To Protect and Serve

Arkansas (’98: 9-3, 6-2 SEC)

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Posted: Wednesday August 11, 1999 04:42 PM

The Plot

Arkansas, two plays away from an undefeated regular season in 1998, isn't going to sneak up on anyone this season. Even so, a 9-3 season and a New Year's Day bowl berth is something to call the hogs over. But don't blame Arkansas for being "protective" of its '98 success. The offensive line returns only one starter. And the more defensive linemen that sneak up on quarterback Clint Stoerner, the worse off the Hogs will be in '99.

The Director

Houston Nutt -- second season, 9-3; 45-25 overall

Starring

WR Anthony Lucas -- The only receiver in Arkansas history to have a 1,000-yard season. He did it by averaging an amazing 23.4 yards a reception in '98.
QB Clint Stoerner -- Wants to be remembered for something other than "The Fumble" against Tennessee last November. A Western Division title will do that.

Co-Starring

FS Kenoy Kennedy -- Perhaps the hardest hitter in the SEC and was the top tackler for the nation's sixth-best rushing defense -- as a free safety.
RB Chrys Chukwuma -- Hard name to spell, hard guy to tackle. Was fifth in the SEC in rushing last year, averaging 87 yards a game.

And introducing

RB Cedric Cobbs -- Cobbs will be the most high-profile walk-on at Arkansas in some time. The Parade All-American, who rushed for 2,135 yards at Little Rock's Fair High School last season, finally qualified in June after passing the ACT.

Why it will work

The offensive line matures expeditiously, helping out the Hogs' wealth of talent at the skill positions.

Why it won't

Offensive-line questions aside, the Razorbacks have to play at Alabama and LSU -- their two chief competitors for the West crown.

Our critics' review

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