BRILES SAYS UA offense is where it needs to be.
FAYETTEVILLE — University of Arkansas offensive coordinator Kendal Briles, making his first media appearance of training camp, said Friday the offense is on a good track steaming toward the season opener Sept. 4 against Rice.
“I feel like we’re right where we need to be in camp,” Briles said. “Obviously, there’s always room to improve.
“The thing that you want is guys learning and then retaining. I feel like we’re doing that offensively at all positions. And then staying healthy. That’s what camp is all about. These guys already know us. They’ve been here, so they know what to expect.”
The Razorbacks worked in modified “spider” pads in practice No. 13 on Friday after a heavy-hitting day Thursday. The final scrimmage of camp, a closed workout, will take place this morning at Reynolds Razorback Stadium.
Briles said he can feel the wealth of returning experience the Razorbacks have at tailback, at receiver and particularly the offensive line for new position coach Cody Kennedy.
“Up front, having that experience back is just huge,” he said. “We had an O-line change with coach Kennedy. He was here in the spring and obviously knows the expectations and how he’s going to coach those guys.
“He’s done a tremendous job with them, and I think they really like the change with Coach Kennedy. I feel like that room is in a great spot right now.”
The Razorbacks have to replace only wideout Mike Woods and quarterback Feleipe Franks on offense.
“We have a lot of returning guys,” Briles said. “Obviously, when you lose a guy like Feleipe, you’re going to feel that. It was great to have a spring without him to get those quarterbacks out there. Those guys are all chomping at the bit, and they’re all ready to contribute. I feel like we have a host of guys who are very capable. We just have to continue to work this fall camp.”