Loss raises questions

As I watched the Razorback game Saturday, I raised the following comments and questions. I speak only from a layman’s perspective, yet I feel that these concerns, if not already addressed by the coaching staff, demand immediate attention.

During the Razorback’s first offensive series, two Rutgers linemen aggressively sacked Tyler Wilson. Wilson was constantly harassed and suffered hits throughout the game. Surely we would expect that better adjustments would have had top priority, given the crucial importance of Wilson.

As a former player, I judge the Razorback offensive scheme seriously lacking in imagination and creativity: far too few, if any, misdirection plays, no fakes, end arounds, reverses or screens to help neutralize their fierce rush. By contrast, Rutgers used deceptive plays effectively.

One of our inexperienced corner backs was beaten time after time for long passing gains and touchdowns. Why wasn’t our free safety more available for support in this obviously vulnerable part of the Razorback defense?

Why were our defensive ends so preoccupied with pinching in to stop Rutgers that they too often failed to protect their own turf? This has happened in previous games with disastrous results.

Surely, as a true Razorback fan, I remain a strong supporter. But as the game continued, and the sad loss unfolded, I couldn’t help but wonder. JOHN W. NIVEN

Little Rock