Baylor just hit the reset button, dismissing head coach Dave Aranda on Sunday. This move spells the end of a seven-year partnership with the tactician. Athletic director Doug McNamee was blunt, stating, “While this is a difficult moment, we believe a change in leadership is necessary at this time for our program.”
The Aranda Era: What Went Wrong?
Aranda, 50, finished his tenure in Waco with a flat 40-40 record. Things actually kicked off pretty promising. Remember that 12-2 record in 2021? That was the high point. But then, it just stalled. The Bears couldn’t even qualify for a bowl game in two of Aranda’s final three seasons. You can feel the frustration from McNamee’s statement, right? They were thankful, sure, but the results just weren’t cutting it anymore.
The Hunt Begins: Who’s on Baylor’s Radar?
Now, the real fun begins: who does Baylor try to poach? The list of potential candidates is already getting buzz. You’ve got guys like **Jason Eck**, who’s leading New Mexico, at 49, to a 9-4 record in his first year back in 2025. This Wisconsin native is one of those rising stars, seemingly destined for bigger things. He’s had success with the Lobos and Idaho, so he might be ready for an outfit with more resources.
Then there’s some serious offensive firepower being eyed. **Glenn Thomas**, Nebraska’s co-offensive coordinator, is an Eastland, Texas native with Baylor history, having been an OC on Matt Rhule’s staff from 2017 to 2019. He followed Rhule to Lincoln and helped bring that program back. His Cornhuskers attack has been high-octane, averaging upwards of 29 points per game over the past two years. Another offensive guru generating talk is **Slade Nagle**, Houston’s offensive coordinator. Nagle, 46, has spearheaded a “wondrous offense” there. Willie Fritz’s side is averaging a ridiculous 36 points per game in 2026, and Nagle’s system, which prioritizes balance and depth, is a primary reason why. Imagine bringing that kind of scoring punch to Waco.
Defensive Anchors and Rising Stars
But it’s not all about offense. Baylor could also look to lock down the other side of the ball. **Shiel Wood**, Texas Tech’s defensive coordinator, has turned the Red Raiders into one of the nation’s “stoutest defenses.” Under his watch, they gave up a little more than 11 points per game during their 2025 College Football Playoff run. This South Carolina native, previously on Houston’s staff, has teams that just “shut the door” on opponents. That kind of defensive dominance has to be appealing. And finally, don’t forget **Jeff Traylor** from UTSA. The source doesn’t give many details, but his name is in the mix, and that’s usually for a reason.
So, Baylor’s athletic director McNamee has his work cut out for him. They’re looking for someone to reignite the program after things went stale. Will they go for an offensive genius, a defensive stopper, or a rising head-coaching talent? The next few weeks are going to be wild as they try to make the move that defines their next era.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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