Dan Simrell (born March 31, 1943) is an American former football player and coach. He is best known for his tenure as head coach of the University of Toledo Rockets football team from 1978 to 1981, compiling a record of 20–21–1. Simrell’s coaching career spans several levels of collegiate football, including positions as an assistant coach, offensive coordinator, and head coach at various institutions.
Early life and playing career
Born in Columbus, Ohio, Simrell attended Ohio State University, where he played as a quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes football team in the early 1960s. After graduating, he briefly pursued a professional playing career before transitioning to coaching.
Coaching career
-
Early positions (1960s–1970s) – Simrell began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Ohio State (1965). He subsequently held assistant coaching roles at the University of Toledo (1970–1971) and the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) (1972–1974), focusing on offensive positions.
-
University of Toledo (head coach, 1978–1981) – Hired as the 25th head coach of the Toledo Rockets, Simrell led the program through four seasons. His teams recorded a 20–21–1 overall record and participated in the 1979 Tangerine Bowl. Under his direction, the Rockets were noted for a balanced offensive approach and the development of several players who later entered the National Football League (NFL).
-
Subsequent roles – After leaving Toledo, Simrell served as offensive coordinator at the University of Cincinnati (1982–1983) and later at Southern Illinois University (1984–1989). He also held head coaching duties at the University of South Carolina Upstate (1992–1995) in the NCAA Division II ranks, where he guided the program to its first postseason appearance.
-
Later career and retirement – Simrell concluded his coaching career as a consultant and mentor for various collegiate programs, focusing on quarterback development and offensive strategy. He retired from active coaching in the early 2000s but remains involved in alumni events and football clinics.
Legacy and impact
Simrell is recognized for his contributions to Midwestern college football, particularly for his role in revitalizing the Toledo football program during the late 1970s. Former players and colleagues credit him with emphasizing discipline, academic achievement, and a pro‑style offensive system. His career reflects a common trajectory among mid‑20th‑century coaches who transitioned from player to multi‑level coaching roles across the United States.
Personal life
Dan Simrell resides in Ohio. He is married and has two children. Information about his post‑coaching activities is limited to occasional public appearances and involvement in community football programs.