Arkansas Football Report: ‘Big But Slow’ Comment Heard by Razorbacks
FAYETTEVILLE, AR – A seemingly innocent comment has sparked a fiery response from the Arkansas Razorbacks football team as they prepare for their upcoming matchup. During a recent interview, an anonymous scout referred to the Razorbacks’ offensive line as “big but slow,” a remark that immediately caught the attention of head coach Sam Pittman and his players.
The comment, made during a scouting report on Arkansas’ offensive line ahead of their next game, has set the stage for added motivation among the Hogs. “Big but slow” seems to focus on the size of the Razorbacks’ linemen, many of whom measure in at well over 300 pounds, but suggests a lack of speed or quickness. It’s a description that does not sit well with a unit known for its physicality and dominance at the point of attack.
Pittman Defends the Line
Head coach Sam Pittman, who has earned a reputation as one of the country’s best offensive line coaches, wasted no time firing back at the critique. “We take pride in being big, but we’re also a lot more athletic than some people realize,” Pittman said during his weekly press conference. “These guys move well. Are they as fast as a wide receiver? No. But they don’t have to be. They need to be able to protect our quarterback and open holes for our running backs, and that’s what they do.”
The Razorbacks’ offensive line has been a major point of emphasis in the offseason, with several returning starters and a few promising newcomers. The line has been an integral part of the team’s success in recent years, especially in the ground game, where Arkansas has leaned heavily on a strong rushing attack. This season, the Razorbacks are averaging 4.5 yards per carry and have had success moving the ball with physical runs, particularly in short-yardage situations.
Player Reactions
Several players on the line took exception to the “big but slow” label, with senior tackle Dalton Wagner offering a pointed response. “I don’t know who said it, but I can tell you this—we’re coming out to prove them wrong,” Wagner said. “We’ve been working too hard this offseason to let anyone define us by a stereotype. If they think we’re slow, they’re in for a surprise.”
Junior guard Beaux Limmer echoed Wagner’s sentiment, stating that the offensive line is “faster than people give us credit for.” “People think just because we’re big we can’t move. Well, we’re gonna show them,” Limmer said, adding that the line has been focusing on improving their lateral quickness and agility in practice.
What’s Next for Arkansas?
The Razorbacks’ offensive line will get a chance to prove their critics wrong when they take the field against [Opponent] this weekend. Arkansas has faced a tough schedule, and with SEC play heating up, the line will need to continue to play at a high level to keep quarterback KJ Jefferson upright and create running lanes for star running back Raheim “Rocket” Sanders.
While the “big but slow” comment may have stung, it has undeniably added fuel to the fire for a unit that prides itself on physical dominance. With Pittman leading the charge, expect the offensive line to come out hungry, looking to make a statement and show that they are more than just a big, slow group—they are a force to be reckoned with.
As the Razorbacks prepare for their next challenge, one thing is clear: they are ready to prove that their size is a strength, not a limitation.
Stay tuned to Whole Hog Sports for more updates on Arkansas football.
