Baylor head coach Dave Aranda is gearing up for the 2026 season, facing considerable pressure as he cannot afford another losing record. His return comes after the resignation of the school's athletic director late last season, raising questions about his future with the team.
As Aranda enters his seventh season, he will be working with DJ Lagway, a new quarterback who has transferred from Florida. The Bears also welcome several new receivers and a new defensive coordinator, Joe Klanderman, who previously served at Kansas State.
Aranda's overall coaching record is currently at 36 wins and 37 losses, following a disappointing 5-7 finish last year, during which the team lost five of its last six games, including a three-game losing streak.
Since a successful 2021 season that saw the team achieve a school-record 12 victories and win a Big 12 championship, Baylor has struggled, posting a record of 22-28. Their only winning season since then was in 2024, when they finished 8-5.
Last season, the Bears allowed an average of 32.6 points per game while scoring 31.1, and they had 24 turnovers, the highest in the Power Four.
Despite the loss of leading rusher Bryson Washington to Auburn, the running back group still has depth and talent. Caden Knighten, who rushed for 469 yards last season, and Dawson Pendergrass, returning from injury, are expected to play significant roles. Pendergrass had 671 yards and six touchdowns in 2024.
