Baylor University is set to begin its football season with a crucial matchup against Auburn at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Saturday afternoon. This game is particularly significant for seventh-year head coach Dave Aranda, who is under pressure following three losing seasons in the past four years since the Bears won the Big 12 Championship in 2021.
The Bears will feature Florida transfer quarterback DJ Lagway, who is stepping in for Sawyer Robertson. Lagway, whose father played at Baylor from 1997 to 2001, will lead a revamped receiving corps. Additionally, first-year defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman is tasked with improving a defense that struggled last season, ranking among the lowest in the Big 12.
Baylor's defense will face a formidable challenge against Auburn's quarterback Byrum Brown, who transferred from the University of South Florida. Brown brings impressive statistics, having thrown for nearly 7,700 yards and 61 touchdowns, along with rushing for nearly 2,300 yards and 31 touchdowns during his time at USF.
Several of Brown's former receivers have also joined him at Auburn, adding to the challenge for Baylor's defense.
