Breaking News: Coach Dave Aranda to Miss 2025 Football Season
In a surprising announcement today, Baylor University revealed that head football coach Dave Aranda will miss the entire 2025 season due to personal reasons. The news sent shockwaves through the Baylor Bears’ football program, as Aranda has been integral in transforming the team into a competitive force in college football over the past several seasons.
Aranda, 47, who took over as head coach of Baylor in 2020, has overseen remarkable growth and development within the program. His leadership helped the Bears achieve a Big 12 Championship in 2021, and the team has consistently been in the mix for high-level bowl games. Aranda is known for his sharp defensive mind and his ability to develop players both on and off the field, qualities that have earned him praise from coaches, players, and analysts alike.
The reason for his unexpected absence in 2025 has yet to be fully disclosed. In a statement, Aranda expressed his gratitude for the support of the Baylor community but emphasized that taking a step back was necessary to focus on personal matters.
“I am deeply appreciative of the Baylor family and all the support they’ve shown me throughout my career here,” Aranda said in the statement. “However, after careful consideration, I’ve decided to take a break from coaching in 2025 to focus on some personal matters that require my full attention. I’m confident that the program is in a strong position to continue its success, and I look forward to returning when the time is right.”
Baylor athletic director Mack Rhoades also expressed his full support for Aranda during this time, acknowledging the importance of family and personal health in the coaching profession. “Dave has done an incredible job here at Baylor, and while we will certainly miss his presence on the sideline, we understand and respect his decision,” Rhoades stated. “We are committed to supporting him in any way we can as he focuses on his personal matters. Baylor football will continue to move forward, and we are confident that our coaching staff will carry on the program’s momentum.”
In light of Aranda’s absence, Baylor has announced that defensive coordinator Ron Roberts will serve as interim head coach for the 2025 season. Roberts, who has been with Aranda since his days at Louisiana-Lafayette, is well-regarded for his defensive expertise and is familiar with Baylor’s culture and roster. The team and fans will be hoping that Roberts can maintain the program’s high standards during what promises to be a transitional year.
While the news of Aranda’s absence comes as a shock to many, it is a reminder that even the most successful coaches are human and face challenges beyond the football field. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Bears handle this unexpected turn of events.
As for Aranda, his future with Baylor remains secure. The coach has made it clear that his absence is temporary, and he expects to return to the sidelines in 2026, once his personal matters are resolved. Until then, the Baylor Bears will enter the 2025 season with a new face at the helm, but with a continued commitment to the high standards Aranda set during his tenure.
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