Auburn may significantly raise the heat on Aranda’s job security in Week 1, as his Baylor Bears head to Atlanta for a rematch of last season’s 38-24 Tigers victory in Waco. The season opener at Mercedes-Benz Stadium could set the tone for Aranda’s future.
According to ESPN reporter Adam Rittenberg, Aranda’s position ranks among the most unstable in college football entering the year. His campaign to retain his role begins against Auburn and head coach Alex Golesh in what will be Golesh’s debut season with the Tigers.
Rittenberg highlighted significant concerns surrounding Baylor’s defense and Aranda’s need to impress new athletic director Doug McNamee. Former AD Mack Rhoades stepped down after more than nine years, and Aranda who holds a 22-28 record since guiding Baylor to a Big 12 title in 2021 may not have survived had Rhoades remained. Now, Aranda must reestablish Baylor as a legitimate contender in the Big 12 Conference.
Defensive struggles have compounded the issue. Over the past two seasons, Baylor has ranked 105th nationally in scoring defense, allowing 29.5 points per game. The Bears will look for stability from transfer quarterback DJ Lagway while navigating a schedule that opens with Auburn in Atlanta.
Oddsmakers currently favor Auburn by 7.5 points, reflecting skepticism about Baylor’s defense despite new coordinator Joe Klanderman taking over. Auburn strengthened its offense with the addition of transfer quarterback Byrum Brown and several of his former receiving targets from the USF Bulls.
Meanwhile, Lagway a transfer from the Florida Gators will face an Auburn defense still led by coordinator DJ Durkin, though the unit has lost multiple key contributors to the NFL and the transfer portal.
There are plenty of uncertainties heading into the opener. However, Golesh’s recent track record appears stronger than Aranda’s, a factor likely influencing betting markeand potentially major changes in Waco if things unravel early.
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