Arkansas has fired head coach Sam Pittman following Saturday's terrible 56-13 loss to Notre Dame at Razorback Stadium. A defeat that left fans filing out at halftime and the program searching for new direction.
Athletic director Hunter Yurachek announced the move Sunday, noting the need for “a change to put our student-athletes and program in the best position to be successful.”
Offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino will take over as interim head coach. This marks Petrino’s second stint in Fayetteville, having previously led the Razorbacks from 2008-11. Yurachek confirmed that Petrino will be considered for the permanent position as Arkansas launches a national search.
Pittman, 63, departs with a 32-34 overall record and a 14-29 mark in SEC play. He was once credited for stabilizing the program after the Chad Morris era, but that faded after starting the season at 2-3. Pittman will receive a condition buyout of $9.8 million.
Arkansas opened 2-0 against overmatched opponents. But a three-game skid, capped by Notre Dame’s 431-yard outburst, proved to be a decisive factor.
Despite his popularity among players and fans, Pittman could not meet expectations in the SEC’s demanding landscape. The dismissal also opens a 30-day transfer portal window for Arkansas players.
For now, Petrino’s return adds intrigue as Arkansas attempts to reset and reestablish itself as a contender in the nation’s toughest conference. However, this is an ultimate audition of Petrino, as five of the next seven SEC games come against ranked opponents.
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