Because of his background of playing at Air Force, people often look at Arkansas running backs Coach Jemal Singleton with a narrow focus.
Singleton was a three year letterman at Air Force and was named All-Western Athletic Conference honorable mention as a senior. He then started his coaching career with the Falcons and spent 11 years in Colorado Springs before moving on to Oklahoma State.
His military background often scares some.
“I think initially they’re thinking ‘Ole man, there’s going to be this drill sergeant coming in yelling at me’ and then they realize he’s actually a pretty cool dude,” Singleton said.
While at Stillwater, Singleton was instrumental in helping the Cowboys having one of the strongest rushing attacks in the Big XII and tutored Joseph Randle, who was selected in the fifth round by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2013 NFL Draft.
In 2014, Oklahoma State running backs didn't suffer a turnover in 509 rushing attempts. Singleton takes care of business on the field while also having fun.
“I enjoyed playing college football and I want to make sure theses guys get the chance to enjoy it,” Singleton said. “So I’m going to have a good time. Really that’s my approach to life and it’s too short to be upset and grumpy all the time so I want them to have fun. I want to have a good time. I think that’s part of it.”
Because of his style of coaching, Singleton is able to relate well with recruits.
“They interact with you and you start to build a relationship and that’s what all recruiting is and letting them see your personality,” Singleton said.