University
of Florida defensive coordinator Dan Quinn has been named one of five
finalists for the FootballScoop Defensive Coordinator of the Year, announced by
the web site on Tuesday.
Quinn
has led the Gators defensive unit to prominence this season, as the they are
currently lead the nation in pass efficiency defense (91.76) and sixth in run
defense (95 ypg.). Florida ranks fifth in total yardage allowed and have been
on the field for more snaps than any other defenses (728 plays). The Gators
have scooped up 24 turnovers, 19th best in the nation, including 16
interceptions which ranks 10th in the country. Florida has yielded
11.7 points per game to rank third nationally in scoring defense and fourth in
total defense (281.0 ypg.). The 11.7 points per game allowed is the Gators’
lowest total since 1964 when they averaged 9.8.
UF
is currently ninth in the nation in turnover margin this year at +13 and the 24
turnovers are the most since 2010. They have allowed just three opponent touchdowns
in its last 14 red zone trips and have held its last three foes, and six overall,
to less than 100 yards in games against the Orange and Blue this season.
The
Gators have also been able to keep a lid on explosive plays against some very
good offensive competition, ranking in the top ten in opponents explosive plays
of 10-plus, and 20-plus yards, and leading the nation in opponent's plays of
30-plus yards allowing just seven on the season. UF is only one of two units in
the nation that have not allowed single rush of over 30 yards all season.
Quinn
joins an elite list of defensive coordinators on the list including Bob Diaco
(Notre Dame), Derek Mason (Stanford), Kirby Smart (Alabama) and Mark Stoops (Florida
State). Finalists were selected based off of nominations by coaches, athletic
directors, and athletic department personnel. The winner will be chosen by the
previous
winners of the award and will be announced
on Tuesday, Dec. 4th.
