After two difficult seasons that left him firmly on the hot seat, Baylor head coach Dave Aranda has orchestrated an impressive midseason turnaround in 2024, leading the Bears to four straight wins and bowl eligibility. And now, a school spokesman has confirmed that Aranda will indeed return to lead the program in 2025, putting to rest speculation about his future in Waco.
The Bears, sporting a new look and explosive offense under first-year coordinator Jake Spavital, have rebounded from a 2-4 start and 0-3 hole in Big 12 play to even their record at 6-4. The latest victory, a 49-35 shootout at West Virginia, marked Baylor’s first-ever win in Morgantown in seven tries.
Offensive Resurgence Fuels Baylor’s Revival
Aranda’s decision to replace former OC Jeff Grimes with Spavital, the former Texas State head coach, has paid immediate dividends. After ranking 101st nationally in scoring offense in 2023 at a paltry 23.1 points per game, the Bears have erupted for 35.1 points per contest this season, with the ground game leading the charge.
Breakout Star Bryson Washington Sparks Rushing Attack
Redshirt freshman running back Bryson Washington has emerged as one of the most electrifying playmakers in college football over the past two weeks. The dynamic newcomer joined rarefied Big 12 air against the Mountaineers, becoming just the fifth player in conference history to score four touchdowns in consecutive games after accomplishing the same feat versus TCU.
Bryson is one of those special players who can take over a game every time he touches the ball. His emergence has really energized our entire team and ignited our offense.
– A source close to the Baylor program
Return to Defensive Roots Steadies Bears
While the high-octane offense has garnered headlines, Aranda’s move to take over defensive play-calling duties from coordinator Matt Powledge has helped steady a unit that surrendered 30.1 points per game during last year’s 3-9 debacle. The head coach has leaned on his experience as LSU’s defensive coordinator on their 2019 national title team.
Defenders have noted improved communication and understanding of assignments since Aranda assumed a more hands-on role. The Bears have held three of their four victims during the current win streak under 30 points.
Hefty Buyout Likely Sealed Aranda’s Return
Even with the strong finish, Aranda’s status remained tenuous given the massive expectations at Baylor. However, sources indicated his buyout, approaching $17 million, made a change financially untenable, likely cementing his return for 2025.
Instead, the late-season surge has energized the fan base and restored hope that Aranda, who led the Bears to a Big 12 title and No. 5 final ranking in 2021, his second season, can recapture that magic. With Washington poised to terrorize defenses for years to come and a now battle-tested squad, Baylor faithful are dreaming big once again.
This adversity revealed Coach Aranda’s true character and ability to rally a team on the brink. With him at the helm and so much young talent, the future looks bright again in Waco. We’re excited to see this group continue to develop and contend in the Big 12.
– A longtime Baylor booster
The Bears will now await their bowl destination, a just reward for their refusal to quit on the 2024 season. And with Aranda locked in, they’ll aim much higher in 2025. The rest of the Big 12 has officially been put on notice.
