Baylor Sticks with Head Coach Dave Aranda After 3-9 Season: What’s Next for the Bears?

Baylor announces the decision to retain head coach Dave Aranda for the upcoming season.

BU athletic director Mack Rhoades confirmed to multiple outlets that Dave Aranda will continue as head coach of the Bears despite a challenging 2023 season.

After a successful 2021 season where Baylor went 12-2 and clinched the Big 12 championship, the team has struggled in the past two seasons. Baylor finished the 2022 season with a record of 6-7, ending with a four-game losing streak. The 2023 season was even more challenging, culminating in a 3-9 overall record, including nine consecutive losses against FBS competition at home.

The recent 34-31 loss to West Virginia exemplified the team’s struggles. Despite holding a late lead, Baylor missed a crucial field goal at the 1:14 mark, leading to a game-winning touchdown for WVU. This loss was part of a series of defeats, including a 42-31 home loss to Texas State, indicating a difficult season for the Bears.

Despite the downturn in performance, Dave Aranda will have the opportunity to lead the team through upcoming changes, as reported by ESPN’s Pete Thamel. Aranda, known for his defensive expertise, will aim to guide Baylor through the new-look Big 12 next season.

Source: Pete Thamel on Twitter

Overall, during his four seasons in Waco, Aranda holds a 23-24 (15-20 Big 12) record. The team will look to improve under his leadership in the upcoming season.