Arkansas Football: Red 44, White 9

Monday, April 16th 2007, 8:32 am

By: News On 6

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (AP) _ The Arkansas Razorbacks ended spring football practice Saturday with nearly an hour-long scrimmage in 30-degree temperatures. The Red squad defeated the White, 44-9.

Darren McFadden and Felix Jones spent most of the night on the sideline with the exception of a few late plays. Michael Smith took advantage of their absence to shine.

Smith rushed four times for 30 yards, including a 23-yard touchdown. He had two receptions for 35 yards, including a 20-yard touchdown catch from Nathan Emert.

``Michael is a talented back that will definitely have a role in our offense,'' coach Houston Nutt said.

Many projected defensive starters also didn't see any action because of injuries.

Emert completed 7-of-17 attempts for 80 yards and two touchdowns.

Casey Dick completed 8-of-14 passes for 117 yards and two touchdowns. He connected with Peyton Hillis for a 12-yard touchdown and later hit Ben Cleveland with a 20-yard scoring toss.

London Crawford made a touchdown catch from five yards out.

Hillis led the receivers with four catches for 38 yards and a touchdown. Cleveland garnered 52 yards and a touchdown on two receptions.

Farod Jackson scored a touchdown on an 11-yard run, and Jeremy Davis added three field goals and Joe Hall and Brian Vavra contributed one field goal each to complete the scoring.

Desmond Williams led the Hogs with five tackles including one sack. Malcolm Sheppard earned three tackles during a short stint on the field. Matterral Richardson made the only interception of the night to halt a white teams offensive drive. Richardson returned the pick 17 yards.

``Our guys need to have a good off-season,'' Nutt said. ``I think they will. We have some good leadership and they have shown that commitment. I'm excited about the potential of this team and can't wait to get back out there in August.''