Presser: Baylor Interim Joe Klanderman Addresses the Coaching Change, UCF Game

Summary

Baylor interim head coach Joe Klanderman described the coaching transition as both tumultuous and potentially galvanizing. He thanked Dave Aranda for bringing him to Baylor and Doug and Javon for trusting him with the team.

Klanderman said the players were initially shocked by the news, but their first practice afterward had strong energy and camaraderie. Several players stayed to speak with him late into the night.

Priorities for the Interim Tenure

Klanderman identified three priorities:

• Bring renewed energy to the program.
• Strengthen relationships and roster continuity for the future.
• Build more complementary football to help the team win games.

He said he would not campaign for the permanent head-coaching job, emphasizing that his focus was on the players and these goals. He added that the team belongs to the players and that they need to take ownership of the season.

Preparation for UCF

Looking ahead to Friday’s game at UCF, Klanderman described preparation as difficult because of the short week. He noted that UCF was playing well after upsetting BYU.

With limited time to install new schemes, Klanderman expected Baylor to rely on familiar principles. He stressed the importance of energy and execution. He also confirmed that he would continue calling the defense while handling head-coaching duties, with staff members taking on more responsibility for in-game adjustments.

Team and Personnel

Klanderman discussed several recent issues and personnel:

• One recent extra-point block resulted from a technique mistake; another came from strong opponent execution and a low kick trajectory.
• He praised safety Micah G—whose surname is unclear in the subtitles—for adjusting from receiver to defense and making plays, including an interception against Kansas.
• He said Baylor needed simpler assignments and better blocking angles on the offensive line. He also called for renewed emphasis on getting off the ball and valuing steady gains rather than expecting every run to break for a big play.

Klanderman urged fans to expect a team that plays with passion, energy, and togetherness, while acknowledging that results would depend on the habits the team builds.

Video Details

• Presenter: Joe Klanderman
• Source: SicEm365 press conference
• Context: Press conference previewing Baylor’s upcoming matchup with UCF; no game is played in the video.
• Timestamps: Not provided in the subtitles.