Southern Utah University Athletics

Coach Runda joins Southern Utah after recently serving at Iowa State, where he helped lead one of the nation’s top defenses. The Cyclones ranked among the best in total defense, recording 33 sacks and earning a berth in the 2021 Cheez-It Bowl.

Known for his 3-3-5 defensive scheme and split-field coverage concepts, Runda has coached linebackers and coordinated defenses at multiple stops, including Bluffton, Ohio Wesleyan, Indianapolis, and Wilmington. As defensive coordinator at Bluffton, he helped develop a conference Defensive Player of the Year.

A former standout linebacker at Bluffton University, Runda was a three-time all-conference selection and still ranks among the program’s leaders in tackles. He holds both a bachelor’s degree and an MBA from Bluffton.