By most metrics, Pitt’s defense graded out as one of the best in the FBS last season.
Defensive coordinator Randy Bates, the man who unleashed Pitt’s top-20 unit, was honored Tuesday by the American Football Coaches Association as the FBS Assistant Coach of the Year.
Bates, who has been on coach Pat Narduzzi’s staff for three seasons, led a defense that was first in the nation in total sacks (46) and tackles for loss (school-record 111). Pitt also was third in rushing defense (93.5 yards per game), ninth in interceptions (14), 13th in turnovers (20) and 20th in total defense (339.5).
Two members of the defense, ends Patrick Jones II and Rashad Weaver, were consensus All-Americans this season.
But the AFCA award recognizes more than accomplishments in football. It also accounts for the honoree’s service within the community.
Bates, a retired Naval Lieutenant, visits the area Veterans Affairs Hospital and buys more than 100 Pitt football tickets for veterans.
“This is a tremendously humbling honor that I gratefully accept on behalf of coach Narduzzi, my fellow assistants and, most importantly, the outstanding young men who proudly wear that Pitt helmet each fall Saturday,” Bates said in a statement. “It really is a program award, and I’m thrilled to share it with our entire Pitt football family.”
“Randy Bates represents the very best of the coaching profession,” Narduzzi said. “He’s a teacher first and foremost. I love that Randy is so passionate and committed to the people he works with, especially our players. He’s a great leader for not only our student-athletes, but also our staff. Randy is very deserving of this award.”
Chosen from a national pool of 26 candidates, Bates is the second Pitt assistant recognized for his efforts since the end of the season. Linebackers coach Rob Harley recently was named defensive coordinator at Arkansas State.
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