Baylor Fires Dave Aranda, Names Joe Klanderman Interim Head Coach
Baylor University has fired head football coach Dave Aranda and appointed defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
Odessa Midland, TX, October 25, 2026 —
Baylor University has fired head football coach Dave Aranda and appointed defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman to lead the team as interim head coach for the remainder of the season, according to the information provided.
The reported change places Klanderman, previously the team’s defensive coordinator, in charge of the football program on an interim basis. The summary does not specify when the decision was made or provide further details about the transition. It also does not state who will assume Klanderman’s defensive coordinator duties.
No reason for Aranda’s firing was provided. The available information does not include comments from Baylor, Aranda or Klanderman, nor does it describe the team’s record, its remaining schedule or any expectations for the interim appointment. The terms of the change and whether Baylor has begun a search for a permanent head coach were also not stated.
Klanderman’s appointment is described as lasting for the remainder of the season. That establishes the stated duration of his interim role, but does not indicate what Baylor plans to do after the season ends. No further information about the university’s process or timeline was provided.
The confirmed details in the summary are limited to Aranda’s dismissal, Klanderman’s role as defensive coordinator and his appointment as interim head coach through the end of the season. Additional information about the decision and the team’s next steps was not included.
Story summarized from the original created by JIM VERTUNO, Associated Press on www.yourbasin.com, see more information here.
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