Arkansas’ Smith tries to stay positive through losses

College Football » Former Weber, USU coach saddled with $25M in debt — and an 0-2 start at Arkansas

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Doss said the last thing he wants to see now Smith fired. He said that would "send a bad message to potentials" — meaning potential long-term coaches who might take over at Arkansas after this season.

Athletic director Jeff Long has been publicly silent on Smith, though he tweeted after the loss to Louisiana-Monroe: "We’re all disappointed in Sat, none more than S-As & Coaches We will pull together not apart."

To a man, the Razorbacks have offered unconditional support for Smith, both immediately after his hiring and during the two-game losing streak. They’ve also felt the pressure of the losses, as well as the wrath of fans — including some who engaged in back-and-forth on Twitter with angry fans following the Louisiana-Monroe loss.

"I think sometimes it’s unfair, but that’s the price of being a head coach," Arkansas backup quarterback Brandon Mitchell said. "Even as a quarterback, you get the praise when you’re winning and don’t when you’re losing. That’s why we focus on you win as a team and lose as a team. Everybody has to behind those two leaders at all times."

Smith and the Razorbacks received one bit of positive news Wednesday night following practice when they were greeted by approximately 200 students while walking back to the locker room. The students lined the entrance into Razorback Stadium from the practice fields, armed with signs of support.

It was enough to make even Smith smile.

"It was great to see that," Smith said. "It shows the great spirit, the true, loyal fans, students we have. We thanked them for that, very much."

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