Representing Syracuse football, the team hasn’t always gotten things right on the field. However, when assessing Syracuse’s history, some magical moments have been overseen by some highly influential coaches, with Fran Brown hoping to make some memories of his own.
Whether Brown can lead the team to glory in the future remains to be seen, but he can certainly lean on some former heroes for inspiration should he need it during this grueling season. After all, several coaches have left a significant legacy with the Orange, and their impact is still felt today. Of course, we’ve also witnessed some poor tenures for numerous reasons, but the good times generally outweigh the bad.
From mentoring top players like Jim Brown to leading the Orange to a spectacular unbeaten season, below we remember some of the finest Syracuse football coaches ever. Despite Fran Brown facing some tough questions recently, these legendary coaches have shown what can be done despite the various obstacles in their way.
Paul Pasqualoni
Under the guidance of Paul Pasqualoni from 1991 to 2004, Syracuse football experienced some iconic moments. Pasqualoni’s teams were responsible for three Big East titles, and also won several iconic games. The infectious leader’s best achievements for the team are probably the nine bowl games in 14 seasons. Overall, though, there were plenty of good times under Paul Pasqualoni, while some top players, such as Donovan McNabb and Marvin Harrison, came through the doors.
Dino Babers
Today’s fans may only remember Dino Babers and his various forgettable moments. Still, it’s fair to say that he was also responsible for some memorable achievements, including a 10-win season in 2018. While it eventually ended, Babers’ exciting offensive style was sometimes a joy to watch.
Dick MacPherson
Fans currently with fantasy drafts and NFL lines on their minds ahead of the new season, Dick MacPherson left SU for the pros. MacPherson led the Orange in 1987 to a magical unbeaten season, with a stunning record of 11–0–1, only tainted by the “Dye Tie.” His disciplined units had a strong defense, with the revival in the 80s largely being credited to the remarkable work MacPherson did on the training field.
Doug Marrone
Doug Marrone’s time in charge of the team might not have lasted as long as some of the other names on the list, but his impact shouldn’t be underestimated. Marrone turned things around between 2009 and 2012, with the team’s professionalism returning and a more competitive unit helping Syracuse go 2–1 in bowl games. Simply put, Marrone got the team back on track.
Ben Schwartzwalder
(Image via https://x.com/Cuse)
Coaching top players like the aforementioned Jim Brown during his time with the team, Ben Schwartzwalder is the most successful coach in Syracuse history. Not only did Schwartzwalder coach some memorable players alongside Brown, such as Floyd Little and Larry Csonka, but the likable leader was also responsible for the team’s only national championship triumph in 1959. Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1982, while even having his trophy named after him, Ben Schwartzwalder is a true giant of the sport.
