Sam Pittman explains focus on ending losing streak, not sending coaches on recruiting trips

As Arkansas has struggled this season — the Razorbacks are on a six-game losing streak — head coach Sam Pittman has made some stark choices. Another one came this week as Arkansas prepared to travel to Florida after a bye week.

Pittman decided not to send coaches out on the road recruiting, choosing instead to have them pour their energy into ending the losing skid. This decision comes after offensive coordinator Dan Enos was fired following the most recent loss, and Pittman explained it on the SEC coaches teleconference on Wednesday.

“We’re certainly recruiting but wins have a lot to do, will help you a lot in recruiting. And we need to put a great product — we owe it to our kids on the team to put a great, we’ve gotta help them put a great product on the field. A nice team on the field. Especially since we’ve made the change at offensive coordinator, there’s so many things that we have to get right offensively. Defense has to defend and play well, special teams as well,” Pittman said.

Pittman said it was fair to consider it a circling-the-wagons move, and one he’s willing to make to get a much-needed win. But he and his staff will still be recruiting.

“We’re certainly recruiting but I did not want to send guys out on the road. When we went to Florida, I wanted them with the team because we need to win the game,” Pittman said.

Arkansas might have a key offensive weapon available vs. the Gators

One of Arkansas‘ biggest stars has been limited for most of the season, with running back Raheim “Rocket” Sanders sidelined since early October due to a knee injury.

There’s a chance that could change this week against Florida, with a more optimistic outlook provided by Pittman on Wednesday.

“There’s a chance that he’ll be available,” Pittman said. “He has practiced, Monday and Tuesday. Limited basis, but he has practiced. So we’re hoping that he’ll be available on Saturday.”

Sanders has played in just three games this season and has never really gotten rolling, failing to top the 100-yard mark in any outing.

He’s got 34 carries for 91 yards and two touchdowns, as well as seven catches for 58 yards.

But Sanders’ potential is far beyond what those numbers might suggest. He’s already proven it as one of the league’s best rushers in 2022. Sanders was an absolute monster last season.

The Arkansas tailback tallied 1,426 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns. He also added 28 catches for 271 yards and two touchdowns.

Suffice it to say, having Sanders available against Florida would be a welcomed boost for an Arkansas team desperately searching for a spark.