Overview
- Baylor announced the firing of head coach Dave Aranda on Sunday after Saturday’s 25-24 loss to Kansas, ending his seven-season run with a 40-40 record.
- Defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman was elevated to interim head coach for the rest of the season and he has no prior head-coaching experience.
- Aranda’s tenure included a program peak in 2021 when Baylor went 12-2, won the Big 12 title and the Sugar Bowl but otherwise produced uneven results and multiple losing seasons.
- Multiple outlets report Aranda’s 2022 extension triggers a substantial buyout of about $12 million and Baylor has already begun vetting external candidates including Group of 5 and in-state options.
- With five regular-season games left and bowl eligibility still possible, Klanderman’s short-term performance will influence the search and it will also affect players, recruiting and donor expectations for the offseason.