My dear friend, Coach Gus Malzahn of the Springdale Bulldogs and formerly of the Shiloh Saints, joined the staff of the Arkansas Razorbacks as Offensive Coordinator today.  What a tremendous moment and experience this is for Gus, Kristi, Kylie, and Kensie.  I am so proud of them and very excited about their future in this new assignment.

Gus’ Springdale Bulldogs have climbed to #2 in the Student Sports National Poll and #5 in USA TODAY.  This is a big, WOW!  These young men and their coaching staff have created a phenomenal thing for High School Football in the state of Arkansas.  I was there on Saturday night when they played that State Championship Game.  They were superb and disciplined in every way.  What a team and we are so proud of them.

Coach Houston Nutt has demonstrated great humility in this change in his strategy as a Head Coach and even with the hire of Gus.  This humility is demonstrated because he was willing to give up in order to go up!  The humility is seen because of his willingness to turn the offense over completely to another coach, even a nationally renown high school coach.  The humility is not to do that alone, but is seen in that the system of college coaching the attitude by most is, "high school coaches could not do what we do," yet history proves there have been exceptional high school coaches who leap up the ranks, rather than play the "college football company game" by going up their system.  I am so proud of Houston and his willingness to do this.  It shows a lot about him and a lot about his desire to connect with the fans and with a great coach named Gus Malzahn.

I wish the season kicked off on Saturday… I am pumped!  Now, the reason is not just football alone, but the consistent character that is demonstrated by Gus Malzahn.  What an attribute that will be to the Razorback Nation and to the parents who send their young sons into the football family here at the U of A.  Let me testify:  Gus coached both of my sons… he is unique, godly, disciplined, affirming, but at the same time will deal with business if loafing replaces the love of the game or whining replaces a commitment to winning.  Any parent can be very comforted in letting their son become a Razorback that connects with Gus Malzahn.  My son, Josh, was his first Quarterback in the creation of the famous, "Hurry Up, No Huddle" offense, as well as the Quarterback of the first state championship that Coach Malzahn won.  My son, Nick, was on the first and the second State Championship teams as a Running Back/Receiver in this same offensive system.  The memories they have of those moments contribute to both of their successes today in a major way.

Enough football talk… be in church Sunday… if you are in Northwest Arkansas, connect with our church.  We would love to have you with us.  Also, do not forget our special Christmas program at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday at our Springdale Campus… it is for everyone of all ages and there is no cost for this event at all.