Thursday morning recruiting tidbits

Junior college forward Elgin Cook is receiving interest from Arkansas.

Arkansas commitment and linebacker Myke Tavarres of College of the Siskiyous said he received a call from new coach Bret Bielema on Wednesday and came way extremely impressed. He said Bielema first asked about him as a person and then talked football.

He said he definitely feels more comfortable about Bielema after not knowing much about him. Very encouraged about Bielema's defensive background, he's expecting a visit from Bielema next week.

Tavarres plans to officially visit Boise St. this weekend and then make a final decision after this semester.

Arkansas commitment and running back Kaleb Blanchard of Denham Springs, La. said he was shocked by the hiring of Bielema but pleased with it. He said Bielema is supposed to come to his school next week.

Arkansas basketball coach Mike Anderson and assistant coach Melvin Watkins will watch shooting forward Elgin Cook of Northwest Florida State College on Sunday when they play Palm Beach. Cook has offers from New Mexico, TCU and Washington while Arkansas is showing strong interest.