Impressions from Media Day 2007!

I always consider Arkansas Media Day a personal challenge. We request about 10 players and 3 coaches, and trying to come up with insightful and interesting questions for each one can prove difficult. After all, we speak to a lot of these guys all the time, so the basic questions are redundant. I use to write down questions, but found it made the interview too stale and organized, so now I try to listen to their answers and wing it... much more fun. Here are some of the highlights from Monday's action:

1. Most entertaining interview- Robert Felton. This was a no-brainer, the senior offensive lineman is as funny as he is personable. I would call him a lovable teddy bear but he could then squish my brains in or pancake block me into the turf. But Felton has a jovial spirit and a knack for being engaging when the camera is on, and even more so when just chatting one on one. He will be on tv a LOT this season, count on it.

2. Best newcomer- Alex Tejada. A kicker, a KICKER, come on! Those words uttered by Houston Nutt at his recruiting press conference really emphasize how important the Springdale High kicker is needed on campus. Tejada had dealt with the limelight and sudden stardom at Arkansas amazingly well, and he was loaded with about 15 media requests today, far and away the most for any freshman. He's incredibly intelligent, well-spoken, and seems to enjoy being a part of Arkansas football, and even more thankful for the opportunity. Well done Alex.

3. Best question- Gameday preparation. Perhaps the most surprising answers we got all day came from our question about how these Hog players get revved up on gameday. Is is loud music? Banging helmets? Dancing all around? Nope, just about every guy from Michael Grant to Felton to Weston Dacus, all love some peace and quiet before a game. The movies paint a different picture, but in truth, the amount of energy they spend on the field for 3 hours, it's no surprise they are resting and trying to relax before buckling up the chinstraps.

4. Comeback of the Year- Michael Grant. Finally, we need to mention the safety who's returning from a horrific knee injury last year. Many felt, including Michael, that his career was over when it happened. But 2 surgeries and a whole lot of rehab, Grant is out there inspiring his teammates and proving all the doubters wrong. Good thing too, because this young defense needs his leadership in the secondary. He was a delight to talk too, actually all 3 ACL Hogs (Marcus Harrison, Freddie Fairchild) were. All gave honest and heartfelt interviews about their injuries, their struggle to get through it, and the appreciation they have for the game, and how quickly it can all end. We'll have a lot more with those guys in our Razorback Season Special in a couple weeks. Stay tuned for details.