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Sam Pittman ‘comfortable’ with Patrick Kutas’ outlook at center entering Week 6
Sam Pittman made a big move on his offensive line this week ahead of the Razorbacks matchup against Ole Miss.
Pittman shifted Patrick Kutas to the starting center position in practice this week. So far, Pittman has liked the move and thinks Kutas is adjusting well as the starter.
“I think he wants to be the center, which obviously makes a big deal,” Pittman said during the SEC coaches teleconference Wednesday. “But I’m comfortable with his first 2 practice days, I think it went well on Monday.”
It will obviously be a big challenge getting his first start on the road against one of the top teams in the SEC, but Pittman has introduced some noise to practice to try and get Kutas comfortable dealing with a loud environment before Saturday.
“We had a little bit more noise,” Pittman said. “That takes a little bit to get used to because it’s just different when you clap, and have noise, it’s different than when you just say, ‘Set, hut.’ Those things are just something he’s got to get used to and he’s working awfully hard at it.”
The move comes after a game in which Arkansas’ offensive line allowed 7 sacks against Texas A&M and had just 42 rushing yards. Pittman said making Kutas the starter could “get the attention of your guys that are playing,” and drive them to work harder.
Saturday will be a big test to see how much Arkansas’ offensive line can step up after last week.