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By B.J. Bennett
SouthernPigskin.com Senior Editor
SouthernPigskin.com Senior Editor B.J. Bennett takes a quick off-season look at the Arkansas Razorbacks. Follow us on Twitter at Twitter.com/SouthernPigskin. Become a fan of us on Facebook at the SouthernPigskin.com Facebook Page
2009 Recap - The Razorbacks finished last season as one of the hottest teams in college football, winning five of their last six games. The only blemish from Halloween on was a three point loss on the road at LSU. Arkansas defeated East Carolina in a wild Liberty Bowl in Memphis. The Hogs were very competitive in every game on their schedule save an early season romp on the road at the hands of eventual national champion Alabama. Arkansas, not Florida, led the SEC in scoring offense last season with 36 points per game.
Biggest Strength - Bobby Petrino has without question the premier quarterback in the SEC, as Ryan Mallett returns after leading the league in passing yards with 3,624 and passing touchdowns with 30. The strong-armed flame-thrower has been the ideal fit for Petrino's attack and has really developed a great command of the scheme. Twice in the month of November he threw five touchdown passes in a game. His top five pass catchers return, including receiver Greg Childs (894 yards) and tight end D.J. Williams (32 receptions). Mallett should be a legitimate Heisman Trophy contender this fall.
Biggest Question - Can this team defend the pass? Arkansas ranked last in the SEC and 104th nationally with 3,230 passing yards allowed a year ago. The secondary did finish the season on a high note with solid performances against Mississippi State, LSU and East Carolina. Safety Tramain Thomas had a standout performance in the Liberty Bowl win. That confident, aggressive play must carry over into spring practice. This team can throw for as many yards as it wants, but won't be elite until they can prevent opposing quarterbacks from doing the same.
Top Returnee, Offense - Ryan Mallett, QB
Top Returnee, Defense - Jerry Franklin, LB
Rising Star - Ronnie Wingo, RB
Newcomer to Watch - Calvin Barnett, DT
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