New Arkansas coach expected to be hired within next 10 days

Arkansas' athletic director had said previously he would like to have new coach by mid-December.

Arkansas is expected to have a new coach in place within the next 10 days, CBSSports.com has learned.

AD Jeff Long had said previously he would like to have a new coach hired by mid-December.

The school announced Saturday morning that, if he chooses, John L. Smith can remain as a consultant through the term of his contract to Feb. 23. The school added that Smith will be reassigned to assist with the transition once the new coach is hired. Arkansas assistants have the option to remain pending the hiring of the new coach.

Smith signed a 10-month, $850,000 contract when he was named to replace Bobby Petrino in April. The Hogs completed their season with a 20-13 loss to LSU on Friday. Rated in the top 10 in the preseason, Arkansas finished 4-8 to equal the school record for losses in a season.