Kentucky Trails after 1 quarter of action

Arkansas 7, Kentucky 0

First Quarter

To open the game the Arkansas Razorbacks won the toss and decided to defer to the second half. Forcing the Cats to start on offense to begin the game, Kentucky continued their struggles from last week, as the opening drive amounted three yards in three plays and resulted in a quick punt.

Just as Kentucky picked up where they left off last week, so did Arkansas. Senior QB Casey Dick was able to hit receivers early and kept the Cats defense guessing with the SEC’s leading rusher Michael Smith. But the movement was ended by senior corner David Smith who intercepted the ball at the Kentucky four to end the Razorback drive.

The seceding drive, quarterback Mike Hartline made his usual mistake by throwing into coverage and getting picked off. The interception was run back into the redzone.

With tremendous field position and a winded defense, Arkansas was again able to move the ball at will, however this time come away with points, as running back Michael Smith pounded the ball in from two yards out to get the early lead.

Off the turnover, Rich Brooks went to freshman Randall Cobb under center. Almost instantaneously the offense became alive. The line was opening holes, running backs ran with vision, and receivers discovered their hands. However, the initial surge of production stalled and again the Cats were forced to punt. But, the promise shown by the offense might be a sign of good things to come.

KEYS-

Arkansas has moved the ball at will against the Kentucky defense. Michael Smith has already accrewed 82 yards on the ground. However, the yards have only contributed to seven points as Casey Dick killed a drive by an interception and Michael Smith fumbled on the goal line.

---Kentucky’s defense is picking up the offensive slack, but with the second series of Randall Cobb’s quarterbacking under way, the offense might be able to muster some type of momentum through the remainder of the game.