Baylor Football: Four Weeks In, What's The Verdict?

After four weeks of the 2026 season, Baylor's football team is demonstrating both notable strengths and areas needing improvement. While the Bears have secured three consecutive wins, their overall performance suggests they are still developing as a cohesive unit.

The offensive line, significantly overhauled in the offseason and plagued by injuries, has struggled. Its inexperience leads to quick pocket collapses, impeding the effectiveness of running back Dawson Pendergrass and quarterback Lagway, despite their individual talents.

Conversely, Baylor's special teams have been a standout unit. Punter Palmer Williams is averaging over 50 yards, and kicker Rhett Armstrong recently tied a stadium record with a 54-yard field goal. This unit has been a reliable asset in recent games.

Discipline remains a concern, with penalties being an issue both at home and potentially worse on the road. Coach Aranda emphasizes accountability in practice to address this.

Defensively, the team has shown remarkable progress. The unit has improved significantly in sacks and yards allowed per game compared to the 2025 season, indicating a successful rebuild under new coordination.