The Traveler

Issue date: 10/17/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Jonathan Gibson Junior running back Michael Smith leads the SEC with 119.8 rushing yards per game.

With the talent and the variety of styles they've faced this season, the Arkansas Razorbacks (3-3, 1-2 Southeastern Conference) will have some valuable experience to draw from when they face off with the Kentucky Wildcats (4-2, 0-2 SEC).

This Saturday, the Hogs will look to use that experience to pick up their second consecutive SEC road win when they travel to Lexington, Ky. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. and will be televised on ESPNU.

"They're a little like some of the teams we've played," Arkansas offensive coordinator Paul Petrino said.

Concurrently, the Wildcats also boast one of the stingiest defenses in the nation that will likely feature a few unique flourishes.

"They play a lot of press man," Petrino said. "They like to play a lot of what we call 'eight press' which is like quarter coverage with the cornerbacks pressed outside."

This style has aided the Kentucky defense in holding opponents to 10.5 points per game, ranking them third nationally. In turnovers gained, they rank eighth with 16 in six games including an even eight interceptions and eight fumbles.

To Petrino, there are two elements needed for the Razorback offense to overcome such a vaunted defense - understanding and speed.

"We just have to get ready and understand exactly what they are doing and why they are doing it, so we can beat them to the punch and play faster than they do," Petrino said. "If we can get to our technique faster than they do and have our pads lower than theirs then we'll have a chance at success."

The first step in moving the ball against Kentucky will be the UA offensive line, which has sparked an increased emotional intensity around the team as of late. Against Auburn, the line paved the way for 416 total offensive yards, more than doubling the Tigers' production.

In practice this week, they have kept the team focused with their excitement and upbeat attitude.

"The offensive line has really been executing in practice lately," Razorback head coach Bobby Petrino said. "They continue to lead the team and provide us with a lot of energy and a lot of emotion throughout practice."

Defensively, the Hogs will be dealing with a Wildcat offense that has struggled to move the ball this season. Their total offense is ranked No. 96 nationally, averaging 317 yards per game.

Continued...

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