Aranda joined the Badgers in 2013 as defensive coordinator and inside linebackers coach, following former Gary Andersen from Utah State. He reportedly was offered a chance to go with Andersen to Oregon State a year ago, but elected to stay in Madison as a part of new coach Paul Chryst’s staff.

Under the native of Redlands, California, the Badgers allowed just 13.7 points per game in 2015. That was the top mark in the Football Bowl Subdivision until Alabama moved ahead of UW at 13.4 points per game allowed after shutting out Michigan State in the Cotton Bowl on Thursday. UW will reclaim the No. 1 spot if the Crimson Tide give up 19 points or more to Clemson in the College Football Playoff championship game on Jan. 11.

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The Badgers also finished in the top five in the nation in total defense, rushing yards allowed, and passing efficiency defense.

Since Aranda’s arrival, UW has been in the top seven nationally in total defense every year and has never been outside of the top 25 in any major defensive category.

Over Aranda’s three-year tenure, the Badgers lead the nation in total defense, ranking third in passing yards allowed and fourth in rushing yards allowed, and are second to Alabama in scoring defense.