No. 2 QB gets plenty of practice

FAYETTEVILLE — Nathan Dick has taken snaps at quarterback with Arkansas’ first-team offense all week as his brother, Casey, recovers from a concussion.

Nathan Dick, a redshirt freshman, saw his first collegiate action last Saturday, leading the Razorbacks 80 yards for a fourth-quarter touchdown in a 34-21 loss at South Carolina.

“I felt confident when I went in there that I was going to be able to do that,” he said. “I was really excited to jump in there and finally get to play on a college level.”

Nathan Dick completed 4 of 8 passes for 38 yards on the scoring drive, and had an apparent touchdown throw to Lucas Miller wiped out by a penalty.

Because the return date of Casey Dick, a senior, is uncertain, Nathan Dick has had to prepare as if he might start on Nov. 22 at Mississippi State.

“He’s done a pretty good job,” UA offensive coordinator Paul Petrino said. “It’s been real good for him. He’s gotten a ton of reps and I think he’s improved a lot in the last two days.” Petrino was asked if he’d be comfortable having to start Nathan Dick in Starkville, Miss. “Yeah, that’s what’s great about him getting the reps,” he said. “If that’s the scenario, then we’re 100 percent behind him and go get after it.” Nathan Dick seemed to think his brother would bounce back successfully after taking a hit to the helmet that caused his fourth-quarter concussion. “He got dinged up a little bit, but I think he’s doing fine,” he said. “We’re looking forward to having him back.”

Young talent Arkansas assistant coaches have been asked the past couple of days which of the younger players, who have been taking extra practice reps when the veterans finish, have been standing out in practice.

Defensive coordinator Willy Robinson pointed out linebackers Jelani Smith, Tenarius Wright and Khiry Battle, cornerback Greg Gatson, defensive tackle Alfred Davis and defensive backs Matt Marshall and Chris Raggett. Smith started the first two games of the year before suffering a major hand injury that will likely allow him to take a medical redshirt.

Offensive coordinator Paul Petrino brought up quarterback Ryan Mallett, who will be a sophomore next season after transferring from Michigan, and Matt Hall.

“I think all the rest of the young guys are playing on the defensive side of the ball,” he said with a laugh.

Coach Bobby Petrino and Paul Petrino have sounded enthusiastic about Mallett’s performances the past couple of days.

“He just has an air about himself when he steps in the huddle,” Paul Petrino said. “And the way he handles himself. He’s just a natural leader that people are going to follow.”

Personnel report

Quarterback Casey Dick (concussion ) and tailback Michael Smith (shoulder ) have missed all three practices this week and are questionable for resuming workouts next Tuesday.... Receiver Joe Adams has been playing with an injured hamstring the past several weeks. Though it hasn’t sidelined the freshman, it has slowed his production. Adams is still the only Arkansas player to have a reception in every game, but he has only five catches for 60 yards in the past three games combined.... Defensive end Adrian Davis is expected back at near full strength by next Tuesday after missing two games with a sprained knee.