CMU's Colby a Broyles Nominee
12/4/2015 12:00:00 AM | Football
Andy Sneddon, CMUChippewas.com
MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. - Central Michigan defensive coordinator Greg Colby has been nominated for the 2015 Broyles Award, which goes to the top assistant coach in college football.
In his first year at CMU, Colby led a defense that finished second, statistically, in the Mid-American Conference despite returning just five starters.
Two of those starters - end Joe Ostman and middle linebacker Tim Hamilton -- were lost to season-ending injuries relatively early in the season. CMU had 11 defensive players get the first start of their respective college careers this season.
"That says a lot," first-year CMU head coach John Bonamego said. "I mean, the proof's always in the pudding. I think it says a lot about his ability to teach and install a system, when you can plug guys in that haven't played very much and get them to play at a high level."
The Chippewas finished the regular season 7-5 and will learn their bowl destination on Sunday.
The Chippewas led the MAC in first downs allowed per game (16.8) and passing yards allowed (189.7), ranked second in red zone defense (74.4 percent), ranked third in scoring defense (22.1) and in rushing defense (139.3).
Central Michigan has been particularly strong after halftime, giving up and average of just 5.8 points, 134.8 total yards (54.3 rushing, 80.5 passing) and 7.5 first downs. Nationally the Chippewas are 20th in total defense.
