FAYETTEVILLE — Mitch Smothers is the only true freshman offensive lineman to start a season opener for Arkansas, but finding consistent success with the Razorbacks hasn’t been easy for the former Springdale High School standout.
It took three positions, three head coaches and four seasons before Smothers held onto a starting job.
“I’ve learned a lot about myself and fought through some adversity,” Smothers said. “It’s all turned out for the best.”
Smothers, a fifth-year senior, will make his 26th consecutive start at center when Arkansas plays Kansas State in the Liberty Bowl on Saturday.
“I think Mitch is very strong-minded, very strong-hearted,” Razorbacks Coach Bret Bielema said.