Michael Dyer: Transfer to Arkansas State Severely Damages Auburn Tigers

The Auburn Tigers suffered a huge blow on Tuesday that is going to be difficult to overcome.

Star running back Michael Dyer has officially transferred from the Tigers to Arkansas State.

The two-time All-SEC running back will have two years of eligibility remaining to play under new head coach Gus Malzahn, who was the offensive coordinator at Auburn during Dyer’s tenure with the team.

Malzahn is understandably thrilled to death to have Dyer on board:

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We are excited to have one of the top running backs in college football join our program, and we welcome him to our Arkansas State family. Michael is obviously a proven player, and he will certainly make a great addition to our team.

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In a move that shocked many, Dyer requested his release from the program a couple weeks ago.

But when you dig deeper, you remember that Dyer was suspended for this year’s Chick-fil-A bowl for undisclosed reasons and had not spoken with head coach Gene Chizik since. Another factor is that Dyer is from Little Rock and will now be returning close to home.

It’s a huge loss for the Tigers, and there is no way they can replace him this upcoming season. Dyer ran for 2,335 yards in his two years and is 10th on the all-time list. He was the offensive MVP in the 2011 championship year and finished his tenure at Auburn with 15 TD.

If the Chick-fil-A bowl was any indicator, it’s going to be a long year for Auburn. Aside from a 60-yard run from Onterio McCalebb, the running game wasn't too effective against a middle-of-the-road Virginia defense without Dyer.

Dyer was the every-down back that helped them transition out of the Cam Newton era and keep things balanced.

Tough day to stomach for Tiger fans.