Locked On Baylor - Daily Podcast on Baylor Bears Football & Basketball

Baylor Bears suffer a major setback as standout linebacker Keaton Thomas enters the transfer portal, leaving the defense without its captain for 2026. Can new connections in the portal bring top-tier talent like Austin Romaine to Waco, or will Baylor struggle to replace their leading tackler? Host Cam Stuart scrutinizes the impact on Dave Aranda’s program culture and questions whether Baylor can attract high-caliber defensive playmakers in a turbulent offseason.

On the hardwood, Cameron Carr’s meteoric rise transforms Scott Drew’s squad, with Carr emerging as a potential NBA lottery pick after being snubbed from preseason rankings. What unlocked Carr’s explosiveness, and how far can Baylor basketball go with his elite scoring? Key topics include roster shake-ups, transfer strategies, and the program’s evolving identity amid change. Is Baylor football building for the future—or heading into another round of frustration?

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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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College football chaos erupts as playoff snubs and transfer drama shake the Big 12. Is the SEC’s dominance slipping, and could Texas Tech crush Oregon’s College Football Playoff hopes? Drake Toll and Cam Stuart break down BYU, Utah, and Texas Tech’s playoff legitimacy, question whether the SEC is truly elite this season, and debate the flaws of the ESPN-driven postseason format.

The hosts tackle the heated debate around player loyalty and transfers, spotlighting Rocco Becht, Sam Levitt, and Josh Hoover. Should fans embrace or move on from stars as they bolt in the portal era? Plus, Texas Tech’s defense sets up a potential upset of Oregon, while coaching changes and fan reactions take center stage. Don’t miss hot takes on playoff expansion, power dynamics, and why the Big 12’s underdogs deserve their shot at glory.

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Gametime
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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Baylor Bears football faces a seismic shift as multiple offensive and defensive linemen, including D.J. Coleman and Phoenix Jackson, enter the transfer portal, signaling a complete overhaul of Dave Aranda’s roster strategy. Cam Stuart breaks down the exit trends, the urgent need for line reinforcements, and what these departures mean for Baylor’s competitiveness in the Big 12.

Quarterback controversy is heating up with the potential arrival of DJ Lagway and an impending battle between Edward Griffin and Walker White. Cam Stuart questions whether Baylor can fix its quarterback pipeline amid college football’s larger QB development crisis. Is quick-trigger player movement stunting future stars—and can the Bears capitalize, or will key prospects slip away again? Don’t miss this candid look at roster churn, strategy pivots, and the high-stakes future for Baylor football.

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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Utah’s Kyle Whittingham emerges as a likely candidate to take over at Michigan, setting off one of the most unexpected coaching carousel moves in recent college football history. Can Whittingham’s approach and legacy translate to success in Ann Arbor, and would his staff follow him or remain tied to Morgan Scalley? The crew breaks down the drama, and questions abound over Michigan’s future roster, leadership, and the impact on Big 12 dynamics.

BYU fans are fired up as Notre Dame is accused of dodging the Cougars in bowl matchups, sparking talk about underdog narratives and college football prestige. Deion Sanders’ transformative effect on Colorado—on and off the field—is spotlighted, alongside concerns about his longevity and succession plans with rising assistant Brennan Marion. Plus, the panel debates Texas high school football recruiting, scandals, and which coaches truly fit Michigan’s high-pressure program. Will Sanders build a lasting legacy in Boulder, or is another seismic shift on the horizon?

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Baylor Bears emerge as front-runners for superstar quarterback DJ Lagway despite fierce competition from LSU, Miami, and Clemson. Could this transfer portal coup save Dave Aranda’s job and reignite Baylor’s football program? Legacy ties and family interest put the Bears in pole position, with ESPN ranking Baylor as the most likely destination for Lagway. Cam Stuart explores how a high-profile quarterback could transform the team’s reputation and short-term outlook while weighing the urgent need to rebuild the offensive and defensive lines.

Kansas State standouts Ryan Davis and Donovan McIntosh hit the portal as Joe Klanderman brings his defensive expertise to Waco. Will Baylor capitalize on the Wildcats’ losses to bolster its pass rush and secondary? Plus, Scott Drew keeps the NBA pipeline alive—Cameron Carr and Tounde Yessoufou project as first-round picks even after a roster overhaul. Can Baylor basketball maintain its dominance in the age of constant turnover?

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Gametime
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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Baylor Bears shift the dynamic with Dave Aranda stepping solely into the head coach role—will freeing him from defensive play-calling spark a turnaround in Waco? Cam Stuart and Sydney Wicker break down Aranda’s new direction, spotlighting the arrival of Joe Klanderman as defensive coordinator and his disruptive defensive philosophy.

Key topics include Baylor’s pressing need for impact players in the transfer portal, particularly at defensive line and secondary, the challenges of navigating roster turnover, and how Aranda and Klanderman’s partnership could reshape Baylor’s on-field identity. The hosts also tackle SMU’s decision to remove Baylor from its schedule, debating the Mustangs’ place in the ACC versus the Big 12. Is SMU ducking the Bears, and should they be part of the Big 12’s future? Don’t miss this insightful look at a pivotal offseason for Baylor football.

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Aura Frames
For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code COLLEGE at checkout.
 

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Baylor Bears’ inability to develop NFL-caliber talent emerges as the most troubling aspect of Dave Aranda’s tenure—can new changes at defensive coordinator finally spark a turnaround? Cam Stuart unpacks Baylor’s shocking player development fails, highlighting missed opportunities with stars like Siaki Ika, Richard Reese, and Kyron Drones, and questions whether a single NFL draft pick under Aranda spells deeper program issues.

New defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman arrives from Kansas State with a proven record and a bold promise to revamp Baylor’s defense—will his fresh approach and potential to bring key players make the difference? Plus, the transfer portal heats up with five-star quarterback DJ Lagway, a Baylor legacy, now linked to the Bears. Could his addition rewrite Baylor’s narrative? Tune in for expert analysis on recruiting gaps, coaching dynamics, and what the future holds for Baylor football.

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Omaha Steaks
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Wayfair
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Aura Frames
For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code COLLEGE at checkout.
 

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Power conferences threaten to freeze out Notre Dame football—can the Fighting Irish survive without marquee matchups? Drake Toll and Cam Stuart debate the shifting balance of power in college football, questioning Notre Dame’s TV draw and legacy as schools consider canceling future games. They spotlight Brett Yormark and the Big 12’s role in challenging long-standing traditions, and ask if joining a conference is now non-negotiable for national brands.

On the coaching carousel, Kenny Dillingham’s potential jump from Arizona State to Michigan raises questions about loyalty versus legacy. The hosts break down the most “saddest” programs in the Big 12—Is Baylor headed toward disaster, or could Colorado or Kansas claim that title? Listener favorites like Michigan, BYU, and Utah all enter the debate, while the episode wraps with college football banter, Christmas spirit, and a playful look at what keeps certain fanbases up at night.

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Aura Frames
For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code COLLEGE at checkout.
 

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Baylor Bears shake up their defense with the hiring of Joe Clanderman from Kansas State—can his turnover-hungry scheme reignite Baylor football? Cam Stuart scrutinizes Klanderman’s track record, highlighting his knack for developing NFL-caliber defensive backs and producing top turnover margins. The episode asks whether Klanderman, known for blitz-heavy tactics and innovation, will get full play-calling control amid Dave Aranda’s history of micromanaging the defense.

Roster intrigue intensifies as rising stars Zashon Rich and Logan Bartley emerge as potential transfers, while DJ Coleman’s exit leaves questions for Baylor’s secondary. Cam Stuart spotlights two surprising All-Americans, Palmer Williams and Michael Trigg, celebrating Baylor’s individual triumphs despite a 5-7 season. Will Klanderman’s arrival reverse the Bears’ fortunes—and which Wildcats might join him in Waco? Get essential insights into Baylor’s rebuilding strategy and the latest transfer portal rumblings.

Everydayer Club  
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. 

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Omaha Steaks
Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale.
And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.
 

Rugiet
If you’ve been thinking about taking the next step, now’s the time.
Head to https://Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGEto get 15% off your order for a limited time.
Rugiet Ready. Feel present. Feel confident. Feel ready.
 

Aura Frames
For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code COLLEGE at checkout.
 

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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The Big 12 Conference has been nothing short of a whirlwind over the past week, marked by a major championship, postseason selection drama, and a groundbreaking business announcement that reinforces its "New Look" identity.

1. Championship and CFP Breakthrough

The week started with the Big 12 Championship Game where Texas Tech defeated BYU in a commanding fashion (34-7). This victory propelled the Red Raiders to a 12-1 record, securing the Big 12's automatic bid to the expanded College Football Playoff. The subsequent CFP rankings confirmed Texas Tech as the No. 4 seed, earning them a crucial first-round bye straight to the Orange Bowl Quarterfinal—a massive statement for the restructured league.

2. Bowl and Political Fallout

While the Big 12 celebrated Tech's CFP inclusion and the bowl selections for seven other teams, drama erupted over the bubble. Commissioner Brett Yormark publicly backed the CFP committee's decision, despite BYU's exclusion, and notably criticized Notre Dame's Athletic Director for his "egregious" outrage over the Irish being left out. This positioned the Big 12 as a stable, unified partner in the new CFP ecosystem, contrasting sharply with the ACC's turmoil. Adding to the controversy, the conference levied $500,000 fines on Iowa State and Kansas State for opting to skip bowl games, underscoring the conference's commitment to fulfilling its postseason obligations.

3. NFL Partnership Announcement

Perhaps the most significant long-term news was the conference's announcement of a strategic partnership with the NFL. This collaboration aims to align the two organizations on everything from officiating development and emerging technology to global growth initiatives. This unprecedented move further showcases the Big 12's innovative, business-forward approach under Yormark, establishing a distinct brand identity separate from the traditionalist SEC/Big Ten dynamic.

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