At the University of Arkansas, another challenging day has begun with the announcement of the passing of former standout running back Alex Collins.
Collins’ choice to join the Arkansas Razorbacks is among the school’s most well-known recruiting stories. More than anything, Collins desired to move to Arkansas, but everything was in jeopardy when his mother absconded with his intent letter.Collins eventually reached out to Arkansas coach Bret Bielema with his letter, and the rest is history. The large, quick back with his trademark hair made history by becoming just the second rushing back in history to surpass 1,000 yards in his first three seasons, after Herschel Walker and Darren McFadden. It was sufficient to get him into the Doak Walker semifinals and into lists of All-SEC and All-American players.
Collins ran for 1,577 yards during his junior year, including five games with 150 yards or more. Who he accomplished it against was what set him apart. Collins ran for 151 yards and a touchdown against Texas A&M and then for 154 yards and two touchdowns against Tennessee in back-to-back games. Then, in the Liberty Bowl, he finished the season with 185 yards and three touchdowns in a 45-23 victory over Kansas State.
For those who don’t know, Ole Miss was trying to win the West Division and get a ticket to the SEC championship game, and Arkansas was up against them on April 25. Tight end Hunter Henry was tackled for a touchdown by Razorback quarterback Brandon Allen on a sideline route. Henry flung the ball over his head to mid-field, where it was recovered by Collins as it bounced. With his locks blowing in the breeze, he skillfully maneuvered his way to not only gain the first down but also all the way to the 10-yard line in overtime, as the Razorbacks fell behind 52-45.
