Baylor will open Big 12 Conference play against Colorado with starting quarterback DJ Lagway back in the lineup and five players listed as unavailable. The Bears and Buffaloes are both 2-1 entering the Sept. 26 game at McLane Stadium in Waco.
Lagway is set to make his first start since Sept. 5 after recovering from an ankle injury suffered in Baylor’s season opener. Coach Dave Aranda said earlier in the week that the team’s medical staff had cleared Lagway to return.
Nate Bennett will move back to the backup role after starting two games. During those starts, he completed 75% of his passes for 567 yards, six touchdowns and two interceptions. Bennett also ran for 15 yards and two scores.
Baylor wide receiver Jadon Porter and defensive back Devin Turner, both previously listed as probable, are expected to play. Defensive tackle Hosea Wheeler was initially considered questionable but was later cleared for action.
The Bears’ unavailable list includes safety Jacob Redding, cornerback Jamarion Richardson, defensive lineman Devonte Tezino, offensive lineman Cayden Tone and wide receiver Ashton Jones. Colorado has ruled out wide receiver Danny Scudero, cornerback Preston Ashley, linebacker Colby Johnson, defensive lineman Vili Taufatofua, offensive lineman Demetrius Hunter and tight end Charlie Williams. Offensive lineman Xavier Payne is listed as a game-time decision.
