Conference: SEC
Coach Stats
Why should this nominee be considered for the Broyles Award?
Running backs coach Jimmy Smith is a vital piece of the Arkansas coaching staff. Smith’s running backs have produced each of his three seasons with Raheim Sanders this season being the first Razorback to rush for 1000 yards in a season since 2019. Smith has also been key in recruiting for the Hogs, helping establish a pipeline to Georgia high schools.
Coach's Past Performance
Coach Smith was a two-time state champion high school head football coach in Georgia prior to becoming a college coach. At Cedar Grove HS, he went 67-14-1 during his six seasons at the helm. He joined Georgia State’s staff as the running backs coach for the 2019 season before becoming a part of Coach Pittman’s initial staff at Arkansas. His running backs for the Razorbacks have shown improvement every year with the Hogs leading the Power 5 and ranking second nationally in rushing during the 2021 season.
Team Record and Standings
5-4, 2-3 SEC
Team/Unit Stats
Arkansas ranks second in the SEC and 10th nationally through nine games this season with 233.3 rushing yards per game. The Hogs are one of just 12 teams in the nation to eclipse 2000 yards in just nine games. The 2021 Razorbacks produced four different rushers to go over 500 yards, the first time an Arkansas team accomplished the feat since 1975.
Individual Player Stats
Sophomore Raheim Sanders leads the Southeastern Conference in rushing through Week 10 of the regular season, averaging 122.3 yards per game. Sanders matched the school record for quickest to 1000 rushing yards in just eight games. The sophomore was recruited as a wide receiver before moving to running back in his first spring practice and learning the position from Smith.
