Sam Pittman Bold Move: the Enigma of Dan Enos Exit from Razorbacks Territory

Sam Pittman Bold Move: In the wake of Dan Enos’ dismissal, Sam Pittman, known for his direct approach, openly acknowledged key issues that led to the termination.

Pittman had requested Enos, the former offensive coordinator for Arkansas, to reduce the frequency of drop-back passes, as the team faced 31 sacks during the season. Unfortunately, Enos did not comply.

Additionally, Pittman had urged Enos to implement a more up-tempo offense, aligning with quarterback KJ Jefferson’s comfort zone. However, Enos chose to disregard this directive.

The culmination of these frustrations, coupled with discontent from the Arkansas Razorbacks fan base and a lackluster performance against Mississippi State, prompted Pittman to make the decision. This move, seemingly contemplated over several weeks, might have transpired sooner if Barry Odom had not departed for the head coaching position at UNLV, a team with an impressive 6-1 record.

Odom, Pittman’s initial hire, brought valuable experience as a former head coach to assist in the transition to Pittman’s leadership role. Pittman, with 35 years as a top-tier offensive line coach and recruiter, sought Odom’s guidance during the first three seasons.

Despite Odom’s desire for another shot at a head coaching position, he left, leaving a void that impacted Pittman’s coaching dynamics.

A significant setback occurred with the lateral move of Kendal Briles to TCU as the offensive coordinator, a decision announced after Enos’ hiring. This move is regarded as one of Pittman’s career missteps.

Enos’ hiring raised concerns due to his extensive job changes over 29 years in college football, having held 15 positions. His return to Arkansas marked his seventh job since departing after the 2017 season.

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Before the Alabama game, Nick Saban‘s positive comments about Enos, his former mentee, raised eyebrows. However, the truth emerged—Enos had a brief stint at Michigan before joining Saban at Alabama. He left abruptly for Miami after the national championship loss, denying allegations of ghosting Saban.

Enos worked with Tua Tagovailoa at Alabama and Taulia Tagovailoa at Maryland. Despite a termination after one season at Maryland, Enos landed the job at Arkansas.

Contrary to rumors, Enos’ family situation and alleged desire to be fired are debunked. He and his wife are divorced, and their children are adults.

With a negotiable $2.8 million buyout at Arkansas, Enos is expected to rebound in his coaching career, possibly in the Big Ten where he has connections. The underlying truth remains—he was a coordinator, not the head coach, and adherence to orders is crucial for assistants to avoid termination.