The 12th-ranked Florida Gators used a scoring burst in the final quarter to turn a close battle with the University of Arkansas Razorbacks into a 38-7 victory in Southeastern Conference football this afternoon at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.
Florida, 4-1, hands Arkansas, 2-3, a third straight loss to a team ranked in the Associated Press top 15.
"It's a tough loss because our players did a good job to get their emotions back after the Texas loss, and we had better leadership this week during practice," head coach Bobby Petrino said. "They have shown that they really care. I know our players really got themselves ready to play."
Junior Michael Smith registered his second 100-yard game of the season, including the only touchdown of the afternoon for Arkansas. Smith ran for 133 yards on 20 carries.
"Michael Smith is a very hard runner," Razorback quarterback Casey Dick said. "He makes plays. That's what we have to have out there."
Dick threw for 208 yards on 22 of 35, and in the fourth quarter passed Arkansas legend Joe Ferguson on the all-time career yardage. Dick is now seventh all-time.
"The offensive line did a great job, and we improved from last week to this week in practice and in the game," Dick said. "We have to keep our heads high, but we have to find a way to put the ball in the end zone once we get it down there."
Arkansas held the Gators in check most of the first half, frustrating the Florida offense.
"Our defense did well today, and I liked what we did before halftime," head coach Bobby Petrino said. "We worked hard all week and had better leadership in practice. It showed during the game."
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Source - UA Sports Information