Posted at 8:49 a.m., Thursday, January 17, 2008
CFB: QB Mallett transfer to Arkansas from Michigan
Associated Press
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Quarterback Ryan Mallett, who played one year at Michigan, has transferred to Arkansas.University spokesman Kevin Trainor said today that Mallett was in the process of enrolling in classes. After sitting out the 2008 season, the 6-foot-7 Mallett will have three years of eligibility.
A pocket passer, Mallett transferred after Michigan hired Rich Rodriguez last month to succeed retiring coach Lloyd Carr. The former West Virginia coach plans to have his spread offense led by a mobile quarterback, making Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino's scheme more attractive to Mallett.
Mallett played in 11 games last season as a freshman, filling in for Chad Henne when he was injured. Mallett was 61-of-141 for 892 yards with seven touchdown passes and five interceptions.
Mallett, who lived on the Arkansas side of Texarkana, threw for more than 2,500 yards and had 27 touchdowns as a senior at Texarkana High School.
Mallett moved into a dorm room with tight end Ben Cleveland on Monday, and his admission to Arkansas was completed on Wednesday.
"We got all the paperwork to certify him as a student-athlete," said Marvin Caston, Arkansas assistant athletic director of compliance. "We just had to go through the process and be patient."
Senior quarterback Casey Dick is expected to be the Razorback starter. Also on the roster at QB is Dick's younger brother, Nathan, who will be a redshirt freshman.
