Sacred Heart University

Recruiting Areas - Primary: New Jersey (Bergen, Passaic, Sussex, Warren Counties), Virginia (757 area code) | Secondary: Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington

The 2019 season marks the sixth for Ryan Gunningsmith at SHU and his second as the Pioneers' run game coordinator. On the field he is responsible for coaching the Pioneers' offensive line. 

• In his second season as run game coordinator, the Pioneers led the NEC in rushing offense (241.1 ypg) and converted 38.1 percent on third down (tied for 2nd in NEC)
• The Pioneers' offensive line also tied for the second-fewest sacks allowed in 2018 (16 in 11 games)
• SHU's offensive line allowed just 18 sacks in 2017
• Pioneer tight ends and fullbacks contributed seven TD catches in two seasons under Gunningsmith's tutelage
• The unit has played an integral role in the offense averaging over 383 yards  and 27 points per game in 2013 and 2014 
• Gunningsmith came to SHU after two seasons at his alma mater, Springfield College
• He coached the halfbacks, worked with the offensive special teams, was the head coach of the JV team, and served as the offensive video coordinator
• Gunningsmith began his coacing career at Maine Maritime Academy, coaching the linebackers and working as the strength and conditioning coach
• He was a four-year letterwinner at Springfield, starting two seasons at OLB and SS, and was fifth on the team in tackles as a senior
• Gunningsmith graduated in 2010 with a degree in Criminal Justice