UA running back Smith likened to former Hog great Fred Talley
Arkansas junior running back Michael Smith, who weighs in at 5-7, 175 pounds, has more than just stature in common with former Arkansas 1,000-yard rusher Fred Talley. The two share the same elusive quickness and style.
Smith, though, has a long way to go to match Talley, who led the Hogs in rushing in three consecutive seasons (2000-2002) and produced one of only 14, 1,000-yard rushing seasons in school history when he rumbled for 1,119 yards in 2002.
Smith, of course, has spent the past two seasons in the shadow of Darren McFadden and Felix Jones, the two greatest running backs in school history.
“People started comparing me to Fred Talley when I first got here,” Smith said. “I’ve watched some tape on him and I can see it. He’s great but I want to be better than Fred Talley.”
Smith, though, might not get his chance to prove it statistically. Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino doesn’t have plans to hand off to Smith enough for the junior tailback to accumulate Talley’s rushing numbers. Petrino also plans to use three other freshman backs in a four-man rotation.
“I’m ready for a break-out season but the most important thing for me is doing whatever I can to help this team win,” Smith said. “If that means blocking more than running, that’s fine with me. Just let me contribute.”
Arkansas running backs coach Tim Horton foresees approximately 15-20 touches per game for Smith. But Horton didn’t specify whether those would be hand-offs or receptions.
“If I have statistical goals this season, I’ll never tell anyone what they are,” Smith said. “I’ll do whatever they ask of me. But I think I can do a lot in space and I’m looking forward to catching the ball some and being able to use my quickness and make people miss.”
2 Responses to “UA running back Smith likened to former Hog great Fred Talley”
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Michael could be a huge part of this offense if he has the hands out of the backfield. Let’s hope he makes good on his long awaited chance. Go MS !
Mike, your not Fred Talley! Your better than that and I want to see you kick the south end of a north bound donkey this year. Right here and right now! Lay the leather Mike! March one game at a time with excellence!!!