Mallett throws 2 TDs to Wright in UA scrimmage; RBs Curtis, Green combine for 115 yards

Arkansas SID
Updated: 3/29/2009

RYAN MALLETT

FAYETTEVILLE – Arkansas sophomore quarterback Ryan Mallett completed 11 of 25 passes for 164 yards and two touchdowns with one interception during Saturday's scrimmage inside the Walker Pavilion.

"Ryan showed his ability to move in the pocket, keep his vision down the field, and hit some big plays," Razorback head coach Bobby Petrino said. "We threw the deep ball well. I wasn't happy with the consistency of our quick pass game, and we have some work to do there."

Jarius Wright caught both of Mallett's touchdown passes from 24 and 27 yards. Wright led the receiving unit with four catches for 59 yards.

Broderick Green led the running backs with 10 carries for 59 yards and a 1-yard TD. De'Anthony Curtis also ran well with six carries for 56 yards and a 30-yard TD.

"I thought our running backs ran the ball well," Petrino said. "I thought we broke tackles, which is something we've been emphasizing along with yards after contact and spinning. De'Anthony Curtis had a great run, both the

D. CURTIS

young big backs had some good runs and Dennis Johnson had a real explosive run.

"It definitely helps De'Anthony's confidence. He knows the emphasis this spring is to keep his legs driving and get yards after contact. I thought yesterday he took a step forward, and I thought he took a bigger step forward today. He is going to work as hard as he possibly can."

The defense produced four sacks, one interception, one fumble recovery and six pass breakups. Ramon Broadway had seven tackles to lead the unit. Jerico Nelson and Tramain Thomas each had six, and Thomas added a pair of pass breakups.

"I thought the defense ran around and got guys to the ball," Petrino said. "It looked like there were some plays and sacks where you don't hit the quarterback.

"I think we are learning a lot about our team chemistry and our energy. I like our enthusiasm and how physical we are. Last year, I thought that it was like pulling teeth to get us to hit and concentrate on the physical part of the drills. This year, they are real eager and excited about it. They see the success and any time you see success you can build off of it."

Arkansas continues practice at 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 31. All spring workouts are scheduled to take place outdoors and are open to the public, weather permitting.