Arkansas Business

This story is from the archives of ArkansasSports360.com.

News and notes from Thursday’s Arkansas media availability …

I. Mitchel To Start
Sophomore Tevin Mitchel is expected to be back at cornerback Saturday against Kentucky.

Mitchel, who has missed four games because of a head injury and gall bladder surgery, has practiced all week and been involved in contact. He could get 30-40 snaps and possibly more, Coach John L. Smith said.

“He’s a thoroughbred. He can run all day. More of the problem would be just getting in there and getting some hits,” Smith said. “That’s what I worry about more than his game shape. We got him in as much contact as we do at this point and he’s showing a willingness to want to hit.”

Mitchel would likely start with freshman Will Hines. Kaelon Kelleybrew and Davyon McKinney will also see time in the secondary.

II. Williams Getting Work
Terrell Williams isn’t waiting for his opportunity any longer.

Williams, a career backup with two starts to his credit entering the season, is set to start a fourth consecutive game. He’s been thrust into action with injuries to Alonzo Highsmith and Tenarius Wright.

At Auburn he finished with 12 tackles to lead the team. Williams now has 32 for the season, good enough for fourth on the team.

“Man, it's a good feeling but it's like bittersweet,” Williams said. “I'm just trying to give experience and wisdom to the young guys and help them learn as fast as possible and as much as possible.”

Freshmen Otha Peters and A.J. Turner are seeing extended snaps at linebacker. They have some physical ability, but need Williams’ help as they develop.

“We have appealed to T. Will: ‘You have been here a long time. Not only get yourself lined up but get the guy next to you lined up. Encourage him,’ ” Smith said. “That has to take place, but you can see immense growth in these guys day to day and week to week, they are getting better.”

III. Dialing Up Davis
Knile Davis wasn’t effective last week against Auburn, turning in one of the worst games of his career. He had three carries that went for minus-4 rushing yards.

Coaches pointed to the way Davis practiced last week. They like what they’ve seen from him in preparing for Kentucky much better.