Bobby Petrino, former head football coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks, broke his arm in a motorcycle accident on April 1, 2012. The accident occurred while Petrino was riding his motorcycle near Crosses, Arkansas. It was later revealed that Petrino had been accompanied by a former Arkansas athletic department employee, Jessica Dorrell. The accident sparked a media frenzy and ultimately contributed to Petrino’s firing.
Background
Prior to the accident, Petrino had been the head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks since 2008. He had led the team to a 21-5 record in the previous two seasons, and the Razorbacks had been ranked 5th in the nation in 2011.
The Accident
On April 1, 2012, Petrino was riding his motorcycle on a rural road near Crosses, Arkansas when he crashed. He was thrown from the bike, suffering multiple injuries including a cracked cervical vertebrae and four broken ribs. The most serious injury, however, was a broken neck, which required surgery.
Investigation
After the accident, Arkansas State Police began investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. It was soon revealed that Petrino had been accompanied by former Arkansas athletic department employee Jessica Dorrell.
Media Reaction
The news of Petrino’s accident and Dorrell’s involvement sparked a media frenzy. Many questioned Petrino’s judgment in riding a motorcycle with a female passenger. Others focused on Petrino’s relationship with Dorrell, which was later revealed to be an extra-marital affair.
The Aftermath
Petrino was placed on administrative leave by the University of Arkansas on April 10, 2012. On April 18, he was fired after an internal investigation revealed that he had misled school officials about the circumstances of the accident.
Consequences
The consequences of Petrino’s accident and subsequent firing were far-reaching. The Razorback football program suffered a loss of momentum and recruiting, and Petrino’s reputation was severely damaged.
The Rebound
Despite the scandal, Petrino was able to make a successful return to coaching. He was hired as the head coach of Western Kentucky in 2013 and led the team to a Conference USA title in 2016.
Conclusion
Bobby Petrino’s motorcycle accident on April 1, 2012 changed the course of his career. The accident, and the revelations that followed, led to his firing from the University of Arkansas and a significant loss of momentum for the Razorback football program. Despite the scandal, Petrino was able to make a successful return to coaching and is now the head coach of Louisville.
Arkansas coach, Bobby Petrino, motorcycle accident, Jessica Dorrell, media frenzy, firing, consequences, rebound, Western Kentucky, Louisville