Kalen DeBoer of Washington has been named the Associated Press Pac-12 Coach of the Year for the 2020 season. This marks the first time in Washington’s history that a coach has earned this prestigious honor.
DeBoer, who is in his second season as the head coach of the Huskies, led Washington to a 7-2 record in 2020. This included a 5-1 mark in Pac-12 play, with the only loss coming in the regular season finale against Oregon. The Huskies finished the season ranked No. 13 in the AP Poll and earned a berth in the Fiesta Bowl, where they lost to Iowa State.
DeBoer has been praised for his ability to get the most out of his players and for his innovative offensive schemes. He has also been credited with helping to develop quarterback Dylan Morris into one of the top quarterbacks in the Pac-12. Morris finished the season with 2,559 passing yards and 19 touchdowns, while also rushing for 463 yards and six touchdowns.
DeBoer’s success at Washington has been a long time coming. He was hired in 2018 after spending four seasons as the offensive coordinator at Fresno State. During his time at Fresno State, DeBoer helped lead the Bulldogs to three bowl appearances and two Mountain West Conference titles.
DeBoer is the first Washington coach to be named Pac-12 Coach of the Year since Don James won the award in 1991. He is also the first coach in school history to win the award in consecutive seasons.
The Associated Press Pac-12 Coach of the Year award is given annually to the coach who has done the most to help his team succeed during the regular season. DeBoer’s selection is a testament to his hard work and dedication to making Washington a successful program.
