Penn State assistant coach makes Kirk Herbstreit's list of top coaches in Week 1

Penn State defensive coordinator Brent Pry is off to a great start in 2021.

Pry’s defense held Wisconsin to just 10 points on Saturday, helping the Nittany Lions complete the upset over the Badgers in Madison.

On Tuesday, Pry was recognized by ESPN college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit for his unit’s performance in Week 1. He was one of seven coaches — and four coordinators — recognized by Herbstreit.

My top performing coaches from WEEK 1! 🏈

1. Dan Lanning, DC @GeorgiaFootball
2. Chip Kelly, @UCLAFootball
3. Will Healy, @CharlotteFTBL
4. Steve Sarkisian, @TexasFootball
5. Justin Hamilton, DC @HokiesFB
6. Brent Pry, DC @PennStateFball
7. Todd Orlando, DC @USC_FB pic.twitter.com/OBoXiRHZN1

— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) September 7, 2021

Penn State currently ranks second in the Big Ten in scoring defense, fifth in passing defense, second in yards per play allowed and fourth in opponent third down conversion. The Nittany Lions also forced three takeaways against Wisconsin last week, including two interceptions in the game’s final minutes.

Pry has been with the Nittany Lions since 2014. He started as the program’s co-defensive coordinator but has been James Franklin’s primary DC since 2016. Prior to joining Penn State, Pry coached for Franklin at Vanderbilt.

Penn State hosts Ball State in Week 2 before getting Auburn in a marquee matchup in Week 3.