Baylor has never been known for their defensive prowess, but the 27.3 points/game they allowed in 2009 was their best effort in four years. Five starters are back from a squad that struggled to stop the run, giving up almost 180 yards/game on the ground. Their pass defense was respectable considering how much they sling it in the Big 12 South, allowing 227 yards/game threw the air. The defensive line will be anchored literally by NG Phil Taylor. The Penn State transfer takes up a lot of space in the middle, but his production has lagged behind. This group will need to play much better as a whole if the Bears want to reach a bowl game. Antonio Johnson brings experience at linebacker as a two year starter. He is the teams top returning tackler with 77 stops and will be one of the leaders on the defensive side of the ball. The secondary is full of question marks with an infusion of young talented players likely to see immediate action. Prince Kent and Tyler Stephenson were coveted recruits that chose Baylor and could be starters from Day 1. Special teams should improve this season, with P Derek Epperson returning. K Ben Parks will handle the field goal kicking duties.
The Bears have one of the more unique schedules in the country. They will leave the state of Texas a total of two times (Oklahoma State and Colorado) and play a neutral site game with Texas Tech in Dallas. Three of their four non-conference games should end in the win column with a tough test at TCU likely being their only defeat. Winning three more games in the Big 12 will get them bowl eligible and likely an invitation for the first time since 1994. I believe Baylor will end with a 6-6 record