Dino Babers is a distinguished American football coach, currently serving as the offensive coordinator for the University of Arizona. His coaching career began in 1984 as a graduate assistant at the University of Hawaii, where he laid the foundation for a successful trajectory in college football. Babers quickly advanced through various coaching roles, showcasing his expertise as a running backs and wide receivers coach at several institutions, including Purdue and UCLA, where he honed his skills in developing offensive strategies.
In 2012, Babers took the helm as head coach at Eastern Illinois University, where he made an immediate impact by leading the Panthers to consecutive playoff appearances. His innovative offensive schemes and ability to cultivate talent were exemplified by the development of quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, who later became a second-round NFL draft pick. Babers’ success at Eastern Illinois earned him a promotion to Bowling Green State University in 2014, where he guided the Falcons to a Mid-American Conference championship in 2015, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier coach.
In December 2015, Babers was appointed head coach at Syracuse University. Under his leadership, the Orange achieved a remarkable 10-win season in 2018, which led to a contract extension. His tenure at Syracuse was marked by a commitment to building a competitive program and fostering player development, resulting in two winning seasons during his eight years.
Following his time at Syracuse, Babers joined the University of Arizona as offensive coordinator in 2024, continuing to influence the game with his dynamic offensive philosophy. His extensive coaching experience and proven track record make him a valuable asset in the world of college football, inspiring both players and fellow coaches alike.