Leading the Panthers to an Ohio Valley Conference championship so far this season, Babers was named a finalist for the Football Championship Subdivision coach of the year.
Announced as one of the 21 candidates to receive the award, Babers was almost honored with it last year as he finished third in voting.
Guiding Eastern to an undefeated conference record and a national rank of number two, Baber's has put together a strong argument to hoist the trophy named after legendary coach Eddie Robinson.
EIU finishes its regular season play this Saturday at Tennesse-Martin, with the FCS awards banquet taking place on December 16.