Arkansas football coach Sam Pittman is set to lead his team into the Liberty Bowl game against Texas Tech on Friday night, albeit with a cane by his side. Following a hip replacement surgery on December 3, Pittman is on the mend but still requires the cane for stability during extended periods of standing.
Pittman spoke about his recovery progress, stating, “I can walk without a cane about 20 yards, maybe,” emphasizing that while he feels much better overall, the cane provides him with reassurance on the sidelines. His condition has been a challenge this season, as he limped through games and missed out on participating in the customary ‘running through the A’ at home games.
Despite the physical challenges this season posed—characterized by what he described as “survival on the sideline”—Pittman did not miss any crucial preparation time for the bowl game or recruiting efforts. He acknowledged that waiting until after the season for surgery may not have been ideal, expressing a wish he could have undergone the procedure earlier.
As he heads into his fifth year with the Razorbacks, with a record of 29-31 and a goal of concluding with a perfect bowl record of 3-0, Pittman’s resilience is commendable. His determination to coach through personal adversity highlights his commitment to the team and the program.
This Liberty Bowl matchup not only serves as a closing chapter for the season but also as a testament to Pittman’s strength and leadership as he guides the Razorbacks into this significant game. The hope remains that the team can rally and perform well, not only for the victory but also as a tribute to their coach’s unwavering spirit.