Arkansas has announced a change in leadership for its football program. Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Hunter Yurachek has dismissed Head Coach Sam Pittman, who was in his sixth season with the Razorbacks.
Pittman took over as Arkansas’ 34th head coach in December 2019. During his tenure, he led the team to an overall record of 32-34 and secured three bowl game victories. The Razorbacks are currently 2-3 this season as they enter their bye week before facing Tennessee on October 11.
Offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Petrino previously held the head coaching position at Arkansas from 2008 to 2011 and returned last season as offensive coordinator.
“I want to thank Coach Pittman for his service and dedication to the University of Arkansas throughout his time as head coach,” Yurachek said. “From Day 1, you could tell how much this opportunity meant to him. At this time, however, I feel a change is necessary to put our student-athletes and program in the best position to be successful. The goal for our football program is to be highly competitive within the Southeastern Conference and compete for a national championship. As we move forward in the process of finding our next head coach, I am certain we will be able to provide the necessary resources to our staff and team to reach our goals. We will begin a national search for our next head coach immediately and that search will include Coach Petrino, who has expressed his desire to be a candidate for the full-time job.”
