FAYETTEVILLE — When Arkansas linebacker Jerico Nelson went to watch film Sunday afternoon, the sophomore was happy to see a familiar face back in the Broyles Center: defensive coordinator Willy Robinson.

“He was back to himself, talking and laughing,” Nelson said, recounting his conversation with the coach. “He was trying to get the plays together for this game.”

It was a sigh of relief for the Razorbacks, who experienced what coach Bobby Petrino called a “scare” when Robinson was taken to the hospital last Friday.

The 53-year-old is back at work after being treated for what Arkansas termed an “infection” and should be ready to return to his place on the sideline for Saturday’s game against Mississippi State in Little Rock.

“He’s ornery enough too, that’s for sure,” Petrino said. “It’s hard to get him out of the building.”

Robinson spent Friday night inthe hospital before being released Saturday.

He was resting at home while linebackers coach Reggie Johnson assumed play-calling duties during the 56-20 win against Troy.

Arkansas dedicated the game to Robinson and the defense turned in a solid effort. The Hogs surrendered more than 400 yards, but held strong in the red zone once again and managed to force four Troy turnovers in the win.

“I thought the entire defensive staff and players accepted the challenge and really prepared well after the fact when Willy was out,” Petrino said.

Robinson was well enough to return to work Sunday, but Arkansas tried to limit his hours.Petrino said he also planned to send Robinson home early Monday night, too, so the coach could continue to work his way back.

Petrino said Robinson isn’t his first coach who had to miss time on the job for health reasons. Eating properly and exercising can be problematic for coaches who log long hours during football season. Petrino pointed the finger at himself, saying his vice is drinking co◊ee.

However, Petrino said Robinson’s incident was an eye-opener for everyone on Arkansas’ coaching staff.

“It is certainly a concern,” Petrino said. “It hits all of us at home when something like that happens.”

Sports, Pages 9 on 11/17/2009