ESPN: Razorback receivers ready to break out

As we all sit here awaiting to see how ESPN treats Bobby Petrino on College Football Live today at 2:30 p.m. Central, take some solace in knowing that at least one ESPNer thinks at least one Hog will have a breakout year capable of making him a household name.

Casey Dick? No, but I'm almost certain he's going to break a few records this season in Petrino's Power Spread.

Tailback Michael Smith? No, but no one can doubt his talents.

The correct answer, writes ESPN's Chris Low, is wide receiver London Crawford.

Finally ready to live up to lofty high school credentials now that he's in Bobby Petrino's pass-happy offense. One of the Hogs' most improved players in the spring.

Crawford, who's No. 7 on Low's SEC list of possible breakout years, did show some improvement in the spring. But he also dropped three passes in the Hogs' spring game in April.

Based off his philosophy of going back to a player who makes a mistake to build confidence, Petrino called more plays to get the ball to Crawford. And he capitalized with eight receptions for 82 yards and a touchdown. Previously, he led the team with 106 yards and 2 touchdowns in the Hogs' second spring scrimmage.

Confidence, it seems, is just what Crawford needs.

Low also says to watch out for tight ends Andrew Davie and D.J. Williams. Williams, from what I can tell from spring practice, is one of Petrino's uber-studs in the Feed The Studs system. He'll certainly get the ball more this year than any tight end in the last 15 years at Arkansas.

FYI, I'll be back later with an update on Petrino's apperance on College Football Live.

Did you know?: Crawford starred in an ESPN reality show, Summer House, on ESPNU two years ago.

Filed under: Arkansas Football by Brandon Marcello. Posted on: July 22, 2008 at 9:39 am