:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/24079389/451570439.0.jpg)
While several of his players, like Marcus Smith and Calvin Pryor, have not been recognized for their outstanding defensive play this year, Louisville defensive coordinator Vance Bedford is. Bedford was named one of 40 finalists for the Frank Broyles Award today. The Broyles Award is given annually to honor the nation's most outstanding assistant coach.
Charlie Strong was a nominee for the award when he accepted the Louisville head coaching position. Previous winners include current Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn, Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart, and LSU defensive coordinator John Chavis. Last year, Notre Dame defensive coordinator Bob Diaco won the award.
It's hard to argue Bedford's worthiness in 2013. With one game remaining on the schedule, Louisville has only allowed more than one touchdown in two of its games. Using Football Outsiders' S&P+ defensive ratings (a rating system that is adjusted for quality of opponent among other things), Louisville currently field the nation's #10 rated defense. You can see a full list of the nominees here.