Points Made By Gus Malzahn - Press Conference

I posted this in another thread but thought it might answer some questions re: his choice to be at ASU.

Gus made it very clear in his press conference yesterday that he is exactly (beyond any doubt) where he wants to be. He is the one who contacted the AD this past Thursday after the job became available. He is good friends with a lot of high school coaches in the area (present and former) and made it clear that he is proud to be a former high school coach. Hugh Freeze and Steve Roberts are close friends as well, so he knew exactly what he wanted and the situation at hand. He was just waiting for the right time for the situation to present itself and the right time is now, and the right situation is at ASU.

He stated that coming home was what he really preferred to do, beyond being any place else, and it's where he plans to be for a very long time. He stressed this.

I could tell that he was really thankful for his time at AU and made it very clear regarding his love and respect for AU. He just wanted to return home and be instrumental in taking ASU to another level. The AD also made reference to what has been done at schools like Boise State and that he, GM, and the university are ready and committed to enabling and making this happen.

He stated that he felt like he and his family will get the love and support they need in the Jonesboro community and doesn't prefer to be anywhere else. Beyond any doubt, he made these points very clear.

Regarding his choice in taking a cut in salary, etc., he stated something to the effect 'I'm not what one would call a typical or "normal coach" and I don't tend to make typical or "normal coach" choices.' (paraphrasing)

It makes sense. That's one reason he's been very successful.