UConn Fires Head Football Coach Bob Diaco
UConn dismissed Bob Diaco a day after Christmas. The Huskies will likely target an offensive-minded head coach to replace him.
UConn has dismissed Bob Diaco the day after Christmas. The Huskies will now likely target an offensive-minded head coach to jump start the program.
Bob Diaco is not having the best of holiday seasons.
The UConn head coach has been told that he will no longer be able to lead the program, as the Huskies announced on Monday morning that he has been relieved of his duties, effective January 2.
“I believe a new leader for our program and student-athletes is needed to build long-term success,” UConn AD David Benedict said in a release. “I am grateful to Coach Diaco and his staff for their hard work and the integrity with which they ran the program and certainly wish them future success.
“I know this may come as a surprise to our fans and supporters given the timing of this decision. However, it became apparent to me that a change in program direction is necessary at this time.”
Timing of the move will certainly raise eyebrows, as the dismissal comes at a time when the coaching carousel appeard closed barring an individual moving up to the NFL ranks.
Diaco went 11-26 at the school, including a 3-9 record this year, as UConn finished last in the FBS in scoring offense in 2016. No matter who the Huskies bring in to replace Diaco, an offensive-minded coach will likely be the top target. While they experienced a big dip defensively this season, the Huskies averaged less than 16.0 points per game during Diaco’s entire tenure.
Keep an eye on Penn State offensive coordinator Joe Moorhead, who may be able to reinvigorate the UConn offense. He was a big reason why Penn State claimed the Big Ten title this season, and is also very familiar with the Northeast.
The 2014 season was Diaco’s first with the Huskies following a four-year stint as the defensive coordinator at Notre Dame. After a 2-10 debut in Storrs, the Huskies finished the 2015 season at 6-7 with a loss in the St. Petersburg Bowl. However, the program took a big step back in 2016, winning just one game in AAC play.
