What Sam Pittman said following Arkansas' win against Western Carolina
Sam Pittman and the Arkansas Razorbacks opened the 2023 season with a strong win over Western Carolina, 56-13. The Razorbacks were in control of this game from the very beginning, as quarterback KJ Jefferson was in control early, starting 12-of-12 and throwing 2 first quarter touchdowns. He finished 18-of-23 for 246 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Pittman addressed reporters following the game. To summarize, Pittman was very happy with the passing game, but was disappointed with how the team ran the ball.
Sam Pittman speaking to the media after their win over Western Carolina. #WPS
“The run game wasn’t what we wanted it to be, but the passing game was what we wanted it to be.” pic.twitter.com/DmulkENbaE
— Pig Trail Nation (@PigTrailNation) September 2, 2023
Sam Pittman on RSN halftime show (1/2):
“We’ve got to run the ball better. We haven’t been able to run the ball. We’ve done a great job at catching and getting them to have turnovers. We’ve made some big penalties on defense and we’ve got to get that figured out.
— Matt Jones (@MattJonesADG) September 2, 2023
For Arkansas and Pittman, running the ball is how they want to play football. While Jefferson passing the ball well is a great sign to see, he was ineffective running the ball. He finished with only 5 carries for 11 yards, which are his fewest since rushing for 5 yards against Georgia on October 2, 2021.
With the rushing attack only going for 105 yards on 36 carries, Pittman said the Razorbacks could have thrown the ball even more.
“Well we couldn’t get to their safeties which was probably why we got a lot yards throwing the football. I thought Dan could have thrown it a bit more.” – Sam Pittman #WPS
— Pig Trail Nation (@PigTrailNation) September 2, 2023
Here’s more from Pittman on Arkansas’ win against Western Carolina:
WATCH: Sam Pittman gives his thoughts following the 56-13 win over Western Carolina to open the 2023 season. https://t.co/DWnQTKaUa3 #WPS pic.twitter.com/NLTK0aL8rg
— Mason Choate (@ChoateMason) September 2, 2023
“That wasn’t an easy throw, and he threw it to Dozier? Yeah, that was awesome.” – Pittman on Jacolby Criswell and his touchdown throw
— Pig Trail Nation (@PigTrailNation) September 2, 2023