Former ISU football coach Paul Rhoads has found his new home, and it’s back in the SEC. 

Arkansas announced Wednesday that Rhoads is joining the staff as the new defensive backs coach. Rhoads was the defensive coordinator at Auburn the season before his move to Iowa State in 2009. 

“I’m thrilled to be joining the Arkansas program and can’t wait to help build on the success coach Bielema and the staff have already experienced in three years,” Rhoads said in a statement. “Not only does coach Bielema have a track record of building winning programs but also developing young men of great character. Both are things I’m excited to be part of.”

Rhoads spent seven seasons with Iowa State, running up a 32-55 record and three bowl appearances.

Rhoads finished his final season at Iowa State with a 3-9 record and was fired after losing in the closing minutes against Kansas State. He coached his final game Nov. 28 against West Virginia. New head coach Matt Campbell was hired that night.

“Paul has had a long-standing reputation as a great teacher and recruiter even prior to his years of experience as a coordinator and head coach,” said Arkansas coach Bret Bielema in a statement. “He instantly brings years of experience to our defensive staff room and has coached the secondary and defensive backs to the highest levels of success.”