The Dino Babers era at Syracuse has been a roller coaster of emotions. First, the upset against Virginia Tech. Then the unforgettable win over #2 Clemson. Then a 10-win season coupled with a trip to the Camping World Bowl. Then one of the most disappointing seasons in program history? To be fair, there have been more good times than bad under Babers. The program is in a much better spot than it was when the former Bowling Green skipper signed the dotted line.
Recruiting is still under the microscope and it probably always will be. Fans will never understand how there wasn’t a spike in recruiting after the Orange beat the Tigers in 2017. Fans wake up every day hoping SU can reel in a four-star recruit (OK, probably not. You get the point). As we know, ratings aren’t everything. Let’s take a look at some of the best players to buy into the coach that has brought new energy to a historic program.
Tommy DeVito: 2017 four-star QB
Undeniably the biggest get for Babers since he took the job. DeVito had offers from Maryland, Boston College and Wake Forest. He was receiving interest from SEC schools like Mississippi State. Let’s be honest: regardless of how DeVito performs in the future, his commitment to Syracuse was a big deal. He was one of the first guys to buy into Babers. That’s big for the program, especially considering DeVito had other power five options. If DeVito comes back strong next year, he could put the Orange back on the map and influence a young signal caller to sign with Syracuse. This program needs consistency in the worst way. Luckily for them, their quarterback of the future is already in place.
Andre Cisco: 2018 three-star safety
Did anyone else see Mel Kiper’s 2021 big board that listed Cisco as the number two safety in the class? Yeah, I sure did. What a great find this was for the Orange. Cisco, originally from New York, is one of many Florida high school players to choose the Orange. Finding the “scraps” in the sunshine state has been a strength for Babers during his four-year run. There’s no doubt schools like Miami and Florida State are wishing they gave Cisco another look or two. If he continues to make plays next year, he’s a lock to be selected in either the first or second round. The NFL will always have room for a play-making safety. With 12 interceptions in 22 career games, Cisco has made it clear he has the ball skills needed to be a pro. Cisco’s skill has allowed the Orange to build their defense on talented defensive backs.
Trill Williams: 2018 four-star safety
Do I even need to write anything here? You know that wasn’t the first time he’s done that, right?
Yeah, Trill is the real deal. He came into his own last year and was rewarded with a 94-yard touchdown on the final play of the season. Not only was Williams a four-star recruit, but he was the third ranked safety in the state of New York (247 Sports). Dominating the state is going to be key for the ‘Cuse moving forward.
These three guys are dynamic. They’ve all shown star potential under Babers. Now, it’s up to the coaching staff to land guys like them.
