FAYETTEVILLE — While they continue their quests to win state tittles, several of Arkansas top players and pledges are keeping an eye on the happenings in Fayetteville as the Razorbacks search for a new head coach.
Greenwood quarterback and Arkansas commit Connor Noland will lead his Bulldogs (12-0) against Pine Bluff (11-1) on Friday at 7 p.m. in the Class 6A championship game at Little Rock’s War Memorial Stadium. He is hoping for a passionate hire.
The front-runners to replace Bret Bielema seem to be Auburn coach Gus Malzahn, Memphis coach Mike Norvell, Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables and SMU coach Chad Morris.
“I just want them to fine a person that is passionate and determined,” Noland said. “I think those two things will help to get the program moving into the right direction. I’m feeling good about it, and I believe they will find the right person to lead the Razorbacks.”
Noland, who has passed for 2,494 yards and 31 touchdowns with 5 interceptions, will be trying to grab his first state championship and the Bulldogs’ fourth in eight years.
“We are very excited about the opportunity to being home a state championship,” Noland said. “We have been there before and are looking to finish strong.”
Pulaski Academy offensive lineman and Arkansas pledge Luke Jones will be playing for a fourth straight state title when the Bruins (13-0) face Little Rock McClellan (10-3) Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at War Memorial.
“It's crazy to be playing in the state championship for the fourth year in a row,” Jones said. “But we've worked hard all year and have been lead by an amazing coaching staff that gets us prepared to play every week.
“As for the Arkansas coaching change it sucks that Coach (Bret Bielema) had to go. He was one of the big reasons I committed to Arkansas. I hope the new coach that comes in has the same passion for football as Coach B did.”