TOP RBS impress coach in scrimmage.

FAYETTEVILLE — University of Arkansas offensive coordinator Joe Craddock praised the work of top running backs Devwah Whaley and Chase Hayden after Saturday’s first major scrimmage of spring.

Whaley had a run of about 45 yards on the second snap of the live-tackling work, then Hayden sprinted through a big hole for a 25-yard score on the next play to put the first offense on the board.

“I thought those guys did a good job of being patient and hitting it,” Craddock said. “I thought our O-line did a good job of blocking.”

Craddock liked what the top backs did on top of their running.

“I was really proud of those guys, honestly,” Craddock said. “Early on, we were working a couple of new protections and doing some things different, and I remember Chase Hayden really picking up a couple of really good blitz pickups. And doing a really nice job to get the ball out.

“So I was really proud of that, to see them understanding what we’re trying to do from a protection standpoint and pick up the pressures so we could get the ball out. I thought those guys did a nice job today. I can’t brag on those guys enough.”

Former defensive back Jordon Curtis had a couple of solid runs and at least one reception with the second offensive unit and converted walk-on receiver Jackson Salley came in late and had two big runs, including a touchdown.

“He looked good,” Craddock said. “We put him in two plays, and he averaged like 20 yards. We might have found him a new position, but I’d have to go back and look at it.”

NWA Democrat-Gazette/BEN GOFF Arkansas running back Devwah Whaley impressed offensive coordinator Joe Craddock with a 45-yard run during the live-tackling period of Saturday’s scrimmage at Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville.