Tenpenny likes hiring of Bielema

North Little Rock running back Altee Tenpenny jumps over Cabot defensive back Jordan Burke during the Charging Wildcats’ 28-0 victory in the Class 7A quarterfinals Friday night in North Little Rock. Tenpenny, who rushed for 141 yards in Friday’s victory, was penalized on the play for hurdling. The Charging Wildcats will begin their first season without Tenpenny tonight after Tenpenny graduated and signed with Alabama.

After receiving more information about Arkansas' new head coach Bret Bielema, North Little Rock running back Altee Tenpenny likes what he's heard.

"At first, I really didn't know much about the new coach until (Charging Wildcats) coach (Brad) Bolding broke down to me his running game," said Tenpenny, who's committed to Alabama. "And the way he developed Montee Ball and developed the running game at Wisconsin. That's a plus."

Tenpenny rushed 145 times for 1,232 yards and 15 touchdowns and earned a spot on the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Super Sophomore team in 2010. He missed his junior season because of an injury. Click here for senior highlights

Under Bielema, Wisconsin is best known for their strong running game and that was evident during the 2010 season when the Badgers almost had three 1,000 yard rushers for the season. James White rushed for 1,052 yards, John Clay had 1,012 while Montee Ball finished with 996.

"As a recruit, you're not looking for a new coach to come in, especially a running back and try and run the spread offense when you're going to get less carries," Tenpenny said. "You want to get as many carries as you can. For him to have that many 1,000 yard rushers is great."

Tenpenny, who had 193 carries for 1,379 yards and 21 touchdowns as a senior, said he missed a call from Bielema Wednesday night while he was at his job.

"So first thing tomorrow , once I have time I'll give him a shout." Tenpenny said.

He said he plans to officially visit Arkansas during the Jan. 18-21 weekend.

"I'm just really looking to go up there on my official so me and my family meet and talk to him." Tenpenny said.

Tenpenny (5-foot-11, 215 pounds, 4.32 seconds in the 40 yard dash) also plans official visits to Alabama and Oklahoma State.