SEC 50 Players In 50 Days: Cobi Hamilton
We are in full blown catch up mode after taking a few days off in our Rant Sports, SEC 50 Players in 50 Days preview. Earlier today we took a look at one of my favorite players in the conference, South Carolina linebacker DeVonte Holloman. Now we jump back to the offensive side of the football and take a look at Arkansas wide receiver Cobi Hamilton. A player that will have to have a huge year if Arkansas is to make a run and have a chance to play in Atlanta.
Cobi Hamilton, WR, Arkansas:
The Arkansas Razorbacks are hoping to steam roll into the 2012 season after a 2011 season that saw them finish 11-2. They return quarterback Tyler Wilson, who threw for 3,638 yards and 24 touchdowns in 2011. Knile Davis is also back after sitting out last season due to an injury. Unfortunately for Arkansas, the biggest piece of the puzzle will not return. Head coach Bobby Petrino was let go by the university after a motorcycle accident and the details that followed. Arkansas also loses three wide receivers: Joe Adams, Greg Childs and Jarius Wright, who accounted for 141 receptions in 2011. Senior wideout, Cobi Hamilton, will become Wilson’s main target and must pick up the slack to give the Razorbacks the balance on offense they desperately need.
Hamilton was Arkansas’ fourth leading receiver in 2011, as he had 34 receptions for 542 yards and four touchdowns. Not bad numbers for a guy who had to split reps with three receivers that are now in NFL training camps. Hamilton has had an impressive career in Fayetteville and will look to cap off 2012 with an SEC Title. Over his career, he has appeared in 39 games with 18 starts. He enters 2012 with 85 career receptions for 1,519 yards and 13 touchdowns. Hamilton has also made a reception in 19 straight games.
Arkansas was a media favorite to win the SEC going into spring practice. Now, with the coaching change, they must adapt and play for a new head man, John L. Smith. While a ton of experts have now written the Razorbacks off, leadership from seniors Wilson, Davis and Hamilton will be key if Arkansas looks to take the next step in 2012.
