Baylor University's head coach, Dave Aranda, is gearing up for the 2026 season amid significant pressure to improve his team's performance. Following a disappointing 5-7 record last year, Aranda's future became uncertain after the resignation of the school's athletic director late in the previous season.
As he embarks on his seventh season, Aranda will introduce new talent, including quarterback DJ Lagway, who transferred from Florida, and a new defensive coordinator, Joe Klanderman, previously of Kansas State. The Bears have struggled since their successful 2021 season, which saw them achieve a school-record 12 wins and a Big 12 championship, with a subsequent record of 22-28.
Despite losing leading rusher Bryson Washington to Auburn, Baylor's running back group remains robust, featuring Caden Knighten and Dawson Pendergrass, who returns from injury. However, the team faces challenges with inexperience at receiver, having lost their top five from last season. Six new receivers have joined the roster, including transfers Dre’lon Miller and Gavin Freeman.
Baylor's season opener is against Auburn in Atlanta on September 5, followed by crucial matchups against TCU and No. 12 Texas Tech later in the season. Details on team strategies and player performances are still forthcoming.
