Dave Aranda addresses Baylor QB situation ahead of Big 12 title game

On3 imageby:Steve Samra12/04/21

SamraSource

The biggest question prior to the Big 12 Championship was who’s going to start for Baylor. With quarterback Gerry Bohanon sidelined with a hamstring injury, Bears coach Dave Aranda has been debating whether to run Bohanon out there, or go with backup Blake Shapen.

On ESPN’s College GameDay, Aranda revealed who will start at quarterback on Saturday for Baylor.

“We’re going to go with Blake,” stated Aranda. “Gerry’s had a great week but I think he’s still just far off from protecting himself and just him being him.

“I feel for Gerry, you know, Gerry’s such a leader for us and we would not be here without him. But just his strength, his love for his teammates, his leadership is still shining through. I’m just a huge fan of Gerry, and I look forward for when he can be our quarterback again. But what an opportunity for Blake. Blake is a great friend to Gerry, and I think their friendship is helping to propel him through this. There’s going to be ups and downs in this game, and we trust Blake and we’re riding with him.”

While Bohanon is disappointed he won’t be given a chance to finish what he started, the Bears are in capable hands with Shapen. Last weekend, the Baylor backup quarterback led the Bears to a 27-24 victory over Texas Tech.

In Bohanon’s stead, Shapen passed for 254 yards and two touchdowns — but he’ll be asked to do more against Oklahoma State. Time will tell if he can do enough to get a victory on Saturday.

Baylor vs. Oklahoma State: The Big 12 title game has huge implications

If Oklahoma State beats Baylor for the Big 12 Championship, the Cowboys will pick up its second top ten win in as many weeks. Not only can Baylor spoil the playoff hopes of Oklahoma State, but the Bears can make a strong case for themselves with a Big 12 title.

The top four of the College Football Playoff picture is likely to include Georgia, Michigan, Alabama, and Cincinnati on Tuesday night. But Oklahoma State and Baylor should be two of the top teams outside the top four. Georgia and Alabama face off in the SEC Championship on Saturday. If Georgia blows Alabama out, the Crimson Tide could very easily fall out of the playoff picture. Michigan faces Iowa for the Big Ten title, and playing against Iowa’s defense is always tough. Cincinnati also faces a tough Houston team for the American title.

While Baylor or Oklahoma State would need some help, there is a potential path to the playoff. If chaos ensues over championship weekend, the Big 12 winner is in a prime position to benefit with a rise into the top four when it is all said and done.