Arkansas Head Coach Bret Bielema opening statement: “Sunday our guys made some steps forward, did some good things. I wanted to make sure I pointed out some of the good things we did well. Some of our guys are returning from a year ago and playing some of their best football. Denver Kirkland played extremely well and elevated his game from a year ago, he was challenged and rose above it. Also, a guy like AJ Derby who has never played the tight end position in college, let alone any level. There were guys that played for the first time for us, like Cody Hollister and Sebastian Tretola up front. A lot of positives to build from, this weekend we should be somewhat full force. Nicholls played Air Force and is on a significant losing streak like we are and the taste of a win is what we both want.”
Bielema on the opportunity this weekend against Nicholls: “I think one of the things that happens in a situation like this, is that it’s like when you’re winning - it’s very hard to stop that streak. You get that confidence and that momentum. Now it’s important for our guys to understand that they can’t accept defeat or a losing attitude. I’ve been part of a team that there was never any waver and never any doubt about it. Until we get to that point, it’s hard to bring it up.”
Bielema on Brandon Allen: “I liked Brandon Allen on Saturday. I think about where we were last Monday with his car incident and that didn’t affect him at all. I talked to him that day but I let him do his own business. He was engaged, the only time I saw him get agitated is because his little brother, Austin Allen, is signaling plays to him. So there’s a little bit of give and take there. There were very few teaching moments for Brandon. He was in control, competitive and he had demeanor and an explanation for everything going around him. I think a year ago, sometimes he would give you the answer you wanted to hear, not the answer you needed to hear. Brandon Allen’s going to be a very good quarterback, he is a good quarterback already, but I think with where we’re going, he’s going to be rewarded with some very good plays.”