LITTLE ROCK, AR - Wisconsin's coach is coming to Arkansas. Bret Bielema takes over for John L. Smith as the new Arkansas Razorback head coach.
"I think it was a good hire,” fan Jonathan Thompsons said. “He's had a good career at Wisconsin - 3 straight Rose Bowls shows it was a good hire for Jeff Long."
The announcement was lighting up the phone lines as fans discuss on talk radio what this new coach could bring to the team.
Fans say while Bielema isn't a name they expected, they're pleased with the choice after a disappointing season with John L. Smith.
"He really did try sometimes, but at the same time I just didn't think he was missing in so many areas," fan James Goodwin said.
"I'm happy we have a new coach who isn't John L. Smith," fan Cody Borin said.
Razorback fans say they're optimistic a new coach will help lead the team to new heights next season.
"I'm pretty pumped, he's got a lot to work with as far as younger talent on the defensive side of the ball,” fan Daniel Massirer said. “We've got a lot of people coming back - freshmen linebackers that got a lot of good playing time, so we've got a lot to build on and even though we're losing a good quarterback, we still have some off the line men coming up strong, so he's got a lot to be expected in the next couple years."
In a statement from Bielema Tuesday evening, he said he was humbled and honored to join the program and plans to lead the Razorbacks in a way the fans will be proud of.
