REPORTS: Paul Rhoads lands in Arkansas

 Former Iowa State head coach Paul Rhoads has found a landing spot: Fayetteville, Ark.

 FootballScoop.com first reported the news. 

 Rhoads was fired in November as the Cyclones limped to a 3-9 finish and spent the third straight bowl season at home. 

 His fire, passion and enthusiasm made him a fan, player and media favorite in Ames.

 ISU played in three bowls in his first four seasons, but its only win came in the 2009 Insight Bowl.

 That he cared deeply about Iowa State is indisputable. In his farewell news conference, Rhoads, who grew up in Nevada and Ankeny, wished the next Cyclone coach (turned out to be Matt Campbell), “nothing but the best.”

 Rhoads has SEC experience, having served as Auburn’s defensive coordinator in 2008 before head coach Tommy Tuberville resigned. 

 Rhoads compiled a 32-55 road in Ames. Included in those 32 wins were numerous memorable upsets, most notably the 37-31 double overtime win over then-No. 2 Oklahoma State that rocked the BCS — as well as Jack Trice Stadium.