Baylor head coach Dave Aranda is gearing up for the 2026 season amid considerable pressure, as he cannot afford another losing record. His return follows the resignation of the school's athletic director, which raised questions about his future with the program.
Entering his seventh season, Aranda will lead a team featuring a new quarterback, DJ Lagway, who transferred from Florida. He will also work with a new defensive coordinator, Joe Klanderman, previously from Kansas State. Aranda's overall record stands at 36-37, with a disappointing 5-7 finish last year, including a troubling three-game losing streak.
Since their successful 2021 season, which included a school-record 12 wins, the Bears have struggled, posting a 22-28 record. Last season, the team averaged 32.6 points allowed per game while scoring 31.1, and they recorded the highest number of turnovers in the Power Four at 24.
Despite losing leading rusher Bryson Washington to Auburn, the running back group remains strong with talents like Caden Knighten and Dawson Pendergrass, who missed last season due to injury.
Challenges remain, particularly at receiver, where the Bears lost their top five from last season. Six new receivers, including transfers Dre’lon Miller and Gavin Freeman, have joined the roster. Baylor's season opener against Auburn is set for September 5, followed by significant matchups against TCU and No. 12 Texas Tech later in the season.
