As the 2026 season approaches, Baylor head coach Dave Aranda finds himself under considerable pressure, particularly after last year's disappointing 5-7 record. His overall coaching record stands at 36-37, and the team has struggled since a successful 2021 season that saw them achieve a school-record 12 wins and a Big 12 championship.
Entering his seventh season, Aranda will be working with new quarterback DJ Lagway, who transferred from Florida, and a revamped roster that includes several new receivers and a new defensive coordinator, Joe Klanderman, previously of Kansas State. The Bears' performance has been concerning, with an average of 32.6 points allowed per game and a troubling 24 turnovers last season, the highest in the Power Four.
Despite the loss of leading rusher Bryson Washington to Auburn, Baylor's running back group remains strong, featuring Caden Knighten and Dawson Pendergrass, who missed last season due to injury. However, the team faces challenges at receiver, having lost their top five from last year, with six new receivers joining the roster.
Baylor's season opener is set against Auburn in Atlanta on September 5, followed by significant matchups against TCU and No. 12 Texas Tech later in the season. The team's strategies and player performances are still being finalized.
