FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas quarterback Feleipe Franks was one of the standouts in the Razorbacks' first scrimmage of training camp Friday.
According to a team spokesperson, the graduate transfer from Florida threw four touchdown passes – two to redshirt freshman tight end Hudson Henry, and one each to receivers Mike Woods and Treylon Burks. Franks' success through the air was an encouraging note for fans who have endured the shaky play of seven quarterbacks over the last two seasons.
Franks, who spoke to reporters via Zoom on Monday, said his confidence is high as he continues to settle into offensive coordinator Kendal Briles' scheme.
"I feel like it’s getting better," Franks said of his comfort level running the offense. "We’re taking steps. We’re stacking good practices on top of good practices. I think that’s all that matters right now. Like, how the execution is going, that’s what we need to be focused on right now. Can we execute every play at a high level?
"Right now, I think that we’re getting better and better. We’re better than Week 2. (Monday's) practice was better than than the start of Week 2. I think we’re headed in the right direction."
Franks hesitated when asked to estimate his completion percentage so far in practices, but he did finally land on "over 70 hopefully." He also noted that he has not thrown many interceptions.
Franks talked up his skill players, namely running back Rakeem Boyd and Burks, with whom he is developing a strong connection. Arkansas coach Sam Pittman said the offense got the ball in Burks' hands early in Friday's scrimmage and the receiver "took off."
"I’m excited to watch them play because one of my favorite things to do is just get the ball out of my hands and watch those guys do their thing," Franks said. "I’m excited to watch them play — all of them — and I think it’s going to be a fun ride. I’m excited for it.”
Franks' lower-leg injury against Kentucky in the Gators' third game last season has been well documented. He is not expecting the ankle to be on his mind when he takes the field against Georgia on Sept. 26.
He feels fully healthy and is ready to get back on the field again, putting the low point of his Gators career on the back burner.
"I think my confidence is through the roof right now," Franks said. "We had a scrimmage this past Friday and I felt wonderful, 100 percent. I take it personally every rep to treat it like a game rep. So, to say that when game time comes, that’s going to be my first game rep, I think that would be far from (the truth).
"That’s not just me, but everybody on our offense. (We're) taking reps as if we’re in the game, so when Saturdays come, they come easy."
Woods has been impressed with Franks' play to this point. Timing on routes is coming together, and Woods likes the fact Franks is decisive.
"I think he looks great," Woods said. "He makes his reads real quick. As soon as you come out of the break, the ball is right there. He knows audibles at the line and different things to do.
"He's really experienced and mature, and he knows how to run an offense."
Working closely with Briles is helping Franks fall into a rhythm when in charge of the offense. He feels he is learning a lot and being put in a position to succeed.
According to Pittman, Franks put together his most accurate day of the preseason Friday.
"I love working with him," Franks said of Briles. "And then when it comes to football, (he's) smart and knows what he’s talking about. That’s the kind of guy you want to be surrounded by. I’ve loved every bit of it.
"He’s doing a great job with me."