The best college football defenses of 2016

Michigan has remained an elite defense after adding defensive coordinator Don Brown during the offseason. The Wolverines average only 11.6 points allowed per game, and defensive back Jabrill Peppers is a legitimate Heisman candidate.

Florida's reputation as an elite defense has only been strengthened this season, averaging 11.7 points allowed per game. The Gators' passing defense has given up the least yards in the country.

The Wisconsin defense continues to be the team's identity, averaging only 14.6 points allowed despite a brutal schedule. 

Nick Saban's defense has allowed only 14.9 points per game. The Tide leads college football by a wide margin in rushing defense, allowing only 70.1 yards per game.

Despite firing Les Miles, the Tigers have shown a great defense. LSU has allowed only 15 points per game and only 104.1 rushing yards per game.

The Buckeyes have allowed 15.1 points per game. They rank ninth in pass defense, allowing only 171.1 passing yards per game.

The Huskies have stepped up on both sides of the ball this season. They're averaging only 15.8 points allowed and lead college football with 12 fumble recoveries.

The toughness of Gus Malzahn's defense has returned this season, allowing only 16 points per game. The Tigers have been able to hold teams despite ranking only 31st in total defense by yards.

Army's defense has been terrific this season, allowing only 16.5 points per game. The Black Knights rank tied for eighth with 12 interceptions.

Running back Donnel Pumphrey leads the offense and has helped the Aztecs' defense stay off the field. San Diego State averages only 17 points allowed.

Defensive coordinator Brent Venables leads the Tigers, who have averaged only 17.6 points per game this season despite some big losses to the roster after last season.

The Mountaineers have held their own in some tough games and are averaging only 17.8 points allowed per game.

Colorado is having quite the turnaround this season, and the defense is a big reason. The Buffaloes have averaged only 18.1 points allowed and rank 14th in passing defense.

Wake Forest's defense has kept it in games this season, averaging only 18.3 points allowed. The team has started the year 5-3.

Nebraska has had a nice rebound season. The defense has allowed only 18.4 points per game.

Allowing 18.9 points per game, the Hawkeyes have held three opponents under 10 points this season.

Miami has allowed just under 19 points per game. Teams are putting up only 203.1 passing yards per game.

Stanford is struggling this season, but the defense has still played well. The Cardinal averages 19 points allowed per game and is tied for seventh with 28 sacks.

The Broncos have shined on both offense and defense this season. Defensively, they have allowed only 19.3 points per game.

Baylor isn't known for its defense, but the Bears have played well this season, averaging only 19.7 points per game. The defense has 16 takeaways.

The Aggies have allowed some big yardage totals but still average less than 20 points allowed per game. The team has 25 sacks, led by top NFL prospect Myles Garrett.

Troy averages 19.9 points allowed per game. The only blemish on the team's résumé is a 30-24 loss at Clemson in Week 2.

The Hokies have remained solid on defense, allowing only 20.1 points per game, and rank 18th in rushing defense.

West Virginia has allowed 20.6 points per game despite ranking 52nd in yards allowed.

Defensive-minded head coach Will Muschamp has had an impact on South Carolina's defense, which average 21.3 points per game. The Gamecocks have had trouble stopping the run but allow only 181 passing yards per game, 16th best in college football.