At 48, Baylor Bears Head Coach Dave Aranda is still building one of college football’s most revered legacies, not just via victories and championships, but also through the quiet, persistent leadership that has made him a beloved figure in Waco and across the country.
Aranda is noted for his calm attitude, analytical approach to the game, and high regard for the student-athletes he guides. In a sport defined by fiery personalities and big statements, Aranda’s calm and analytical temperament stands out. He does not have to raise his voice to get respect. Instead, he commands it with honesty, discipline, and a thorough understanding of what true leadership entails.
Since taking over at Baylor, Aranda has given stability, purpose, and excellence to the program, which has developed under his leadership. Most notably, in 2021, he led the Bears to a historic season that included a Big 12 title and a Sugar Bowl triumph. That campaign demonstrated to the college football world that Aranda’s techniques, based on preparation, humility, and belief, could propel a team to the pinnacle of success.
However, those who know Aranda best believe that his importance extends far beyond the football pitch. He is a mentor who sincerely cares about the development of his players as young men. He promotes character, academic work, and personal responsibility to assist his athletes succeed in life beyond sports. His holistic coaching approach reflects his view that football can help create future leaders.
Fans in Waco and beyond have come to respect his guarded demeanor and ability to connect deeply with his teammates. Aranda leads with empathy and meaning, whether he’s drawing complex defensive plans or delivering modest encouragement from the sidelines. He is frequently referred to as the “coach’s coach” – someone whose approach inspires not only players, but also fellow staff members, analysts, and colleagues around the country.
What distinguishes Aranda is his genuineness. In a world of dazzling headlines and incessant noise, he stays true to himself: thoughtful, disciplined, and genuinely moral. And as he progresses in coaching, his influence simply grows.
At 48, Dave Aranda is far from finished. His best coaching years may still be ahead of him, and the young lives he continues to shape demonstrate his influence. He reminds us that leadership does not necessarily shout; instead, it listens, teaches, and inspires.
As the 2025 season approaches, Baylor fans are proud to support a coach that exemplifies the best in college athletics. Dave Aranda is more than just a football mind; he is a leader whose heart, principles, and wisdom will influence the game for years to come.