Notre Dame’s Bob Hinton Defensive Coordinator Al Golden has been named a finalist for the prestigious 2024 Broyles Award, which recognizes the top assistant coach in college football. Golden’s leadership has propelled the Fighting Irish defense to national prominence, showcasing one of the most dominant units in the country.
Under Golden’s guidance, Notre Dame’s defense ranks among the nation’s elite, finishing the regular season atop multiple FBS statistical categories. The Irish rank:
- 1st in team passing efficiency defense (94.10)
- 1st in turnovers gained (28)
- 1st in defensive touchdowns (6)
- 3rd in scoring defense (13.6 points per game)
- 4th in passing yards allowed (157.9 per game)
- 4th in interceptions (17)
- 7th in fumbles recovered (11)
- 9th in red zone defense (0.733)
- 10th in total defense (296.8 yards per game)
- 10th in first downs allowed (197)
Golden’s defense consistently stifled opponents, holding seven teams to 125 or fewer passing yards – the most in the FBS this season. The Irish also limited six opponents to 250 or fewer total yards, tied for second-most nationally.
Game-changing plays have been a hallmark of Golden’s defense. Notre Dame led the nation with 28 turnovers gained, resulting in a remarkable 141 points scored off those opportunities, compared to just 34 points allowed (+107 differential).
The Irish defense has been especially stingy in the red zone and on the scoreboard, allowing 16 or fewer points in 10 games this season. Only one opponent scored more than 30 points against Notre Dame, a defensive consistency not seen since the 2012 season.
Notre Dame also excelled in high-profile matchups, going 4-0 against ranked opponents in 2024, tied for the most ranked wins in the FBS.
Golden’s impact on the Irish defense has been nothing short of transformative, earning him well-deserved recognition as a finalist for college football’s most prestigious assistant coaching honor.
Notre Dame will host Indiana in the College Football Playoff on Friday, December 20th at 8:00 p.m. ET.