Diaco happy to be at Notre Dame

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SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Bob Diaco believes several coaching jobs are available but insists hes not involved in the conversation for any of them.

Notre Dames assistant head coachdefensive coordinator said in a media session on Monday afternoon he isnt in direct contact with any schools about coaching vacancies -- Wisconsin included.

Media reports have linked Diaco, 39, to interviews for openings at Temple, Cal and Boston College, where he reportedly was a finalist.

But Diaco, who recently received the Broyles Award for being the nations top assistant coach, said hes happy to be part of Brian Kellys staff and is focused on the teams Jan. 7 matchup against Alabama in the BCS Championship Game in Miami.

I really believe I have the best assistant coaching job in America, Diaco said. I love who I work for. I love where I work. I dont want to change who I work for and I dont want to change where I work.The commitment to the players and the daily process, and the focus on that, now shifts to Alabama. Because its already in our DNA to work that way, that just doesnt go away. You still stay focused.

Were focused on our preparation for Alabama and the national championship game. And I feel like I love the job that I have.

Diacos defense ranks as the best in the nation in a number of categories.

Notre Dame heads into its 13th game having yielded just 10.3 points per game, which is first among FBS schools. The Irish also lead the nation in red-zone touchdowns allowed percentage, points allowed per red zone trip, fewest rushing touchdowns, total red-zone TDs allowed, and so on.

He attributes it to talented, intelligent players who are dedicated and focused and a cut above the rest. Diaco also believes the dynamic between he and Kelly, who previously hired him at Cincinnati and Central Michigan, is a key component.

Its Batman-Robin, Diaco said. Obviously, hes Batman. Its the best. I know what hes thinking before hes thinking it. Im on it. He doesnt have to come talk to me. He does, and he can, and he knows Im not going to be sensitive about it.

Diaco is serving in his first season as Kellys assistant head coach. He won the Broyles Award this season and was nominated in 2011. Earlier this month, Kelly said he wasnt surprised when he heard news Diaco is being courted --- at the time it was Boston College --- because of his coaching ability.

Hes the finest defensive coordinator in the country, Kelly said. Bob is a bright football coach. We have conversations about it. All I could tell you is that it doesnt surprise me that hes a part of it.

Diaco hasnt denied it, either. The attention, he admits, is flattering. But it wont be a distraction when it comes to Notre Dames upcoming title game.

Its an honor to be in the conversation, Diaco said. Im very proud of that and Im honored by it. So, I dont hide or run from it either, but it hasnt been a problem to manage any of that.

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