As the 2026 football season nears, Baylor University is witnessing a competitive race for the Star position on its defense. This competition has intensified with the arrival of several players from Kansas State, following the hiring of Joe Klanderman as the new defensive coordinator.
Key contenders Bo Onu and Daniel Cobbs are at the forefront of this battle. Onu, a safety standing 6 feet tall and weighing 210 pounds, participated in 11 games last season, where he recorded nine tackles. Klanderman has noted significant improvements in Onu's performance, expressing enthusiasm for his development. Cobbs, who has worked with Klanderman previously, brings experience with 415 total snaps from last season.
Klanderman remarked on the close nature of the competition, stating, "That's a really good race right now," and showed confidence in both players' abilities to excel in critical moments. Regardless of who secures the starting role, Klanderman plans to utilize both players throughout the season, emphasizing the value of keeping them fresh by rotating them.
As Baylor prepares for its upcoming matchup against Auburn, the contest for the Star position continues to be a focal point for the team's defensive strategy.
