Hogs' Sam Pittman Has Confidence in Younger Players

Razorbacks' coach still displaying optimism, which isn't surprising

Author:
Daniel Shi
Updated:
Aug 11, 2023 1:57 PM EDT
Original:
Aug 10, 2023

In this story:

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark — Arkansas coach Sam Pittman expressed optimism that the team was in a good place as fall camp moved into pads for the first day. He was also bullish that the team had plugged its biggest holes and addressed major areas of need heading into the new season.

“I like what we’re going,” Pittman said. “We're throwing and catching the ball well. You know, defensively I think we’re keeping the edge well, running to the ball well and we’re finding some more linebackers and corners.”

Pittman also singled out specific young players he says can play a pivotal role in improving last season's 7-6 record.

“I feel a lot better about tight ends than I did coming into camp,” Pittman said. “I’ll be honest with you guys, my biggest concern was tight end and linebacker and with Brad) Spence and (Alex) Sanford coming on, we’ll be fine at linebacker.

Pittman also said he would rather not think about the many implications conference realignment might have on the future of the program and did not think the SEC and the Hogs would feel the ripple effects like some other programs.

“Some things really are out of our control,” Pittman said. "If they are out of our control, I don't know what my opinion really matters to be perfectly honest with you. It doesn't affect me. It doesn't affect our team. It doesn't affect the state of Arkansas."

However, Pittman also conceded with the Pac-12 folding, it could open doors for the Hogs to have a wider scope in terms of recruiting.

“We’ve talked about that as a staff,” Pittman said. “You know if they are going to travel to Michigan and all that, they can travel here and be a lot closer. They still gotta fly over a whole lot of schools, but that’s a great thought.

Meanwhile, the battle for three offensive line spots continues to heat up. With only seniors Beaux Limmer and Brady Latham sure-fire starters and the rest of the line very much undecided, Pittman praised the improvement of sophomore Devon Manuel throughout the offseason.

"Always been a great athlete, but right now he believes he’s a good player, and he is. It’s come with success on different reps because of his technique and hands. I’m telling you right now he’s going to be a great player,” Pittman said.

Arkansas will scrimmage on Saturday as we move ever closer to Arkansas’ season opener against Western Carolina in Little Rock on Sep. 2. The game will be streamed on ESPN+.