Arkansas Business

This story is from the archives of ArkansasSports360.com.

Gus Malzahn hasn’t forgotten where he came from.

Malzahn makes no effort at downplaying his history as an Arkansas high school coach. In fact, the Arkansas State coach and former high-profile SEC offensive coordinator points to his time in the state’s prep ranks as one of the reasons he’s been so successful at the college level.

“These are my roots,” Malzahn said in the 2012 ArkansasSports360.com Football Preview. “I got the opportunity to go into college six years ago and it’s been a blessing, but the foundation and my identity are being an Arkansas high school football coach.”

Offensively, Malzahn runs a scheme based on what he developed at Hughes, Shiloh Christian and Springdale. He implemented portions of it Arkansas, Tulsa and Auburn.

Below is video of Malzahn explaining how one of his favorite plays out of the Wildcat formation works. He used it at Springdale High and also with a couple guys named Darren and Cam. Perhaps you’ve heard of them?

Auburn set nine school records in 2010. In two years the Tigers improved from 110th in scoring offense to 7th. Tulsa topped the nation in total offense in 2007 and 2008, Malzahn’s only two years with the Hurricane.

NFL coaches have adapted elements of the philosophy. Colleges — not just small schools — are running no-huddle.

A system ridiculed in 2006 by some Arkansas staff members as “high school” is now widely respected. Malzahn will admit — with some prodding — that he gets a sense of satisfaction in seeing his offense used at all levels of football.

“It’s fun to watch, you know?” Malzahn said.

For more on Malzahn’s rise from high school coach to college coach, check out: Gus Malzahn Wastes No Time In Getting ASU Red Wolves To Think ‘Big-Time'.