Utah Utes football: Andersen named finalist for nation's top assistant

Utah defensive coordinator Gary Andersen has been named one of five finalists for the annual Broyles Award, which is given to the nation's top assistant football coach.

Andersen and his wife, Stacey, will join the other four candidates — TCU defensive coordinator Dick Bumpas, Ball State offensive coordinator Stan Parris, Florida defensive coordinator Charlie Strong and Oklahoma offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson — at an awards banquet in Little Rock, Ark., on Dec. 9.

"It's a great honor for the defensive kids in my opinion," Andersen said. "They are the ones who make the plays."

The Utes (12-0) are currently ranked 11th nationally in opponent third-down conversions, 13th in scoring defense, 14th in rushing defense, 15th in turnover margin, 16 in opponent first-downs and 18th in total defense.

"A great honor for Gary and he deserves it," Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said. "He's very well deserving."

Andersen, who has directed the Utes' defense since 2005, is also getting attention elsewhere. He's considered a top candidate to replace Brent Guy as head coach at Utah State.

When asked about the situation in Logan, Andersen declined comment.

"Success creates opportunity and that's what is going on," Whittingham said of the Broyles accolade and interest in Andersen.

Utah also received positive news on other awards Monday. Louie Sakoda is one of four finalists for the Wuerffel Trophy (community service, academics and athletics) and Brian Johnson is one of 10 candidates for the Manning Award (top quarterback).

Sakoda, who is also a finalist for the Ray Guy, Lou Groza, Draddy, National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete and Lowe's Senior Class awards, joins Chase Daniel (Missouri), Graham Harrell (Texas Tech) and Quin Harris (Louisiana Tech) on the Wuerffel list.

Johnson, who is one of four finalists for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, is joined on the Manning list by Daniel, Harrell, Sam Bradford (Oklahoma), Nate Davis (Ball State), Colt McCoy (Texas), Zac Robinson (Oklahoma State), Mark Sanchez (USC), Matthew Stafford (Georgia) and Tim Tebow (Florida).

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