Overview
- Baylor announced on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026, that it had dismissed Dave Aranda and elevated defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman to interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
- Aranda finishes his tenure at Baylor 40-40 over seven seasons, highlighted by a 12-2 Big 12 title and Sugar Bowl win in 2021 but followed by uneven results and multiple losing campaigns.
- Multiple outlets report the university will owe Aranda roughly $12 million under his 2022 extension, a figure described as a reported buyout and not yet confirmed by the school.
- The Bears face a short week before Friday’s road game at UCF and must win additional games across their remaining five contests to reach bowl eligibility.
- Coverage already lists several external candidates with Texas or Big 12 ties and frames the firing as an early start to the 2027 coaching carousel that could reshape Baylor’s recruiting and finances.