https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broyles_Award

"Every year, 1,500 assistant coaches representing all 117 Division One college football programs vote on their peers in the world of college football, and the five Broyles Award finalists are chosen by the tally of these ballots. Each head coach can nominate one assistant coach from his staff. All nominations are reviewed by a selection committee composed of some of college football's former head coaches. The five finalists meet in Little Rock, Arkansas, where each is presented with a 1,000 dollar check, as well as a set of golf clubs and personalized golf bag. The winner received 2,500 dollars, a watch, the Broyles Award Jacket custom-made by Tom James, as well as the trophy, valued at around 5,000 dollars."

Apparently more than just Bronco think he must be decent. Tidwell was talking him up the other day on BYUSN. I can't find anything supporting when the nominations actually come out, only the date of the award banquet (early December every year). It wouldn't surprise me to find out that the nominations take place at the beginning of the season. In which case, it wouldn't make it seem as crazy as some would like to believe that he showed up on the list. 2013 was a pretty good year for Howell. If the nomination was based on that season, it wouldn't be a shock to think Bronco may have picked him if reports are true that he may be the hardest worker on staff.