For the first time in the Chad Morris era, Arkansas has a quarterback it can feel confident about when it comes to consistently executing the offense at a high level.

If you missed the news, SMU graduate transfer quarterback Ben Hicks is headed to Fayetteville to reunite with his former head coach on The Hill. Hicks was SMU’s starting quarterback under Morris from 2016-2017. Hicks is expected to enroll early in Fayetteville meaning he will be available to go through spring practice with the team in the coming weeks.

Hicks leaves SMU as the most accomplished passer in school history. During his three-year career at the school, Hicks threw for 9,081 yards, 71 touchdowns and 34 interceptions while completing 56.7 percent of his passes.

The new Arkansas QB joined Arkansas-based ESPN radio show “The Morning Rush” hosted by John Nabors on Tuesday to break down his decision to come to transfer to Fayetteville. To no surprise, Chad Morris played an integral part in Hicks’ decision.

Hicks on why he picked Arkansas:

“Just the opportunity to play for Coach Morris and his staff again,” Hicks said of his decision. “I really enjoyed my visit and right after I felt like it was an opportunity I couldn’t let pass, I’m really excited.”

Hicks on why he believes Chad Morris will turn Arkansas around:

“Well, we saw it at SMU. His first year at SMU wasn’t great but it got better and better and I think that’s exactly what he’ll do and what I hope to do when it comes to Arkansas. I just think he’ll gradually get the program better and better. I think Arkansas fans should be excited about having him at Arkansas. I’m really looking forward to this season, it’s going to be fun to get to work with those guys, I’m real excited.”

Hicks on playing for Morris:

“Coach Morris is a real smart guy, he understands football, he understands his quarterbacks. He has high energy, he’s always juiced up and ready to go and that energy feeds over to the team. I had a blast working with him at SMU, I know it’s going to be the same at Arkansas. He’s a great guy, high energy at all times. Like I said, he’s had a lot of success with QBs. I’m looking forward to having a successful year at Arkansas with him.”

Hicks on playing in the SEC:

“I’m excited. Playing in the SEC is something I always dreamed about as a kid. It’s obviously the best conference in the country and to be the best you have to beat the best and I’m excited for the opportunity to play in that conference. It’s a test for myself and I’m excited about the opportunity. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Hicks on something Arkansas fans need to know about him:

“I’m a high energy guy, I love football. It’s been a part of my life as long as I can remember. I’m always going to play really hard, I’m going to compete hard every day, I’m excited and Wooo Pig!”

You can listen to the entire interview with Hicks here or follow any of the links below:

https://twitter.com/HitThatLineAR/status/1085189866860597249