Arizona defensive coordinator Danny Gonzales named Broyles Award semifinalist

Danny Gonzales saved one of his best gameplans for the Territorial Cup, neutralizing a potent run game and neutralizing their offense altogether. It was the kind of performance befitting of a unit coached by one of the top assistants in college football.

Arizona’s defensive coordinator has made the cut as one of 15 semifinalists still alive for the Broyles Award, given to the top assistant in the country.

Gonzales, in his first season running the UA defense, has it ranked 16th nationally in yards allowed per game, 4th in pass defense and No. 1 in takeaways. The Wildcats have held 10 opponents under 200 passing yards including the last eight, the longest such streak since Missouri in 2004.

The 18.9 points allowed per game, which ranks 19th in FBS, is Arizona’s lowest since 1998 when it gave up 18 per game in going 12-1, the best record in school history.

Like with the original list of nominees, fans can vote to help move coaches to the final round. Voting is open through Sunday night, with one vote allowed per day.