RB Green cleared to play for Arkansas

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas running back Broderick Green will not have to sit out a season after transferring from Southern California.

The Arkansas athletic department confirmed Thursday that the NCAA has cleared Green to play. When Green said in November he was leaving USC, he said it was to be with his ailing grandmother in Little Rock.

“Our compliance staff worked closely with Broderick’s family to develop a thorough waiver request based on his personal circumstances,” Razorbacks coach Bobby Petrino said. “The NCAA carefully considered his waiver and granted Broderick immediate eligibility. We are obviously pleased with their decision.”

The 6-foot-2, 248-pound Green should add depth at running back for the Hogs, who relied heavily on starter Michael Smith last season. The 5-foot-7 Smith rushed for 1,072 yards, but he was the only Arkansas running back with over 36 carries and showed signs of being overworked.

Green was a high school star at Little Rock’s Pulaski Academy, then signed with USC in 2007. He redshirted that year and played six games last season. He rushed for 168 yards on 32 carries.

“I am excited about the opportunity to play for Arkansas this season,” Green said. “I appreciate the support of coach Petrino, the rest of the coaching staff and the athletic department administration in helping make this outcome a reality.”