9. Dabo Swinney
William Christopher “Dabo” Swinney has made his way into the spotlight over the last few seasons. The Clemson head coach is now a household name in college football and for good reason. Swinney’s Tiger teams have now made three consecutive College Football Playoff appearances, heading to national title games over the last two, with this year’s results pending. The Tigers lost a nail-biter to Alabama two seasons ago, but got revenge on the Tide with a last-minute touchdown to claim the national championship.
During his 10 years as head coach, Swinney has produced dozens of NFL talents and taken Clemson to new heights. He’s already the second-winningest coach in school history and if his demeanor is any indication, the 48-year-old has no plan to leave Clemson anytime soon. But throughout the entire process, Swinney has become a fan favorite. He’s loved by so many around the country for his passion, enthusiasm and upbeat personality.
Swinney’s a real humble guy, a player’s coach. He produces great athletes and more importantly great young men. He’s also known for throwing probably the biggest pizza party in college football history after his Tigers made the CFP. Swinney’s now made that a tradition at Clemson for his players, each year they make the College Football Playoff.
So, who wouldn’t love a good pizza break in the middle of building a gingerbread house? Swinney is similar to the really cool family member who vetoes anything and everything one set of parents are against. He’s really cool, but at the same time, not as lenient everybody thinks he is. Swinney’s pizza parties and personality would make for one heck of a time during the holiday season. On another note, I bet he wears some pretty funky — but awesome — Christmas sweaters.