Baylor Retains Dave Aranda Amid Coaching Controversy

Baylor football will maintain continuity at the head coaching position as Dave Aranda remains at the helm, following the resignation of athletic director Mack Rhoades. Aranda, who has compiled a 36-35 record over six seasons, faced growing pressure from fans amid inconsistent results, but the university’s leadership opted for stability as it begins its search for a new athletic director.

University president Linda A. Livingstone released a statement affirming Aranda’s retention, emphasizing the process involved “prayerful consideration” and a “deep commitment to our Christian mission and values.” The university acknowledged that the decision would generate strong opinions but highlighted the expectation for “excellence, accountability and competitiveness at the highest level.”

Since taking over the program, Aranda has experienced a mix of highs and lows. After a standout 12-2 campaign in 2021, including a Big 12 championship and a Sugar Bowl victory, Baylor has struggled to maintain consistent success, posting a 22-26 record in the following seasons and only two winning campaigns since his breakthrough year.

This season, Baylor sits at 5-5 with matchups remaining against Arizona and Houston. With bowl eligibility on the line, the program’s immediate focus is on finishing strong while transitioning to a new athletic director.

1. Historical Context and Performance

Dave Aranda arrived in Waco with a reputation as one of college football’s top defensive minds. After leading Baylor to a 12-2 record and capturing the Big 12 crown in 2021, expectations were high for continued success. Since that peak season, however, the Bears have struggled to replicate those results, compiling a 22-26 record overall and a 15-19 mark in conference play. Baylor has managed just two winning seasons in the last five years, leaving some fans frustrated with the lack of consistent progress. The 2025 campaign has been particularly challenging. In six of its 10 games, Baylor has allowed 34 or more points, including a 55-28 loss to Utah at home, exposing ongoing defensive struggles despite Aranda’s background as a defensive coordinator. While the team has shown flashes of potential, inconsistencies on both sides of the ball have prevented Baylor from sustaining momentum, fueling debate over Aranda’s future despite his prior success.

2. Leadership and University Perspective

Baylor’s decision to retain Aranda stems in part from a desire for stability as the university searches for a new athletic director. Leadership officials cited the importance of continuity and avoiding a costly buyout that could divert resources from program development. President Livingstone’s statement stressed the process involved candid conversations and careful evaluation, framing the decision as part of a broader commitment to the university’s mission and values. While acknowledging fan frustration, the university emphasized its expectation for high-level competitiveness and accountability moving forward. The university also highlighted that this decision allows Aranda to continue building the program while aligning with Baylor’s strategic priorities, including recruiting and player development. Maintaining the head coach provides continuity in the locker room and the coaching staff as the search for a new AD unfolds. The administration’s stance suggests that Baylor is willing to invest in long-term growth rather than make a reactionary move, signaling confidence in Aranda’s ability to lead despite recent setbacks.

3. Season Outlook and Key Games

Baylor enters the final two games of the season with bowl eligibility hanging in the balance. A win against Arizona on the road or Houston at home is necessary for the Bears to achieve a winning record and secure postseason play. Saturday’s matchup against the Wildcats is particularly pivotal, with kickoff scheduled for 11 a.m. CT. The outcome will heavily influence both the team’s immediate morale and broader evaluation of Aranda’s performance this season. Despite defensive struggles, the Bears have opportunities to rally behind key offensive contributors and capitalize on matchups against conference opponents. Success in these final contests would provide a positive note heading into the offseason and offer momentum for the next AD to build upon. How Baylor closes out the 2025 campaign will likely shape the conversation around Aranda’s tenure in the near term, even as the university has publicly committed to his leadership. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the team can finish strong under his guidance.