FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (AP) - Bobby Petrino's dramatic fall topped a year that won't soon be forgotten in Arkansas.
The former Razorbacks coach began 2012 with a Cotton Bowl win over Kansas State, capping a remarkable 21-5 two-season stretch for Arkansas. He appeared well on his way to rebuilding his tarnished reputation following a mid-season exit from the NFL's Atlanta Falcons in 2007.
That progress came to a crashing halt following Petrino's April 1 motorcycle accident about 20 miles southeast of Fayetteville, a wreck that led to the revelation the married father of four had hired his mistress to a position in the athletic department.
Bret Bielema was hired earlier this month as Petrino's long-term replacement, but only after a disastrous 4-8 season under interim coach John L. Smith.
