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Robert Griffin III Signals Interest in Baylor Head-Coaching Vacancy
By Drooid · · How we work
The Coaching Vacancy After Dave Aranda’s Dismissal
Baylor University terminated head coach Dave Aranda after a second consecutive loss left the Bears 4-3. Aranda, who led the program since 2020, finished with a 40-40 record and a 12-2, No. 5 finish in the 2021 AP poll. Defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman will serve as interim head coach while the school conducts a search.
Griffin’s Public Declaration
Former Baylor quarterback and 2011 Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III told host Dan Patrick on “The Dan Patrick Show” that he would be “100 %” interested in the head-coaching position. He added that the university should aim for a program that makes its fans proud, not merely respectable.
Background on the Program and the Candidate
- Dave Aranda’s tenure: Hired in 2020, posted a 40-40 overall record, three bowl appearances, and a 12-2 season in 2021 that earned a Big 12 championship.
- Robert Griffin III’s résumé: Played at Baylor (2008-11), won the Heisman in 2011, was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, and retired after the 2020 NFL season. He has no prior coaching experience and currently works as a college-football analyst for Fox Sports.
Other Candidates Mentioned by Griffin
Griffin highlighted three external coaches he believes could be viable options:
- Spencer Danielson, head coach at Boise State.
- Jeff Traylor, head coach at UTSA.
- Lincoln Riley, USC head coach, whose potential move would depend on his reported $70 million buyout.
Why the Decision Matters
Baylor’s next hire will determine whether the program can return to national relevance in the competitive Big 12. Selecting a first-time head coach with no coaching background, such as Griffin, would be a high-risk move, while hiring an established offensive mind could provide continuity. The choice also influences recruiting appeal and financial commitments, given Aranda’s reported $12 million buyout.
Official Statements & Responses
- Griffin’s remarks on “The Dan Patrick Show” stressed the need for a leader familiar with Baylor’s winning culture.
- Athletic director Doug McNamee, who replaced Mack Rhoades last December, has not publicly confirmed any interview but is the primary point of contact for Griffin’s interest.
- Interim head coach Joe Klanderman will lead the Bears in the upcoming game against UCF while the search proceeds.
Verbatim Quotes
- “And if Baylor wants to get back to winning and have a university that isn't just respectable on the football field, but the fans can be proud of, they need people who know what it looks like to win at Baylor.” — Robert Griffin
- “I know (Riley's) got his experiences at Oklahoma and obviously, what's going on at USC right now,” — Robert Griffin
What’s Next
Baylor’s administration will continue its search during the remainder of the season, evaluating both internal and external candidates. The interim staff will guide the team in the next matchup, after which the university is expected to announce a shortlist of finalists.