Former Baylor coach Arch Briles hired by new program

Baylor University will retain head coach Dave Aranda through the 2026 season despite a 5-6 record this year and a 36-36 overall record in his six seasons. Speculation about Aranda's future arose after a disappointing season, but the situation shifted following the resignation of athletic director Mack Rhoades, who stepped down for personal reasons amid an investigation of unspecified allegations against him. Aranda's position remains tenuous, as he has not matched the success of former coaches Art Briles and Matt Rhule.

In related news, former Baylor coach Art Briles has been hired by Eastern New Mexico, a Division II program. Briles, who previously led Baylor to notable success before his 2016 dismissal, has signed a three-year contract with a buyout exceeding $1 million. Following his tenure at Baylor, Briles coached in the Italian Football League and at the high school level, achieving a championship with the Guelfi Firenze in 2022. Prior to Baylor