Nathan Dick Demoted To No. 3 Quarterback

FAYETTEVILLE -- Nathan Dick's stint as Arkansas' No. 2 quarterback lasted only a few days.

As a result of his struggles over the past few practices, the freshman has been demoted to the No. 3 quarterback behind starter Casey Dick and backup Nathan Emert.

Dick, Casey's younger brother, had supplanted Emert as the No. 2 quarterback last week. But the freshman continues to be bothered by a hip flexor that caused him to sit out Friday's practice.

"Right now, if Casey Dick is working first, Nathan Emert is working second (and) Nathan Dick is working third," said Arkansas offensive coordinator David Lee, who also coaches the quarterbacks.

"Nathan has struggled somewhat the last three practices, which has been simultaneously with this hip flexor/sports hernia, whatever it is."

Nathan Dick dressed out for Tuesday's practice, but Arkansas coach Houston Nutt said the freshman was limited in what he could do as a precaution.

Afterward, Nutt was asked if Nathan Dick would still be the No. 2 quarterback when No. 21 Arkansas opens the season against Troy University at 6 p.m. Saturday in Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

"We'll see if. I don't know," Nutt said. "If we played tonight, he wouldn't (be the backup)."

Nathan Dick was named the backup quarterback on Friday when Arkansas released its depth chart for the season opener.

He had impressed coaches during preseason practices with his ability to make plays and look comfortable in the pocket. But the hip flexor has set him back over the past few days.