David Braun, who led this year’s Bison defense to a No. 1 ranking in total defense, was named Coordinator of The Year by FootballScoops. Braun, who in addition to defensive coordinator duties is also the safeties coach, represented the NCAA’s Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) with this award.

Braun, in his third season at NDSU, guided the Bison defense to a No. 1 national ranking in scoring defense (11.2 ppg) as well as ranking third in rushing defense (82.7 ypg), third in total defense (259.7 ypg), fourth in sacks (3.50/game), second in third-down conversion defense (.263) and fifth in red-zone defense (.667) heading into the championship game against Montana State.

Entering the FCS Championship game, North Dakota State’s defense has allowed just six rushing touchdowns and 2.72 yards per carry on 425 attempts. Bison opponents have made 24 trips into the red zone — third-fewest in the FCS this year — and converted only 11 touchdowns with one fumble, two interceptions and four turnovers on downs. They have also collected 49 sacks.

The award-winning coach is selected by previous winners. Braun becomes the third Bison coordinator to win this award joining former Bison Head Coach Chris Kleiman (2012) and current Head Coach Matt Entz (2018).