Razorbacks report: Notes, quotes

March 26, 2008
The Sports Xchange

Notes, quotes · Inside slant · Strategy and personnel

SPRING OBJECTIVES
In addition to installing new offensive and defensive systems, the Razorbacks must answer plenty of questions at quarterback, running back, fullback, wide receiver, cornerback, safety and middle linebacker.

BUILDING BLOCKS
The Razorbacks return experienced players on the offensive and defensive line, starting with one of the nation's best centers in senior Jonathan Luigs. Two juniors, CB Jerrell Norton and OLB Freddie Fairchild, have talent but have a lot of growing up to do.

SCHEDULE SITUATION
Opening with Western Illinois and Louisiana-Monroe gives Arkansas a chance to win through early growing pains, but reality hits when the Razorbacks play at Texas on Sept. 13. Four straight games against Texas, Alabama, Florida and Auburn will go a long way toward determining Arkansas' season.

QUOTE TO NOTE
"I think the first thing is the relationship with the players. You really miss that. You miss that you are in the education business and you are helping them develop habits, helping them grow up and do things right. Football is part of that, but there are other aspects to it. I think you definitely miss the crowds, the enthusiasm, the bands. There aren't any bands in the NFL. It's just different. It's a whole different atmosphere. There's nothing like Saturday in college football." -- New Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino, on returning to college football after an ugly season in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons.