Overview
- President Linda A. Livingstone said the decision followed a comprehensive review and prioritizes stability, roster and recruiting protection, and financial stewardship.
- The move comes one day after athletic director Mack Rhoades resigned, with the next AD expected to evaluate the football program’s long-term direction.
- Aranda is 36-35 in six seasons with a 2021 Big 12 title and Sugar Bowl win, and he remains under contract through 2029.
- Baylor is 5-5 with games at Arizona and against Houston, needing one win to reach bowl eligibility.
- Livingstone cited avoiding significant buyout costs during a volatile coaching cycle, with local reporting placing Aranda’s potential buyout in the mid-to-high eight figures.