Baylor football has fired head coach Dave Aranda following a heartbreaking 25-24 loss to Kansas, bringing an end to his tenure in Waco after more than six seasons. The decision was announced on Sunday, October 25, 2026, as the Bears prepare to move forward under defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman, who will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
The coaching change comes after Baylor fell to 4-3 overall and 2-2 in Big 12 Conference play. Despite a promising start to the 2026 campaign, the latest defeat proved to be a turning point for the program as its leadership decided that a change was necessary.
Dave Aranda Fired After Baylor’s Defeat to Kansas
The news that Dave Aranda was fired followed Baylor’s narrow loss to Kansas on Saturday. The Jayhawks secured a 25-24 victory, earning their first win over Baylor since 2007 and snapping a 14-game losing streak against the Bears.
Kansas delivered the decisive moment late in the game when Blake Herold blocked a field-goal attempt in the final minute. The play preserved the Jayhawks’ one-point advantage and handed Baylor a damaging defeat in conference competition.
For Baylor football, the loss was particularly disappointing because the team had an opportunity to improve its position in the Big 12 standings. Instead, the result intensified questions surrounding the program’s direction and ultimately led to Aranda’s dismissal.
The decision reflects the pressure on college football programs to maintain consistent results, particularly when expectations remain high following previous seasons of success.
Dave Aranda’s Record at Baylor Football
Dave Aranda arrived at Baylor with a reputation as a respected defensive coach. During his time in Waco, he experienced both significant achievements and difficult stretches as the Bears attempted to establish themselves among the Big 12’s competitive programs.
Aranda finished his Baylor tenure with a 40-40 overall record. His most successful season came in 2021, when he guided the Bears to a 12-2 record and one of the strongest campaigns of his coaching career.
That season provided considerable optimism for Baylor supporters and strengthened Aranda’s standing within college football. However, the program struggled to maintain the same level of consistency in subsequent years.
Baylor failed to qualify for a bowl game in two of Aranda’s final three seasons, adding to concerns about the team’s progress. Although his earlier accomplishments remained an important part of his legacy, the program’s recent results created growing pressure for change.
Aranda’s departure closes a significant chapter in Baylor football history, leaving the university searching for a leader who can restore consistency and compete for major honors in the Big 12.
Joe Klanderman Named Baylor’s Interim Head Coach
Following Aranda’s dismissal, Baylor promoted defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman to interim head coach for the remainder of the 2026 season.
Klanderman now faces the challenge of stabilizing the program while preparing the Bears for their remaining games. His immediate responsibilities will include maintaining the team’s competitiveness, supporting players through the coaching transition and helping Baylor finish the season strongly.
As the defensive coordinator, Klanderman already has experience working within the program’s football structure. That familiarity could provide some continuity during a difficult period, although taking charge as interim head coach will bring additional responsibilities.
Baylor has not established through the supplied information whether Klanderman will receive consideration for the permanent position. His performance during the remainder of the season could nevertheless influence discussions about the program’s future leadership.
The Bears will need to respond quickly if they hope to regain momentum after the Kansas defeat.
Who Could Replace Dave Aranda at Baylor?
With Dave Aranda gone, attention is turning toward potential candidates for Baylor’s permanent head coaching position. Several names have emerged as possibilities in early coaching discussions, although the university has not confirmed a final shortlist or announced a permanent appointment.
Jason Eck
New Mexico head coach Jason Eck is one potential candidate. He led the Lobos to a 9-4 record in his first season in charge in 2025, building his reputation as a rising coaching talent.
His previous work at Idaho and his success at New Mexico could make him an intriguing option for a program seeking renewed momentum.
Glenn Thomas
Nebraska co-offensive coordinator Glenn Thomas also has a connection to Baylor. He previously served as an offensive coordinator on Matt Rhule’s staff from 2017 through 2019.
That familiarity with the university could make Thomas an interesting name if Baylor prioritizes an offensive-minded coach with previous experience in Waco.
Slade Nagle
Houston offensive coordinator Slade Nagle is another possible candidate. Houston’s offense has reportedly averaged 36 points per game during the 2026 season, giving Nagle a strong offensive résumé to present in any future head coaching discussions.
Baylor could consider whether his offensive approach would help the Bears become more productive and consistent.
Shiel Wood
Texas Tech defensive coordinator Shiel Wood could attract attention because of his work with a highly effective defense. His experience building a strong defensive unit could appeal to Baylor as the program evaluates its next direction.
Jeff Traylor
UTSA head coach Jeff Traylor is another name to watch. His reported 58-27 record with the Roadrunners demonstrates sustained success, and he has previously been linked to opportunities at larger programs.
These coaches represent potential options rather than confirmed candidates. Baylor’s eventual decision will depend on its priorities, available candidates and the leadership qualities the university wants in its next head coach.
What Dave Aranda’s Departure Means for Baylor Football
The firing of Dave Aranda represents a major turning point for Baylor football. The Bears must now navigate the remainder of the season while university officials evaluate the program’s long-term direction.
The immediate focus will be on how the players respond to the coaching change and whether Joe Klanderman can help the team improve its performances. With Baylor sitting at 4-3 overall and 2-2 in conference play, there is still an opportunity to finish the season on a positive note.
At the same time, the search for a permanent head coach will be an important storyline. Baylor will likely want a leader capable of developing players, recruiting effectively and producing consistent results in the Big 12.
Aranda’s successful 2021 season demonstrated the program’s potential, but maintaining that level of performance proved difficult in the years that followed. The next coach will face the challenge of turning that potential into sustained success.
Dave Aranda Fired: What’s Next for Baylor?
Dave Aranda‘s dismissal ends his tenure at Baylor after more than six seasons and a 40-40 record. The defeat against Kansas, sealed by Blake Herold’s late field-goal block, proved to be the final game before the university made its coaching change.
Joe Klanderman will lead the Bears as interim head coach for the rest of the 2026 season, while Baylor evaluates its options for a permanent replacement.
For fans searching for updates on Dave Aranda, Baylor football, the coaching vacancy and Joe Klanderman, the coming weeks will be crucial. The program’s performances under its interim leadership and the university’s eventual coaching decision will shape the next chapter of Baylor football.
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