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Jackson returns to help the Razorback backfield find its footing

Posted on by Pranco
Jackson returns to help the Razorback backfield find its footing

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Arkansas’ bye week should allow a key member of the offense to return. Razorbacks coach Sam Pittman had a positive update on running back Ja’Quinden Jackson.

“He’s healthy,” Pittman said on the SEC Teleconference Call. “He’s ready to go. He looked really good in training and I expect him to go out and play at full strength and full speed. It’s good to have him back.”

Razorbacks running back Ja'Quinden Jackson runs in against UAB

Arkansas Razorbacks running back Ja’Quinden Jackson runs in against the UAB Blazers at Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Ark. / Michael Morrison-Hogs on SI Images

Jackson has been in and out of the lineup all season. He dealt with cramps early in the season before missing the final two games with an ankle injury. Jackson was also limited to just five carries against LSU on October 19.

The running game without Jackson has been inconsistent and the offense has suffered holistically. Arkansas only managed 38 rushing yards against LSU. The Hogs took advantage of a porous Mississippi State defense for 359 rushing yards before managing just 43 yards on the ground in the first half against Ole Miss before getting the rest of their yards in garbage time against the second-string defense of the rebels.

Stiff-armed Razorbacks running back Braylen Russell, a defensive back from Mississippi State

Arkansas Razorbacks running back Braylen Russell (0) stiff-arms Mississippi State Bulldogs safety Isaac Smith (2) during the first quarter at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. / Matt Bush-Imagn images

It’s also the perfect time for Jackson to return. A native of Dallas, Texas, Jackson will now have the opportunity to play at another major school from his home state.

“This is the one to stand up for,” Pittman said. “He talked about it when we recruited him. We hope he is healthy and can showcase his talents.”

Kickoff between Arkansas and Texas is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday. The match will be broadcast on ABC.

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