When LSU plays Baylor in the Texas Bowl, it will see a familiar face on the opposing sideline.
Baylor head coach Dave Aranda was the Tigers’ defensive coordinator from 2016-19, helping lead LSU to a national championship in his final season.
LSU and Baylor are already in Houston, with bowl prep coming to a close. Aranda met with the media on Saturday. Here’s what he had to say about facing LSU.
“Got a really strong challenge with this team we’re about to play, the weapons they have, how explosive they are on offense. And the defense, the negative plays they create, the pressure they put you in. It’s gonna be a tough matchup for us,” Aranda said.
Aranda was asked how he’s changed since taking over as the head coach at Baylor. He said there was some growing up to do. He’s learned how to better deal with the pressure of being a head coach.
On the prospect of facing LSU again, Aranda embraced it.
“It’s really cool,” Aranda said, “So many good memories and such great people, and such respect and appreciation for all of it. How my family was treated, just all of it.”
“I’m rooting for LSU — except for this game,” Aranda said.