Baylor’s football program finished in the lower half of its conference last season, a result that left the fan base yearning for a turnaround. The Bears entered the offseason with a clear set of priorities: a new quarterback, a refreshed receiving corps and a defense that can finally hold its own against the run.
Quarterback Uncertainty
At the center of the conversation is DJ Lagway, the five‑star recruit who left Florida for Waco. Though his arm talent is evident, Lagway’s stint with the Gators was marred by inconsistency, as he threw just two more touchdowns than interceptions in the previous campaign. The coaching staff believes his skill set can unlock a more dynamic offense, but the learning curve will be steep.
Receiving Corps in Transition
The departure of playmakers such as Josh Cameron and Michael Trigg has left a void at wide receiver. With those veterans now in the NFL, the Bears are counting on younger options to step up and provide the downfield threats that were missing a year ago.
Defensive Overhaul
A porous run defense that ranked near the bottom of the league last season has prompted a major redesign. New additions Travion Barnes and Hosea Wheeler are expected to inject speed and discipline, while the overall scheme under Dave Aranda is being reshaped to prioritize stopping the ground game.
Coaching Pressure
Dave Aranda, hired with a defensive mindset, knows that his job security hinges on addressing these three problem areas. A season that meets or exceeds expectations could cement his philosophy, while continued struggles may trigger a change at the top.