Baylor is the first FBS job in Texas to open for the 2027 coaching carousel. It is only the third Power Four job to open following Maryland and N.C. State. Dave Aranda lasted over six years in Waco, compiling a 40-40 record that included a Big 12 championship in 2021 and four losing seasons. The Bears started the 2026 campaign at 5-1 before losing consecutive games as favorites.
The college landscape has changed dramatically since the Bears last played for a conference title. Still, the last three coaches at Baylor all played for a conference championship. There is still plenty of upside in Waco and the right head coach should be able to muster more financial support than Aranda could at the end of his tenure.
