Baylor bears head coach Dave Aranda signs new contract with Duke after terminating deal with team concerning payment

In his tenure at Baylor, Aranda has achieved significant milestones, including leading the team to a Big 12 championship and a Sugar Bowl victory. The 2021 season was particularly notable, with the Bears finishing with a 12-2 record and securing their first Sugar Bowl title since 1957. Despite facing challenges in the subsequent seasons, Aranda’s leadership has been instrumental in maintaining the program’s competitiveness.​

Most recently, in November 2024, Aranda guided Baylor to bowl eligibility by achieving a 6-4 record, culminating in a 49-35 victory over West Virginia. This win secured the team’s spot in a bowl game, marking a positive turn after earlier struggles in the season.

Given this context, the notion of Aranda leaving Baylor for Duke is unfounded. There have been no official announcements or credible reports linking him to any position at Duke University. It’s important to rely on verified information from reputable sources when considering such significant developments in the world of college football coaching.

Dave Aranda’s Tenure at Baylor

Dave Aranda was appointed as Baylor’s head football coach in 2020, succeeding Matt Rhule. In his second season, he led the Bears to a remarkable 12-2 record, securing a Big 12 championship and a Sugar Bowl victory—the program’s first since 1957. This success earned him the AP Big 12 Coach of the Year honors

However, the subsequent seasons presented challenges. The Bears finished with a 6-7 record in 2022 and a 3-9 record in 2023, placing Aranda’s position under scrutiny. Despite these setbacks, he remained committed to revitalizing the program. In November 2024, Baylor achieved bowl eligibility with a 49-35 victory over West Virginia, marking a significant turnaround

Contractual Commitments

In February 2022, Baylor University announced a contract extension for Aranda through the 2029 season. While specific terms were not publicly disclosed, reports indicate that his buyout clause would have been nearly $17 million if Baylor had chosen to part ways after the 2024 season.

Clarifying the Duke University Allegations

The assertion that Aranda signed a new contract with Duke University after terminating his agreement with Baylor is unfounded. There have been no official announcements or credible reports linking him to any position at Duke. It’s essential to rely on verified information from reputable sources when considering such significant developments in the world of college football coaching.​

Looking Ahead

With Aranda’s leadership, Baylor has demonstrated resilience and potential for future success. The team’s ability to overcome early-season challenges in 2024 and secure a bowl game berth reflects a positive trajectory. As the 2025 season approaches, both fans and analysts will be keenly observing Baylor’s performance under Aranda’s continued guidance.​

Dave Aranda remains the head coach of the Baylor Bears, committed to the university through the 2029 season. There is no evidence to suggest any contractual changes involving Duke University. Baylor’s recent achievements and ongoing commitment to Aranda underscore the stability and direction of the football program.