Arkansas firing Sam Pittman might not happen for a few games due to absurd contract clause

The writing is on the well for Sam Pittman. He's eventually going to be relieved of his duties as Arkansas football head coach. That could very well happen in the next 24 hours after an embarrassing 56-13 home loss to Notre Dame.

But Pittman's buyout could force Arkansas' hand to either eat an additional three million dollars or wait for several weeks before making the move. Pittman's buyout is based on his record from the 2021 season forward. He is currently 29-27 and as long as Pittman is above .500, Arkansas will owe him more money.

Here are the numbers: Arkansas would owe $9.8 million if Pittman is fired while having a record over .500 or $6.9 million if that record falls below .500.

Arkansas has lost three straight. The Razorbacks dropped a 41-35 decision to Ole Miss in Oxford two weeks ago and last week they had a disappointing 32-31 loss to Memphis on the road. But it was today, in front of a packed house at Reynolds Razorback Stadium, where Pittman appeared to lose the team.

Notre Dame dominated Arkansas to the extent of what the final score would suggest. The Irish gained 641 yards and led 42-13 at halftime. By the end of the game, the stadium was nearly empty except for the pockets of Notre Dame fans that made the trip. 

Arkansas should probably eat the money

If reports are correct that Arkansas brought in around $170 million last year, then an additional $3 million shouldn't affect the bottom line much either way. And if the boosters are serious about letting Bobby Petrino run it back (and we can discuss if THAT's a good idea at another time), then it might be best to get that ball rolling immediately.  With Tennessee, Texas A&M and Auburn on the schedule after the upcoming bye week, it's unlikely things will get better.

Pittman was asked about his future and the fan backlash during his post-game press conference and sounded like a guy that knew his fate was determined. 

"I mean...I understand...I get it. If I was a fan I'd be mad at me too. I'd be frustrated as hell with me," Pittman said. "But, here's what I'll say. As long as I'm head coach at Arkansas, I'm going to fight my butt off to get the guys out there.