Baylor's new athletic director Doug McNamee has clarified the expectations for head football coach Dave Aranda as he enters his seventh season. While McNamee did not specify a win total that Aranda must achieve to retain his position beyond the 2026 season, he emphasized the importance of restoring momentum and garnering broader support for the program.
In remarks shared by CBS Sports writer Shehan Jeyarajah, McNamee stated, "Everybody wants to say, well, what’s the magic number? I genuinely am not playing coy when I would say it’s not about the numbers. It’s the momentum; it’s the feel, and it’s the vibe around the program."
This statement underscores that the evaluation will focus more on the overall direction and energy of the program rather than just wins and losses.
McNamee took over the athletic department in December, following a period of administrative transition. Although Baylor had already confirmed Aranda's return, McNamee's assessment marks his first full season to evaluate the coach's performance.
He highlighted the need for greater commitment from fans and supporters, urging them to engage more actively, whether by attending games or providing financial support, particularly in the context of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives.
Aranda, who has a record of 36-37 at Baylor, faces pressure after a disappointing 2025 season where the Bears finished 5-7 and missed a bowl game. McNamee noted that the program must demonstrate a clear trajectory to justify continued investment and support.
