The offseason so far for the Syracuse Orange has seen notable staffing changes for Fran Brown, and the program now has its new leader for its defense.
Syracuse is reportedly hiring Toledo defensive coordinator
Vince Kehres to serve in the same role for the Orange, according to ESPN”s Pete Thamel. Kehres will take over for Elijah Robinson, who appears set to take on the defensive coordinator role at LSU.
Kehres spent six seasons (2020-2025) with Toledo as its DX and linebackers coach. Prior to his time with the Rockets, Kehres served for over 20 years at Division III’ Mount Union Purple Raiders in multiple roles, including as the team’s head coach for seven years. He guided the Purple Raiders to two NCAA Division III Championships and three additional championship game nods.
In 2025, Toledo’s defense allowed just 12.2 points per game, good for first in the MAC. In six years, Toledo’s defense finished top-three in its conference five times and first twice. With Kehres as the DC, the Rockets went 47-25 overall and made it to four bowl games. Kehres and Toledo went 8-4 in 2025.
Kehres will look to revamp an Orange defense that gave up 34.9 points per game this season, which was worst in the ACC.
