Jan. 16, 2007

LITTLE ROCK (AP) - Virginia Tech defensive coordinator Bud Foster received the Broyles Award on Tuesday, given annually to the nation's top assistant coach.

Foster, who won the award in his fourth year as a finalist, coached the nation's top-ranked defense. Virginia Tech allowed 219 yards per game while going 10-3.

"We've worked very hard at Virginia Tech to build the kind of program - we want to be a national leader and be thought of in the national spotlight," Foster said. "I'm proud of what our players have accomplished, what our staff has accomplished. This is just a direct reflection on their hard work and commitment."

The Broyles Award is named for Arkansas athletic director Frank Broyles. He was the Razorbacks' football coach for 19 seasons, and more than 25 of his assistants became head coaches, including Joe Gibbs, Jimmy Johnson, Johnny Majors and Jackie Sherrill.

"Bud is wonderful. He's deserved it many, many times," Broyles said. "When you look at his record, it's unsurpassed."

Foster was a finalist in 1999, 2001 and 2005.

Virginia Tech had four shutouts in 2006, and cornerback Brandon Flowers was a third-team All-America selection. The Hokies were No. 19 in the final AP poll.

Virginia Tech was also ranked No. 1 in total defense in 2005 and No. 4 at the end of the 2004 season.

Foster, 47, has been at Virginia Tech for 20 seasons, 12 as defensive coordinator. Although he's obviously in no rush, he said he does have ambitions to be a head coach.

"Without a doubt," he said. "That's one of my goals - to be a head football coach. I have a great job. I can be selective."

This year's other Broyles Award finalists included Arkansas defensive coordinator Reggie Herring, Louisville offensive coordinator Paul Petrino, Ohio State quarterbacks coach Joe Daniels and Oklahoma defensive coordinator Brent Venables.