MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Arkansas football coach Sam Pittman has an added accessory to his Liberty Bowl wardrobe Friday night.
The Razorbacks (6-6) are facing Texas Tech (8-3) to close the 2024 season, and Pittman is coaching with a cane on the sideline. The Arkansas head coach had a hip replacement on Dec. 3, and while he says he is making good progress toward a full recovery, he still needs the cane for extended time on his feet.
“I can walk without a cane about 20 yards, maybe,” Pittman said Monday. “I’m going to have it on the sideline just, I don’t know, maybe it’s a security blanket, maybe I need it, I don’t know, but I’m sleeping a lot better.”
More:Former Missouri wide receiver Courtney Crutchfield transfers to Arkansas
More:Five Christmas wishes for Sam Pittman, John Calipari and Arkansas athletics in 2025
Pittman knew he needed surgery in the summer, but he elected to wait until the end of the season to undergo the procedure. He had a noticeable limp all season, and didn’t participate in the Hogs’ tradition of ‘running through the A’ at home games.
The 62-year old head coach didn’t have to miss any time in preparation for a potential bowl game or recruiting out of the transfer portal, but Pittman recently admitted he wished he had the surgery in the summer.
“This season’s been rough just simply because it’s been a little bit, honestly, of survival on the sideline with my hip, which is not fair to the team or anything. It’s just when you’re hurt, you’re hurt,” he said.
Pittman coached from the booth in Arkansas’ regular-season finale, a 28-21 road loss to Missouri.
Friday marks the conclusion of Pittman’s fifth year with Arkansas. He is 29-31 with the Razorbacks and is seeking a 3-0 record in bowl games.
Arkansas football’s head coach Sam Pittman has been spotted using a cane during the team’s preparations for the upcoming Liberty Bowl, leaving many fans wondering why. Pittman, who has been dealing with a hip injury, has been using the cane as a precautionary measure to help alleviate some of the pain and discomfort he is experiencing.
Despite his injury, Pittman remains dedicated to leading his team to victory in the Liberty Bowl. His determination and resilience serve as an inspiration to his players and fans alike, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the team and the game of football.
As Arkansas gears up to face off against their opponent in the Liberty Bowl, Pittman’s use of the cane serves as a reminder of the challenges and obstacles that can arise in the world of sports. His perseverance and leadership in the face of adversity are a testament to his character and his unwavering passion for the game.
Regardless of the outcome of the Liberty Bowl, one thing is certain – Sam Pittman’s presence on the sidelines, cane in hand, will continue to inspire and motivate his team to give their all on the field.
Tags:
- Arkansas football
- Sam Pittman
- Liberty Bowl
- Cane
- University of Arkansas
- College football
- Coaching strategies
- Player injury prevention
- Football coaching techniques
- SEC football
#Arkansas #footballs #Sam #Pittman #cane #Liberty #Bowl
Leave a Reply