Indiana University’s defensive coordinator, Bryant Haines, has been awarded the prestigious Broyles Award, recognizing him as the country’s top assistant coach. The announcement was made during a ceremony held on March 14, 2024, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. This accolade marks a significant milestone in Haines’ coaching career, following his status as a finalist for the award last year.
Haines played a pivotal role in guiding Indiana to a national championship, leading a defensive unit that achieved remarkable statistics. The team ranked second nationally in scoring defense and fourth in total defense, demonstrating Haines’ effective coaching strategies and ability to develop players. His efforts have not only garnered individual recognition but have also elevated the team’s overall performance on the national stage.
In the 30th year of the Broyles Award’s history, other finalists included prominent coaches such as Mike Bobo from Georgia, Corey Hetherman from Miami, Matt Patricia from Ohio State, and Shiel Wood from Texas Tech. The selection committee, which comprises Hall of Fame coaches, members of the Football Writers Association of America, and broadcasters, evaluated a total of 64 nominees representing approximately 1,500 assistant coaches across the country.
The Broyles Award was established in 1996 to honor the legacy of former Arkansas coach Frank Broyles, known for his success in mentoring assistant coaches. This year marked a significant shift in the voting process, as fans were granted a single collective vote for the first time, adding an engaging element to the selection.
Haines’ recognition not only highlights his exceptional coaching abilities but also underscores the growing importance of defensive strategies in college football. As the landscape of the sport continues to evolve, effective defensive coordination remains crucial for achieving championship success. Haines is now set to continue his work at Indiana, where expectations will be high following this remarkable achievement.
