'Displeased' Hunter Yurachek calls for changes in kickoff times for Arkansas football's 2026 schedule
Whole Hog Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Arkansas football announced kickoff times for its first three games under coach Ryan Silverfield, including a late 9:15 p.m. Central start at Utah and an early 11 a.m. game against Georgia.
- Athletics director Hunter Yurachek expressed strong dissatisfaction with the schedule, citing concerns over player rest and recovery, especially the quick turnaround between the late Utah game and early Georgia game.
- Yurachek formally requested the SEC and ESPN to seek changes to the kickoff times, emphasizing player welfare over broadcast revenue.
- SEC commissioner Greg Sankey acknowledged the concerns but stated that ESPN has final authority over scheduling decisions, and the league has limited ability to change them.
- Coach Silverfield indicated flexibility with game times, prioritizing fan engagement and readiness regardless of the schedule.