As the 2026 season approaches, Baylor's head coach Dave Aranda is under considerable pressure, having likely exhausted his chances for another losing record. His return was somewhat unexpected after the resignation of the athletic director late last season, which raised questions about his future with the team.
Entering his seventh season, Aranda will lead a squad featuring a new quarterback, DJ Lagway, who comes from Florida. The team will also see several new receivers and a new defensive coordinator, Joe Klanderman, previously with Kansas State. Aranda's career record is currently 36 wins and 37 losses, with last year's disappointing finish of 5 wins and 7 losses, including a troubling three-game losing streak.
Since their successful 2021 season, which included a school-record 12 wins and a Big 12 championship, the Bears have struggled, posting a record of 22-28. Their only winning season during this span was in 2024, when they finished 8-5. Last season, the team allowed an average of 32.6 points per game while scoring 31.1, and they recorded 24 turnovers, the highest in the Power Four.
Despite the loss of leading rusher Bryson Washington to Auburn, the running back group remains strong, with Caden Knighten and Dawson Pendergrass expected to play key roles. However, the Bears face difficulties due to the 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 matchups against TCU on October 17 and No. 12 Texas Tech on November 21.