Talk is cheap.
Action isn't.
On Thursday Arkansas State University announced its action plan for the new football offices and practice facility that will be built in the north end zone of the soon-to-be-renamed ASU Stadium.
The price tag is $22 million.
But even larger than the price tag is the commitment that the school is making to football. It speaks volumes. It shouts to the rest of the state and the region: "We are A-State!"
It is significant.
A 1982 graduate, it is easy to say, this is not my ASU. Well it is. It will always be. But it is a new day in Jonesboro.
We have heard this talk and the worn out phrases of "next level" and "Boise State of the South" for months now. If that is going to happen, this is the first step.
Recruits have mentioned the new facility when interviewed about their commitment or their visits. We now see the reality.
Here is a look at that reality:
http://www.arkst.com/board/index.php?topic=55147.0
Even more impressive is the promise the $22 million facility will be from Red Wolf Club funds. Seems the RWC is heading into new territory as well.
It is indeed a promising day for the school's football program and its supporters.
If ASU is going to improve its status in the world of college football this is the next step.