Arkansas
Yurachek says Pittman will return for 2024 season
FAYETTEVILLE — University of Arkansas Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek informed Razorback players and staff members on Saturday night he was sticking with Coach Sam Pittman.
Yurachek’s backing came after the Razorbacks defeated Florida International 44-20 at Reynolds Razorback Stadium to improve to 4-7 heading into Friday’s season finale at home against No. 9 Missouri.
“Our team was extremely excited last night after the game when I informed them that Coach Pittman is our head coach and will be moving forward into the 2024 season,” Yurachek wrote on social media. “This has not been the season any of us anticipated. We have work to do. I am confident that together, we can meet the goals and expectations of our program. I want to thank the many Razorback fans who have supported our team this season. I look forward to honoring our seniors and cheering on this team on Friday as we take on Missouri.”
Pittman appeared frustrated when asked in his postgame press conference about a report from ESPN’s Rod Gilmore saying the broadcast team had met with Pittman and he informed them he had talked to Yurachek for two hours following last Saturday’s 48-10 loss to Auburn and had been assured his job was safe.
“I don’t remember having that conversation with those guys,” Pittman said. “That’s not for me. That’s — you guys need to ask [Yurachek] all that kind of stuff.
“I don’t think I’m getting fired, guys, or he would’ve told me I’m getting fired. And so I’m not sure why I have to answer these questions about getting fired or not. I don’t, but we’ll kill recruiting if we keep talking about it.”
Pittman has a 23-24 overall record and 11-22 record in the SEC in his fourth year as head coach at Arkansas.