LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) -- THV's Mark Edwards sits down with Jim Harris, editor for ArkansasSports360.com to talk about the Hogs defense in the season opener.
Jim Harris says the initial reaction from most fans was that the defense needs some work and has some areas to "clean up." But, Harris says, it's important to keep in mind that it's just the season opener.
Jack Crowe brings a formidable offense with Jacksonville St. but it's been said that Arkansas' defense would be able to stop the Gamecock offense without trouble. Harris says the defense may have seemed slow to start, but fans shouldn't worry.
Jacksonville St. offense finished with 227 passing yards, 95 rushing yards, 20 first downs and converted 8-19 on third downs.
The defense performed well enough to draw an award from the SEC on Monday. Defensive End Chris Smith was named the co-defensive player of the week. Smith had six tackles, one sack and one QB pressure.