Baylor head coach Dave Aranda is gearing up for the 2026 season amid considerable pressure to avoid another losing record. His return follows the resignation of the school's athletic director, which raised uncertainties about his position within the program.
Entering his seventh season, Aranda will implement changes, including a new quarterback, DJ Lagway, who comes from Florida, and a new defensive coordinator, Joe Klanderman, previously of Kansas State. Aranda's overall coaching record stands at 36-37, with last year's performance resulting in a disappointing 5-7 finish, including a three-game losing streak.
The Bears have struggled since their successful 2021 season, which saw them achieve a school-record 12 wins and a Big 12 championship. Since then, their record has been 22-28, with their only winning season occurring in 2024. Last year, the team allowed an average of 32.6 points per game while scoring 31.1, and they recorded the most turnovers in the Power Four with 24.
Despite losing leading rusher Bryson Washington to Auburn, Baylor's running back group remains promising, featuring Caden Knighten and Dawson Pendergrass. However, the team faces challenges with inexperience at receiver, having lost their top five from last season. The season opener against Auburn in Atlanta is set for September 5, with additional key matchups against TCU and No. 12 Texas Tech later in the season.
