Baylor head coach Dave Aranda is entering his seventh season with the Bears under significant pressure to avoid another losing record. Following a disappointing 5-7 season in 2025, which included a three-game losing streak, Aranda's future was uncertain until the unexpected resignation of the athletic director allowed him to continue.
Aranda's overall record stands at 36-37, and the Bears have struggled since their remarkable 12-win season in 2021, which included a Big 12 title and a Sugar Bowl victory. Since then, Baylor has a record of 22-28, with only one winning season in 2024.
This season, the Bears will feature a new quarterback, DJ Lagway, who transferred from Florida. Lagway brings experience, having started 19 games in the last two years, throwing for over 4,000 yards. However, Baylor's offense has lost its top five receivers from last year, creating concerns about the team's receiving corps. Six new receivers have joined the roster, including transfers Dre’lon Miller and Gavin Freeman.
Defensively, Aranda has appointed Joe Klanderman as the new defensive coordinator, taking over play-calling responsibilities. Last season, the Bears allowed an average of 32.6 points per game while scoring 31.1, alongside a high number of turnovers.
Despite losing leading rusher Bryson Washington to Auburn, Baylor's running back group remains deep, featuring players like Caden Knighten and Dawson Pendergrass, who is returning from injury. The Bears' schedule includes significant matchups, starting with Auburn on September 5, followed by games against TCU and No. 12 Texas Tech later in the season.
