Dave Aranda and the Baylor Bears are making a bold move by investing heavily in their defense, signaling a new era under defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman. This offseason, Aranda revealed to SicEm365 that they've allocated more resources to the defense than ever before, marking a significant shift in strategy. Klanderman, who previously made his mark at Kansas State and North Dakota State, now takes the reins in Waco.
Aranda's decision to step back from his dual role as head coach and defensive coordinator has opened the door for this increased focus. "One of the biggest things I found freeing was not being both the head coach and DC," Aranda shared.
"This allowed us to spend more on defense than we ever have. Looking back, I realized we didn’t do enough before, especially on the line of scrimmage."
The Bears have been active in the transfer portal, bolstering their defensive line with talents like Hosea Wheeler from Indiana, Garrick Ponder from Southern Miss, and Jae’Lin Battle from Oklahoma. This recalibrated approach aims to address previous shortcomings, particularly in the trenches.
Aranda continued, "Last year, we spent a lot on our receiver room, maybe too much. Now, we’re investing in our defense, and it feels liberating to tell Joe, ‘We’re going to get you everything you need.’"
Here's a look at the new defensive faces:
Defensive Line:
- Zavion Hardy (South Carolina)
- Daemian Wimberly (UT San Antonio)
- Ryan Davis (Kansas State)
- Garrick Ponder (Southern Miss)
Linebackers:
- JJ Shelton (Arkansas)
- Kendrick Walker (Georgia State)
Secondary:
- Stilton McKelvey (New Mexico)
- Devon Jordan (Oklahoma)
- Austin Ausberry (LSU)
- Daniel Cobbs (Kansas State)
- Colby McCalister (Kansas State)
Aranda, who built his reputation with strong defenses at LSU, Wisconsin, and Utah State, is now channeling that expertise into Baylor's new defensive strategy. However, last season's struggles were evident, with the Bears finishing last in the Big 12 against the run and allowing 392.1 yards per game.
While the offense, led by quarterback Sawyer Robinson and Florida transfer DJ Lagway, showed promise, the defense lagged behind. Returning players like linebackers Kaleb Burns, Kyland Reed, and corner Levar Thornton Jr. are expected to lead the charge in turning things around.
With this renewed focus, Baylor is poised to strengthen its defensive identity and make a significant impact in the Big 12. The changes reflect a strategic pivot, one that could redefine the Bears' approach on the field.