Arkansas Prepares for Defensive Battle

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UA Sports Information) - The Razorbacks (2-3, 0-2 SEC) continued to prepare for their Southeastern Conference match-up against Auburn (4-1, 2-0 SEC) by practicing for a little over 90 minutes in shorts and shells. Arkansas concentrated on the Tigers defense and stopping their running game. "We had a good day of concentration and thats what its going to take on every play," Arkansas head coach Houston Nutt said. "They have a great defense, but again Im more concerned about our guys taking the proper first step, knowing who to block and defensively stop the run. Theyll try to take some chances with big wide outs, but you stop the run and you have a good chance." Nutt also mentioned Auburns excellent kickoff and punt return teams and the importance of UAs special teams. The Tigers are leading the SEC and the NCAA in kickoff return yards with a 36.4 average. On punts they are averaging 10.22 yards. "Special teams has to play a real important role," Nutt said. "They have good kickoff and punt return teams. Its going to take every phase and everyone on the sideline to win this ball game." Senior center Kyle Roper, junior tight end Wes Murphy and junior flanker Cedric Washington were all kept out of last weekends game against Louisiana-Monroe because of injuries. They have taken this week to improve and Nutt commented on their status. "Kyle Roper and Cedric Washington continue to get better," Nutt said. "Washington is a little further ahead and hes going to be fine. We held out (Wes) Murphy today, but he walked through a few things. Roper got about half a team. I expect Murphy to be ok, but I wont know about Roper until the game. He acts likes hes trying to get there and its encouraging." Arkansas will face No. 21 Auburn at 6 p.m. at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Ark. The game will not be televised.