school coach. I doubt he will be happy seeing a new coach coming in next year and you can bet your life that McFadden will go pro earlier if this all happens. Do you really want to risk this team having to learn a whole new system? As I said, it is your team. Do as you please, but it will be a huge mistake.

Just as an example; in 1979 UGA fans were screaming for Dooley's head and wanted him gone. The school did the exact opposite however by appointing him the AD as well as the head coach. There were some very pissed off fans but Dooley for his part responded by winning the NC the very next season.

Your argument about UGA is moot because Richt is not going to the NFL. He is the king in the #1 college town in America. He is also a teaching coach and there is not much to teach in the NFL. Last but not least, he watched as Spurrier made the same mistake for him already.

[goallthewayua]

Your argument about UGA is moot because Richt is not going to the NFL. He is the king in the #1 college town in America.

Like I said geechee I respect your opinion but damn sometimes you are hard to talk to. What part of hypothetical don't you understand? Nevermind thats RETORICAL so you don't have to answer. Anyway, I was wondering when the Malzahn hire would surface here so lets talk about it. First, Malzahn isn't just a typical high school coach who teaches a class or something and just happens to coach in his spare time. He has either won or been to state at every program he has ever coached (and some of his teams had no talent whatsoever). Here is an article if your interested http://www.hogcall.com/news/news.asp?articleid=16698
We have been trying to get him on board at the university for years. If you have ever seen Friday night lights Malzahn is Gary Gaines. He wrote a book "The Hurry-Up, No-Huddle: An Offensive Philosophy" Here is the link if you want it http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1585186546/ref=pd_sl_aw_alx-jeb-9-1_book_4988028_2/103-5449804-0671857?n=283155
If you decide to look at it scroll down to the bottom and read the editorial reviews and take a look at the about the author section especially the part about how at Shiloah Christian (which were not talented teams) his offenses lead the nation in offense by averaging 7,000 yards per season. That being said I'm not sayng he will be the next Spurrier, but he is definately an SEC caliber OC and is very capable of turning around a slugish offense especially in the passing game. So good fit for Arkansas. I know it looks to the rest of country like we just hired him to get Williams, Mustain, Cleveland ect, (and truthfully I would be lying if I said it didn't have something to do with it), but not to the extent to which yal probably think. We have been trying to get him for a while.

Y'all have never had in the last 8 years the talent you have now

How about 2004 when we had 2 first round draft picks, one third round, one fourth round, one fifth round, one sixth round and seven free agents signed. Oh and let me add another first round pick that started at quarterback that year, but was taken the next year. Sounds pretty untalented, but thats okay we went to the prestigous liberty bowl that year so its all good. Hurray for Nutt he is such a nice guy!

doubt he will be happy seeing a new coach coming in next year and you can bet your life that McFadden will go pro earlier if this all happens.

I'll bet my life that McFadden wouldn't leave early because Nutt got fired. I doubt Nutt leaving would have that much affect on McFadden at all. Infact McFadden probably hasn't stop smiling since Malhzan became OC since he (Malhzan) has already stated that his game plan next year is to get him the ball as much and anyway that he can. Plus if McFadden progresses the way everyone thinks then he will leave his junior year anyway, but one thing about Arkansas we may not win the SEC, but we will have a high powered running back. Felix won't leave early so it wouldn't suck as bad, but would definately suck.

I don't remember the Dooley reference you made so I can't comment. Freaking geechee

[geechee]

Why do I need to read about your OC? I never said anything about him except that Mustain would probably not like having to adjust to a new one when y'all fire Nutt. You are the one who wants to take the chance of losing him when a new head coach comes aboard. Most like to hire their own people. Are you trying to tell me y'all had a 5 star QB and a 5 star RB on the field at the same time in 2004? How many players get drafted into the NFL does not always have something to do with how well a team plays in the NCAA, just look at NC State. Finally, I don't really care. Fire the freakin guy. You are very naive however, if you think McFadden would not go pro early because of it.

"one thing about Arkansas we may not win the SEC, but we will have a high powered running back."

I don't understand the above statement at all. Most other fans don't really care about individual achievements. We'd much rather win the SEC.

What I said about Dooley was that there were fans all over the state of Georgia screaming for Dooley's head after the end of the '79 season and within a year, Dooley won the NC and those folks were never heard from again.

[goallthewayua]

What I said about Dooley was that there were fans all over the state of Georgia screaming for Dooley's head after the end of the '79 season and within a year, Dooley won the NC and those folks were never heard from again.

I care about your Dooley situation about as much as you care about my OC.

"one thing about Arkansas we may not win the SEC, but we will have a high powered running back."

I was joking, but evidently I'll put sarcasm in the geechee no understand box along with hypothetical, retorical, ect. ect.

Why do I need to read about your OC? I never said anything about him except that Mustain would probably not like having to adjust to a new one when y'all fire Nutt. You are the one who wants to take the chance of losing him when a new head coach comes aboard. Most like to hire their own people.

Actually pretty well put and better then "Y'all brought in Mustain's damn high school coach. I doubt he will be happy seeing a new coach coming in next year." It is one of the few cons that is being discussed around the state. Everyonce and a while you make a good, but obvious point. Thats what I like about Geechee!

Why am I naive to think that McFadden wouldn't base his decision to leave early on Houston Nutt getting fired? If he progresses like I think he will then I could think of about ten million reasons why he would leave and none have a picture of Nutt on them. But we are in agreement I do think he will leave early if he does what we think he will do the next two years. Hate to say it.

[geechee]

Why are you taking this so personal dude. I wasn't asking you to care about "my Dooley situation", there is no "Dooley situation". I can't believe you missed the whole point of my post. The point was that if the fans had gotten there way just after the 79 season, Dooley would have been fired and there would have been no undefeated season in 1980 and no NC. My mentioning your OC was to back him up or can you not see that. A new head coach usually means a new OC and you just got this one. I was trying to show you what can happen when fans think the grass is always greener on the other side. Could you not see this? Fire the freakin guy, hell get a rope and string him up. You have set yourself up for failure with all this defeatist talk about firing your coach and the season does not even begin for three months. Unless y'all are going to fire the guy this Summer, which is not likely, y'all should let the guy coach without having to listen to all this. It can in no way be healthy for your team. You can never win if, you are expecting to lose.

[Smithian]

goal, this feels like battling the huggers and you're doing well enough for me to watch this one.

What is your name on Hogville?

Also, Casey has one s.