FAYETTEVILLE — University of Arkansas Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek provided an update on the Southwest Classic series in a letter to Razorback fans posted Wednesday to the UA athletic department’s website.
Yurachek wrote that this year’s game against Texas A&M, won 42-31 on Saturday by the No. 8 Aggies, was due to the extenuating circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic, and that next year’s game will stay on track to be played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, as per the contract.
“When the move was initially made, I expressed a desire to explore an opportunity to play a game in Arkansas as well,” Yurachek wrote. “However, based on discussions around our existing agreement, it became apparent that the addition of another on-campus game as part of a traditional 2021 schedule would likely necessitate an extension of that agreement beyond 2024.
“While we have certainly enjoyed this long-standing series at AT&T Stadium, I did not feel that it was appropriate to make a decision on extending the agreement at this time.”
Yurachek added that if circumstances dictate, the site for the 2021 game could be reconsidered and the Razorbacks would work with Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, the stadium and Texas A&M to find a solution.
Boyd breakout
It took five games and recovering from an ankle injury, but senior tailback Rakeem Boyd notched his first 100-yard game Saturday at No. 8 Texas A&M, the team with which he originally signed out of high school at Houston Stratford.
Boyd had 18 carries for 100 yards, including a 14-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter for his ninth career 100-yard outing and his first of the year.
“Man, it feels pretty good to have a breakout game after what I’ve been going through … with injuries and stuff like that,” he said. “I’m all better now.”
Boyd admitted having a big game against the Aggies was meaningful.
“That did mean a lot to me, getting 100 yards against the No. 8 opponent in the country, it was awesome for me and my O-line,” Boyd said.
Eyeing Franks
Senior Bowl executive director Jim Nagy said University of Arkansas quarterback Feleipe Franks is drawing attention from NFL scouts as he prepares for the final five games of his college career.
Franks ranks among the SEC leaders with 66% pass completions (105 of 159), 1,213 passing yards, an 11-3 touchdown-to-interception rate and good rushing numbers.
Nagy posted this on his Twitter account on Tuesday: “One QB generating draftable buzz among NFL scouts is @RazorbackFB Felipe Franks (@18franks). Florida grad transfer has high-end physical traits and he’s always made some wow-type throws but this year he’s playing steadier and getting strong endorsements from Arkansas staff.”
Arkansas Coach Sam Pittman said he was impressed with the way Franks displayed his leadership skills during the covid-19 slowdown and earned a captain’s role despite not going through spring ball with the Razorbacks.
“He’s a tough kid,” Pittman said. “I think he’s getting better each week throwing the football. He’s taking care of the football.”