In recent seasons, the Hurricanes defense has often been maligned, criticized, and scrutinized while putting together some less than impressive performances.
But under defensive coordinator Manny Diaz, this year, Miami's defense has proven a pleasant surprise, already notching more tackles for loss than it had all of last year and holding several opponents in check as the Hurricanes have put together a 7-4 record ahead of Saturday's regular-season finale against Duke.
Diaz's efforts have now led to some recognition, with the coordinator being announced Wednesday as one of 40 nominees for the Broyles Award, which is given annnually to the nation's top assistant coach.