DALLAS -- Sophomore running back Brandon Holmes will make his first start since early October when Arkansas plays Oklahoma on Tuesday in the Cotton Bowl.

Arkansas coach Houston Nutt said that Cedric Cobbs -- who had been scheduled to start against the Sooners -- practiced a little on Friday after sitting out Thursday's practice.

Cobbs has complained of pain in his back since lifting weights last week. He was one of five Razorbacks scheduled to participate in a news conference on Friday, but he was replaced by guard La'Zerius White.

Nutt said he expects Cobbs to play some against the Sooners (10-2) and said that Fred Talley also would be available. Talley, who led the Razorbacks (7-4) in rushing with 774 yards, topped 100 yards four times during the season. Nutt suspended him a few weeks ago after a fight outside a bar.

Nutt said he decided to allow Talley to play "after looking at everything" and talking with the seniors. "He's had enough punishment," Nutt said.

But it would be asking a lot for Cobbs or Talley to contribute significantly. In turn, the situation could increase the role of Decori Birmingham, one of five true freshmen who played in every game. He had a total of 24 carries for 87 yards.

"With a game like this, against that defense, you had better go with the ones that have been giving it to you as far as the reps at practice," Nutt said.

Holmes started against Georgia on Sept. 29 and against Weber State the following week, carrying a total of 26 times for 76 yards. Holmes played in seven games, but carried only one time after a suspension in mid-October. A year ago, Holmes carried the load when Arkansas became bowl-eligible by closing the season with victories over Mississippi State and LSU.

The Razorbacks practiced more than two hours on Friday and only the first 20 minutes was open.

"There was much more concentration and things came back a little easier," Nutt said. "Yesterday, you thought, 'Wow, you can tell we've been away from home, opening up presents and eating too much.' Today, the recalls and checks ... everything was a lot smoother."