Newby- Thomas connection helping Arkansas

Joel Thomas, pictured during a Washington-Boise State game, was hired by the Razorbacks on Monday and has helped Terrell Newby's interest toward the Razorbacks.

Running back Terrell Newby's interest in Arkansas instantly went up when Joel Thomas was named the Hogs' running back coach.

Newby, 5-10, 185 4.39 seconds in the 40 yard dash, of West Hills,(Calif.) Chaminade was recruited by Thomas while he was assistant coach at Washington and the two developed a good relationship. He said he plans to talk to Thomas about setting up an official to Fayetteville.

"My position coach and the whole coaching staff," said Newby on what will lure him to a school. "It really comes down to my position coach and how I feel on campus."

A 4-star recruit by national recruiting analyst Tom Lemming of CBS Sports Network, Newby had an outstanding senior season with 301 carries for 2,305 yards and 45 touchdowns. He credits his hard work for his success.

"It just shows up on film and during games," Newby said. "A lot of coaches have told me I'm an all around back. That's one of the things I pride myself on is blocking, running the ball but also being able to catch the ball out of the backfield."

Newby, who also said his parents think highly of Thomas, has officially visited Nebraska and plans to visit UCLA on Jan. 11. He'll represent the United States when the USA Team take on The World Under-19 football game in Austin, Texas .

Arkansas Coach Bret Bielema' track record of producing top running backs while at Wisconsin has Newby's attention.

"I've definitely noticed that Wisconsin has always produced rushers like Montee Ball." said Newby, who has recorded a 10.77 laser time in the 100 meters.