By Jimmy Hyams 
Arkansas coach Sam Pittman described Tennessee as a “big physical good-looking team that loves to throw the ball deep.’’
Arkansas (2-3) hosts Tennessee (2-3) Saturday at 7:30 on the SEC Network.
Pittman, a former Tennessee offensive line coach in his first year at Arkansas, said he’s very impressed with UT’s offensive line, he said UT’s defensive front is “very big and powerful’’ and Henry To’o To’o is a “wonderful linebacker.’’
Pittman said UT’s safeties are an “extension of the linebacker group because they will run and hit.’’ He also said you can see Pruitt’s “fingerprints all over’’ the defense.
Tennessee is a “big, physical team that is playing well,’’ Pittman said, even though the Vols have lost three in a row in lop-sided fashion to Georgia, Kentucky and Alabama.
Pittman said Arkansas QB Feleipe Franks, a Florida transfer, was elected a team captain: “That tells you his leadership skills have been outstanding. He’s a tough kid. He’s getting better each week throwing the ball, taking care of the ball. .. We’ve been very fortunate he elected to transfer to Arkansas.’’
Pittman said he’s not surprised by Franks’ mobility. “We knew he could run when we recruited him.’’ Pittman said he used Franks more in the run game against Texas A&M (13 for 91) because “we needed to even the numbers in the box.’’ Pittman called Franks and “adequate’’ runner who likes to run.
Pittman and Vols offensive coordinator Jim Chaney are long-time friends who have coached together at several schools (Tennessee, Arkansas, Georgia).
Pittman said if Chaney could “turn around and hand off 75 times, he’ll do it.’’
Pittman said Arkansas needs more size along the defensive line and he’s worried about UT’s run game.
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