Arkansas Sports 360 - ArkansasSports360.com

2/1/2012 at 2:31pm

ASU Coach Gus Malzahn appeared on ESPNU to discuss his 2012 signing class.

Naturally, Gus Malzahn's recruiting pitch includes his history with Heisman Trophy winner and future overall No. 1 pick Cam Newton. It also includes mentions of Malzahn's other college quarterbacks, including Mitch Mustain.

Malzahn appeared on ESPNU Tuesday to offer a simulated recruiting meeting with a quarterback prospect. Hementioned ASU’s 10 wins in 2011 and then turned his attention to a position-specific approach.

“How does $22 million sound? You can do that in this offense,” Malzahn said as video of former Auburn Tiger and No. 1 overall draft pick Cam Newton played.

Included in the pitch were highlights of success for quarterbacks he’d coached at Auburn, Tulsa and even Arkansas. He mentioned Mitch Mustain’s 8-0 record as proof the Malzahn-system is suited for freshman quarterbacks.

It was enough to impress at least one ESPNU analyst.

“If you can show me Cam Newton … and show some of those numbers in the past,” David Pollack said, “… Gus Malzahn makes it pretty easy on the quarterbacks.”

Malzahn’s “recruiting pitch” was pre-recorded, but he also appeared on the segment via phone. As if to point out the success of his visits with players, Malzahn mentioned ASU had signed Pulaski Academy quarterback Fredi Knighten, "a Parade All-American."

Running back Michael Dyer was also a topic of discussion. Dyer, a two-time all-SEC pick, transferred from Auburn to ASU after being suspended indefinitely by the Tigers.

Dyer will have to sit out in 2012 unless he’s granted a waiver by the NCAA. Malzahn said once recruiting has ended, the program will turn its attention to Dyer’s eligibility.

“We feel like Michael Dyer is one of best running backs in college football,” Malzahn said. “We’re fortunate to have him. We really feel like he can showcase his skills here. It’s jut a matter of this year or next.”

For more on the players signed by Arkansas State, click here. Jim Harris will have more on the class and Malzahn’s reaction after a 3 p.m. press conference in Jonesboro.

Thanks to the fellas at Illegalshift.com for grabbing the video and getting it posted.

Tagged: Arkansas State Red Wolves, ASU Red Wolves, Michael Dyer, Gus Malzahn, Mitch Mustain, Cam Newton