Hogs running back Williams says he 'should fully recover'

Arkansas running back Rawleigh Williams III is injured after being tackled by Auburn defender Kris Frost in the third quarter of the Razorbacks' 54-46 four overtime win over Auburn on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015, at Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville.
Arkansas running back Rawleigh Williams III is injured after being tackled by Auburn defender Kris Frost in the third quarter of the Razorbacks' 54-46 four overtime win over Auburn on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015, at Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville.

FAYETTEVILLE -- Arkansas tailback Rawleigh Williams is expected to be out awhile after undergoing surgery Saturday for an injury to his neck during Arkansas' 56-48 four-overtime victory against Auburn.

Williams sounded in good spirits late Sunday morning, posting this Tweet: "I am blessed. The doctor explained that I'm very lucky and should fully recover. My family and I are very thankful for your prayers. WooPig"

Williams' face mask was pulled by Auburn linebacker Kris Frost, then he butted helmets with safety Jonathan Ford before falling at the end of a 1-yard toss sweep on the Arkansas sideline with 3:36 remaining in the third quarter. The game was stopped for several minutes, the crowd of 72,008 at Reynolds Razorback Stadium quiet, as Williams was immobilized and strapped to a stretcher before heading to Washington Regional Medical Center.

Arkansas Coach Bret Bielema issued a statement on Sunday that read, in part, "A timetable for his return to the football field is unclear, but we are thankful that he is doing well and is with his family. Thank you to everyone for the well wishes, thoughts and prayers."

Williams ran for 18 yards on 4 carries against Auburn to take his season total to 254 rushing yards, with 1 touchdown and 4.5 yards per carry.

Auburn Coach Gus Malzahn wished Williams well during his postgame remarks on Saturday, and took time to call to the freshman on Sunday.

Arkansas Coach Bret Bielema publicized the phone call with a post to his Twitter account Sunday afternoon: "A special thank you to Auburn football for reaching out to @The3rdRawleigh and a phone call this morning from Coach Malzahn. #Class #SEC."

Sports on 10/26/2015

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