Back for More Are Quite Familiar Returning Starters Give Bears Hope for Third Big 12 Title with Each Other

Monday, August 24, 2015 sports The Baylor Lariat D1 baylorlariat.com

NEW COACHES, SUMMER BALL I don’t apologize NEW ERA Lady Bears play with Fresh leadership national teams, win for what I said.” brings new life to medals over summer athletic programs break. pg. D5 pg. D2 “What was RGIII thinking? pg. D4 TODAY ONLINE >> Baylor Soccer Slideshow: All-access photos of new facility BaylorLariat.com

Fall Sports ScheduleFall 2015Overview Overview Nov. 14: BU vs. O What-to-watch-for in Baylor Athletics

Football at TCU - Nov. 27 This game may very well determine who takes the Big 12 crown in 2015.

Soccer vs. TTU - Oct. 30 Both of these teams Back for More are quite familiar Returning starters give Bears hope for third Big 12 title with each other. Sparks ﬂ y every time they play. Lariat File Photo INVALUABLE EXPERIENCE Junior quarterback Seth Russell looks deep for a pass in the Bears’ game against Northwestern State on Sept. Volleyball vs UT - Nov. 27 7 at McLane Stadium. Russell started one game last season for an injured Bryce Petty and looks to keep the starting job for the 2015 season. The Bears get to test their chops against JOSHUA DAVIS & TYLER CAGLE With this motivation teamed up alongside head coach Art Briles believes he has been pre- Sports Writers some of the best talent in college football, Bay- paring for this moment for a long time. one of the best vol- lor looks primed to make a powerful statement “He’s been paying on it for a while. Now it’s leyball programs in It’s the start of another college football sea- this year. his opportunity to make sure the clothes t,” son and the Baylor Bears, fresh o a second O ensive repower has been the trademark Briles said. the country – the consecutive Big 12 championship, are reload- of the Bears, ranking nationally in the top ve Russell will step into the starting quarter- Texas Longhorns. ed for another title run. e Bears also have a o ensively in both yards gained and points back role armed with a plethora of weapons as good chance to become one of the nal four in scored in the last two seasons. With nine start- well as the entire starting o ensive line from last the College Football Playo , something that the ers returning on the o ense, Baylor is predicted season. Few rst year starters can boast the ex- Football vs UT - Dec. 27 Bears barely missed out on in 2014. to be among the nation’s elite o enses in 2015. perience that the junior signal caller has from “We’ve used last season [as motivation]. We e loss of quarterback Bryce Petty stands out. playing over the years - including starting for an knew somebody would get h, we just didn’t One of the most successful Baylor quarter- injured Petty last season against Northwestern Last time these two know it’d be us,” head coach Art Briles said in an backs ever, Petty led Baylor to consecutive Big State, a game where he threw for 438 yards and played in Waco, the ESPN interview. 12 championships, two New Year’s bowl games, ve touchdowns. e playo snub isn’t the only source of and posted statistics that rank him second in Among the aforementioned weapons is the Bears captured their motivation the Bears will have at their disposal school history in passing yards, touchdowns, dynamic wide receiving duo of junior Corey ﬁ rst conference title. coming into 2015. e last time Baylor took the and completion percentage. Baylor has shown Coleman and sophomore K.D. Cannon, who eld, they surrendered a 21-point lead to Mich- the ability to plug in talent year in and year out combined for 2,149 yards and 19 touchdowns in BU looks to earn its igan State in the Cotton Bowl, ultimately losing and the quarterback position looks no di erent. 2014. Both players were named to the preseason third. a 42-41 shootout. Seth Russell will be the man responsible for watch list for the Biletniko Award, given to the “We’re using [Cotton Bowl loss] as motiva- ushering in a new era of Baylor football at the nation’s top receiver annually. tion. We’ve got a little extra re going into this head of the o ense a er having served as the OVERVIEW >> Page D7 season,” Briles said of the Cotton Bowl loss. backup for Petty the last couple of seasons and FOOTBALL >> Page D7 Soccer to benefit from World Cup buzz, new facility

TYLER CAGLE soccer world and the money possible gold medals. Clear- Sports Writer that’s being put into college ly America is the dominant soccer, college women’s soc- country in women’s soccer, With the U.S. Women’s cer especially,” BU head coach which has led to higher view- National Team capturing the Paul Jobson said. “[ e facili- ings than ever before. Women’s World Cup this sum- ty] is a huge piece in keeping With the success of the mer, women’s soccer has been us up with some of the top USWNT carrying over to the in the spotlight a great deal in programs in the country.” youth and lower levels of wom- this country. Stars like Alex “I think now that we have en’s soccer, it only strengthens Morgan and Carli Lloyd are some of the best facilities in the fan base and excitement for becoming increasingly popu- the country, it does help with women’s soccer at Baylor. See- lar in today’s sports landscape recruiting, especially going ing successful teams also allow for their great performances along with McLane stadium young people to strive to suc- on the pitch. at spotlight and the new track and eld ceed in a sports atmosphere can only create positive buzz facility.” and become involved either as for soccer around the nation e draw of a new stadium a fan or a player. and Waco. and state of the art facilities “Girls are going to come on e winning of the wom- helped the Lady Bears catch to our campus and fall in love en’s world cup ttingly coin- the attention of several re- with that piece [Williams Fam- cides with the opening of one cruits, bringing in a good size ily facility] as well as all the of Baylor’s new sports facili- class. e 2015 recruiting class other pieces we have to o er ties this season. e Williams consists of 13 players, double with our program,” Marci Job- Family Soccer and Olympic that of the 2014 class, and Job- son, assistant and wife to head Sports Center, a $3.3 million son believes that this athletic coach Paul Jobson, said. facility opens this fall as the bunch will greatly help the With the triumphant per- Bears begin their season. program. formance of the national While the soccer craze in “ ey’re a very athletic and team, the participation and America tended to only last for fast class ... which are the type attendance numbers for soccer a few months during the coun- of kids we like in our system,” players and fans will could see try’s participation in the Men’s Jobson said. “We are a fast and an increase. and Women’s World Cups, athletic program. We move the “We are very excited about lately, Americans have shown ball fast, we’re an athletic team, the future of Baylor Soccer a growing interest in the sport, we’re a physical team and we under the Jobsons’ leadership, with game attendance number are going to put pressure on and this state-of-the-art facili- increasing year by year. at your back.” ty will a ord the program rst- new interest, combined with Since the Women’s World class space and amenities,” Di- the Williams Family facilities, Cup was rst played in 1991, rector of Athletics Ian McCaw has increased the image and the U.S. has won three times said. interest in women’s soccer na- and has never nished lower e Bears are in action at 7 tionwide and at Baylor in gen- than third place. e domi- p.m. tonight at Betty Lou Mays eral. nance continues to the Olym- Soccer Field against the Mich- Sarah Pyo | Lariat Photographer “We’re blessed with what pics, where women’s soccer igan State Spartans. e Bears we have to help us keep up has been played since 1996 and look to capture their rst con- NEW DIGS Baylor soccer’s $3.3 million facility was announced in Fall 2014. Major construction with what’s going on in the America has won four of ve ference title since 2012. was completed late in the Summer of 2015. The facility includes a weight room and ice bath. Monday, August 24, 2015 sports The Baylor Lariat D1 baylorlariat.com

NEW COACHES, SUMMER BALL I don’t apologize NEW ERA Lady Bears play with Fresh leadership national teams, win for what I said.” brings new life to medals over summer athletic programs break pg. D5 pg. D2 “What was RGIII thinking? pg. D6 TODAY ONLINE >> Baylor Soccer Slideshow: All-access photos of new facility BaylorLariat.com

Fall Sports ScheduleFall 2015Overview Overview Nov. 14: BU vs. O What-to-watch-for in Baylor Athletics

Football at TCU - Nov. 27 This game may very well determine who takes the Big 12 crown in 2015.

JOSHUA DAVIS Buckner transferring in order to be closer to her family, as the school is located in McKinney, Sports Writer Texas - not far from Buckner’s home in Rich- ardson. e Lady Bears will have a slightly di erent Buckner, a high school McDonald’s look in the upcoming season a er losing junior All-American nominee, was in uniform for guards Imani Wright and Ieshia Small over the games but never saw any action on the oor summer. Wright, a Texas-native, decided to at Baylor. Despite the losses, last year’s Big 12 transfer to Florida State a er playing two sea- champs return key players to attempt to make sons with the Bears. e 5-foot-9 guard, who another run at the title. started 31 of Baylor’s 37 games last year, led the e Lady Bears have All-American junior team in 3-pointers made with 43, while averag- forward Nina Davis and senior guard Niya ing 9.4 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. Johnson to provide leadership. A member of She earned All-Big 12 Honorable Mention this year’s USA team in the World University honors for her part in guiding the Lady Bears Games, Davis averaged 20.7 points and 8.6 re- to a 33-4 overall record (16-2 in the Big 12) and bounds per game last year for the Lady Bears clinching Baylor’s h consecutive conference – leading Baylor to a spot in the NCAA Elite title. Per NCAA transfer rules, Wright will have Eight. two years of eligibility le starting in the 2016- All-Big 12 Honorable Mention in 2014, Niya 17 year. Johnson will continue to be the catalyst as she Ieshia Small also decided to make a move ranks No. 1 on BU’s single-season assist chart this summer, joining the Maryland Terrapins. with 322. She nished with 7.2 points and 8.8 Small, who is from Miami, averaged 2.6 points assists per game last year. and 1.7 assists while playing in 28 games as a With the subtractions of Imani Wright and sophomore for the Lady Bears last season. Small Ieshia Small, junior guard Alexis Prince (8.2 will also sit out next season and have two years points per game 4.1 assists per game) and soph- of eligibility remaining. omore guard Kristy Wallace (7.8 points per Lariat File Photo e transfer hurts the Lady Bears as they game 2.3 assists per game) can expect addition- lose a player that was named All-Big 12 pre- LADY BEAR NO MORE Former Lady Bear Imani Wright dribbles the ball in the team’s NCAA Elite al playing time. e extra year of experience un- season freshman of the year in 2013-14. A year Eight matchup against Notre Dame on March 29 in Oklahoma City. The Lady Bears lost 77-68. der their belt and added minutes should trans- earlier, she was tabbed a McDonald’s All-Amer- late into improved numbers this season. ican at Florida State University High School in transferring freshman Micayla Buckner, the low Dame. Baylor previously knocked o Iowa 81- Junior post Khadijiah Cave appears to be Tallahassee. post appears to be all hers this year. 66 in the Round of 16. slotted in the starting lineup as well this season Head coach Kim Mulkey’s squad will also be e Lady Bears look to improve upon last e Lady Bears look to defend their Big 12 for the Lady Bears. Last season, she averaged without freshman post player Micayla Buckner year’s 33-4 record that saw Baylor win the Big 12 title as the team opens the 2015-16 season on 10.5 points and 5.1 rebounds per game. With who transferred to Collin County Community and go on to reach the Elite Eight in the NCAA Nov. 3 against Texas A&M-Commerce at the the losses of graduating senior Sune Agbuke and College. ere have been speculations about tournament, where they eventually lost to Notre Ferrell Center. No time has been set for tipo .

Davis, Wallace earn international medals

JOSHUA DAVIS and wanted to do, and now I have. It was every- vis said. “It was such a blessing to be a part of.” Wallace has represented Australia on the inter- Sports Writer thing I thought it would be and more.” Baylor teammate Kristy Wallace also got the national level. Davis becomes the second Lady Bear to earn chance to perform on the international stage as Last year, she took part in the 2014 FIBA Lady Bears forward Nina Davis, a junior, gold at the World University Games behind for- a member of team Australia in the 2015 FIBA Oceania U18 Championship for Women where won some jewelry this summer – a gold medal mer teammate Odyssey Sims who won in 2011 U19 Women’s World Championship in Russia. she averaged 11.8 points and 3.2 assists per at the World University Games in South Korea. and 2013. Wallace helped guide team Australia to a game. e 5-foot-11 All-American experienced quite Davis averaged ve points, shooting 60 per- bronze medal in a 69-62 win over Spain in the Her play last year helped the Gems qualify the ride as she helped team USA go undefeated cent from the oor, while grabbing 2.8 rebounds third-place game. for this summer’s tournament. en route to an 82-63 victory over Canada in the in 10.5 minutes of action in the tournament. e sophomore guard nished second on the Both players were able to gain experience championship game. “Being able to play on the USA team and team with ten points per game, while leading the that could prove useful for the Lady Bears com- “[ e experience] is de nitely one of a kind,” represent your country [at that level] is an op- Gems in assists with 3.6 per game. ing o of their h straight Big 12 title last sea- Davis said. “It’s something I always dreamed of portunity that many people don’t get to do,” Da- is marks the second year in a row that son. summer to the team. Monday, August 24, 2015 The Baylor LariatD3 Monday, August 24, 2015 The Baylor Lariat D4 Sports Petty, others strap on new uniforms Former Bears compete for playing time in new league

TYLER CAGLE Sports Writer

Four of the biggest assets of Baylor’s 2014 football campaign are looking to make their names known at the professional level this season. With only two players drafted last season - quarterback Bryce Petty (fourth round, New York Jets) and linebacker Bryce Hager (seventh round, St. Louis Rams) - Baylor also saw receiv- ers Antwan Goodley and Levi Norwood picked up as undrafted free agents by the Dallas Cow- boys and the Chicago Bears, respectively. Bryce Petty was the fifth quarterback and 103rd overall player selected in the 2015 NFL draft by the New York Jets. Although the Jets boast arguably the worst quarterback situation in the league, head coach Todd Bowles admit- ted that Petty was not selected as an immediate Rick Osentoski | AP Exchange savior. “He’s got a lot to learn,” Bowles said. “We’re Detroit Lions defensive end Devin Taylor, left, and defensive tackle Caraun Reid sack New York Jets quarterback Bryce Petty during the first half not looking forward for him to be a starter right of an NFL preseason football game, Aug. 13, in Detroit. n ow.” While Geno Smith returned to the team as the No. 1 starter, he will begin the season on the game and having better clock presence.” of the most consistent and healthy linebackers the team, with other free agent signees Lucky injury list with a broken jaw after be- Petty is still a work in prog- in the NFL over his six seasons but depth has Whitehead and Nick Harwell moving up the ing sucker punched by former team- ress for New York, and while he always been a problem in St. Louis. ladder of the Cowboys’ receiver depth chart.” mate IK Enemkpali. is certainly improving, he will Hager led the Rams with seven tackles in Levi Norwood was signed by the Chicago This opens the door for Petty not be looked to play imme- a preseason game against the Oakland Raiders. Bears and has been in competition for a spot on to take hold of the backup position diately if the Jets can help it, With play like this, Hager can certainly compete the roster as well. With the injury to the Bears’ behind Ryan Fitzpatrick, who was Bowles said. for a roster spot and contribute on either special first round draft pick, Kevin White, the oppor- traded to New York from the Houston Hager was selected in the teams or as a steady backup. tunity for another wide out on the roster is up Texans in the offseason. seventh round and the 224th se- Goodley was picked up by the Dallas Cow- for grabs. Coming out of Waco, one of the lection overall by the St. Louis boys and is tasked with competing for the fifth Norwood has yet to register a catch in the biggest concerns surrounding Petty is Rams, who already possess pos- receiver spot on the roster. Goodley initially preseason and is listed as the last receiver on the his ability to transition from Baylor’s sibly the best front seven in the showed plenty of promise and quickly rose to Bears’ depth chart but still has a good chance to up-tempo, no huddle offense to that NFL. prominence within the Cowboys’ camp. make the squad as a returner. At Baylor, Nor- of a slower, pro-style game. Hager is competing for the “Goodley isn’t the talent that Percy Har- wood was the first team punt returner and took On Petty’s performance in camp, Hager backup role to James Laurinai- vin is, but he can be used in some of the same, reps as a kick returner as well. Bowles said he needs work “under- tis, who has served as the Rams’ creative ways.” said Lance Zierlein of NFL.com. If he can make the transition to the NFL as standing the defense, recognizing starting linebacker since his “However, a recent hamstring injury has a returner, he has a very good chance to be one where to go with the football, commanding the rookie season in 2009. Laurinaitis has been one severely crippled Goodley’s chance of making of the last 53 for week one. Monday, August 24, 2015 The Baylor Lariat Sports D5 BU Baseball names new head coach over summer offseason

TYLER CAGLE passion and that desire on video.” Sports Writer With a clear commitment to hard work and passion, Rodriguez seems to be con- After 21 seasons with Steve Smith at the centrated on the intangible side of baseball helm of Baylor Baseball, it became time for and the rest will fall in place. a change. Steve Rodriguez has been hired Rodriguez’s new face and high energy as the new head coach of the Bears in June. has also rubbed off on his new players. Smith managed the Bears to a 686-469-1 “We’re excited about how much energy record during his tenure as the Baylor he brings, and we can’t wait until we get coach but after 3 consecutive losing sea- on that field,” senior catcher Matt Menard said. “We’re ready for something new, es- Lariat File Photo sons following a conference title in 2012, Rodriguez was called in to bring new life to pecially after these last three seasons. We’re Baylor volleyball players celebrate a big point in the team’s 3-1 loss to then-No. 2 Texas on Nov. 19, ready to get back out there and get back on 2014 at the Ferrell Center. The Bears took the opening set, 25-21. Baylor Baseball. “Steve is a dynamic leader, players’ the right track.” coach, tireless recruiter and wonderful Rodriguez also states that a Baylor mission fit for our program. His highly community fresh with excitement and a successful coaching career and major fan base full of generosity was a big part of league baseball playing experience will him coming to Waco. New Slate: McGuyre “To be honest, I afford our student-athletes a rewarding experience came here and it was as we build a champion- “All I know is we are the people. When you brings new energy to ship program,” athletic going to get better. come here and you director Ian McCaw said get a chance to meet of Coach Rodriguez, Whether it is a little bit the people, you get who was a coach for the or a lot, that is going to to see them, interact volleyball program Pepperdine Waves since be depending on how fast with the students and 2004. student-athletes...[I] our learning curve can had a chance to see the Athletics Ian McCaw so confident in his ability Rodriguez, who post- JOSHUA DAVIS campus, had a chance to achieve a championship level of play. ed a record of 400-301 be.” Sports Writer to see the environment, “Ryan is a truly exceptional coach, recruiter, during his tenure as the Waves’ manager, comes Steve Rodriguez | Head Coach and then when you go Last December, Baylor fired head volleyball leader and mission fit. We look forward to him to Waco with the hope of to a football game and coach Jim Barnes, who coached 11 years at Bay- building a championship program at Baylor,” revitalizing the program you see excitement lor and compiled a record of 181-170 – the most McCaw said. after a 23-32 season last year. in the student body” wins in program history. The change to the new The intensity of the new head coach is ap- “It’s going to depend on the players,” Rodriguez said. coaching staff came as a shock to some, but first parent by his practice schedules. Senior outside Rodriguez said. “We are going to work That type of hype and transparency in year head coach Ryan McGuyre and his players hitter Andie Malloy is excited about all of the hard. If we win right now, great. All I know both the fan base and student community have seemingly had a smooth transition. extra work being put in to improve this team is we are going to get better. Whether it is a can help Rodriguez improve the team sim- “It’s been a lot of fun,” senior setter Amy from a year ago. little bit or a lot, that is going to be depend- ply by getting people in the seats and sup- Rosenbaum said. “It’s really different and so fast “[The practices] average about three hours… ing on how fast our learning curve can be.” porting the program. If that can attract a paced, but honestly it’s the first time that I’ve en- but it’s definitely worth it,” Malloy said. Hard work and a new face could cer- proven coach to Waco, it can surely attract joyed working hard.” The Bears’ first game will be played on Aug. tainly spell success for the Bears, as they recruits and fans to Baylor Ballpark. The former NAIA Men’s and Women’s Na- 28 as they participate in the Rams Volleyball posted a team ERA of 4.71 and a .255 team Coach Rodriguez looks to bring not tional Coach of the Year has an optimistic out- Classic tournament in Colorado. After the tour- batting average but despite those numbers, only a new brand and new level of excite- look for a squad that has suffered two straight nament, the team will return home to play their Rodriguez still believes in his new squad. ment to Waco this upcoming season. With losing seasons. McGuyre will bring his expertise first home game on Sept. 4. After a successful “I’ve seen statistics, I can look at film, the Bears posting a 16-12 record in Waco, and attempt to lead the Bears to a successful spring and hard-working summer, McGuyre but I want to see it, I want to see what it Baylor only went 5-15 in true away games, season. said his squad will be ready to go. looks like, I want to see what the technique a trend that will need to be improved upon “We know the principles and things we need “We’ll be ready. We’re young in some posi- looks like, I want to see what the passion in order for the Bears to compete with the to do to take us to the next level,” McGuyre said. tions but I like how the young ones are progress- looks like,” Rodriguez said. “You can’t see likes of TCU and Oklahoma State for the McGuyre is trying to implement the same ing and I’m pretty confident,” McGuyre said. a lot of those on paper, you can’t see that top of the Big 12. system of winning that made Baylor Director of Monday, August 24, 2015 The Baylor Lariat D6 Sports RGIII: Let the playing do the talking

JOSHUA DAVIS Briles knows this all too well. to someone else, they’re not a top competitor, – Rodgers, Brady, and Manning – and how they Sports Writer “He’s always had a way of stating his opin- they’re not trying to be the best that they can handle themselves in the media. Sure, deep ion that can be misinterpreted and we’ve always be,” said Gri n. down every one of them feels the same way What was Robert Gri n III thinking? ose talked about that and dealt with it,” said Briles. “ ere’s guys in this league that have done about being the best, because they’re competi- words probably best describe most sports fans’ “But that’s a part of the position he’s in, when way more than me. But I still view myself as the tors… but they’ll never say it. reactions a er getting caught up in the media you’re an elite athlete and known across the na- best because that’s what I work toward every ey know how to conduct themselves frenzy caused by the outspoken Washington tion, you have to be conscious of what you’re single day.” around the media and say all the right things – Redskins quarterback for his exceedingly bold saying and how it’s going to be interpreted.” Now that’s undoubtedly an honorable goal the de nitions of consummate professionals. assertion during an interview with WJLA-TV. Briles could not be more precise. Gri n and I wish him all the luck in the world in ac- With that being said, Gri n still has a long realizes the spotlight he’s under and there’s no complishing that feat. way to go before he can be considered as one of doubt in my mind that he knew what attention I absolutely feel that there’s some validity in the best quarterbacks in the league. his statement would bring. that statement in regards to com- I’m talking about his game and his profes- Sports TAke e ex-Baylor QB needs to petitiveness. sionalism. learn how to conduct him- A er all, in order to reach the Redskins head coach Jay Gruden knows he “I don’t feel like I have to come out here and self since so many eyes are highest pinnacle of success, quarter- will need the 2012 NFL O ensive Rookie of the show anybody anything or why I’m better than watching him. backs and all players for that matter Year to perform well this year. this guy or better than that guy,” said Gri n. So what does Briles think in the NFL have to be emboldened “He has to go out and prove it and stay “It’s more about going out and a rming that about his bold statement? with an inordinate amount of com- healthy and then continue to play,” said Gruden. for me, I go out and I play; I know I’m the best “He’s not going to mince petitive drive – which Gri n has “ e whole thing about great quarterbacks quarterback on this team. words about it … he means without a doubt. and top-notch quarterbacks is they’re durable, I feel like I’m the best quarterback in the what he’s saying and you’re So all Redskins fans should be and they do it year in and year out, game in and league and I have to go out and show that.” talking to a guy (Briles) that’s happy to hear their quarterback ex- game out. For a guy with three seasons in the NFL, going to support him 100 uding with con dence, right? Not We have to do our best to keep him healthy, whose stats have gotten progressively worse, it percent,” said Briles. exactly. and he has to do his best to perform.” seems like such an erroneous claim to make. “If he feels [like he’s the I get what he was saying about at will be the key – keeping Gri n healthy, When I rst heard this quote out of context, best quarterback in the being competitive but completely who has not proven to be very resistant to injury my immediate reaction was, “Why?” league], then that’s the way Joshua Davis disagree with him uttering those in his rst three NFL seasons. I’d like for him to show me something before I fe e l .” words. In his rookie campaign, he was able to throw he proclaims himself as one of the best in the Let me just say this now: You just don’t make that kind of for 20 touchdowns and just ve interceptions. league, if not the best. I bleed Green and Gold just like Gri n and statement in the name of professionalism. Ex- Since then, he hasn’t produced anywhere How can the former Heisman winner from Briles, and will always have a rooting interest for NFL player, head coach and ESPN NFL analyst near the same level of success in the NFL. Baylor University believe he is the best quarter- Baylor alumni in professional sports, no matter Herm Edwards also had some things to say on By making such an audacious claim, Gri n back in the league? the team. the matter in a recent interview with ESPN. seemingly ordered his own ultimatum which Maybe he was the best player in college foot- However, I also drink from the cup of reali- “I’ve always said this: ‘praise others, never could signify this as a do-or-die season for the ball in 2011, but this is 2015 and he’s certainly ty, and to think that Gri n is on the same level praise yourself’. [Praising others is] up to the former No. 2 pick. not the best player in the NFL now. of an Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, or a Peyton head coach. I’ve always told players that I’ll take Only time will tell if he can make improve- is is a guy who’s total quarterback rating Manning is entirely ludicrous. care of them if they’re playing [well]. at’s my ments to his game and learn to handle the spot- last season would’ve ranked 29 out of 32 (Grif- However, when looking at the quote in its job. [ ey] just go play quarterback,” Edwards light as a professional. n, who only played in nine games last season, entirety, I actually don’t believe Gri n meant said. History is against him. didn’t have enough pass attempts to actually exactly what the expedient media portrayed Edwards statement makes perfect sense and But we’ve seen guys make the necessary qualify on the list). him to mean. I agree with it 100 percent. Gri n should follow changes before it was too late. But let’s face it; Gri n hasn’t always handled Take a look at the rest of the 25-year-old that advice for the rest of his career and learn He just needs to play the game and talk less. the media well in terms of saying things that quarterback’s statement.. from the quarterbacks at the top of the game. avoid making headlines. Baylor head coach Art “Any athlete at any level, if they concede Look at the best quarterbacks in the league

Bromell to run in international contest

Baylor track and eld sprinter Tray- a.m. CT. Lane assignments for the heats title at the USA Junior Championships in von Bromell will compete as a member of of the 100-meters will be determined once a wind-legal 10.07 and took the NCAA Team USA at the IAAF World Champion- preliminary round action is concluded crown in a wind-aided 9.97. ships, which runs Saturday through Aug. earlier Saturday. Bromell is also slated to be a part of the 30 in Beijing, China. By his qualifying time, Bromell will United States’ 4x100-meter relay quartet, A er earning a spot on the national not have to run in that preliminary action. which would run Friday at 11:20 p.m. CT. team by placing second in the 100 meters Broadcast television coverage of Bro- is story was an original release from with a time of 9.96 (0.0m/s) at June’s US- mell’s races can be seen on tape delay at the o cial Baylor Athletics website, Baylor- ATF Outdoor Championships, Bromell 2 p.m. CT Saturday and noon CT Sunday. Bears.com. will start his world run Saturday at 6:20 Last year, Bromell won the 100-meter

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JOSHUA DAVIS & TYLER CAGLE marks the rematch everyone in the nation has game versus a preseason ranked opponent. e season, will look to continue his bruising style Sports Writer been waiting for. e Bears will travel to Amon Longhorns are currently ranked No. 3 in the na- that helped him average 11.7 points and 11.6 re- G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth to take on tion a er their 27-3 record last year. bounds per game for the Bears. With the start of another school year at Bay- the TCU Horned Frogs in what will surely be a Women’s soccer is back for an eighth season Prince, who received second team All-Big 12 lor comes the start of the Bears and Lady Bears’ bloodbath unlike any other. TCU will look for under head coach Paul Jobson. e soccer team honors last year has many experts believing his athletic schedules. Football, volleyball, women’s revenge against the Bears a er Baylor won last nished the 2014 season with a 9-8-3 record. numbers will rise from a season ago where he soccer, and preseason basketball all provide years game in one of more thrilling college foot- Armed with a young, athletic squad and with averaged 13.9 points per game (which led the great and exciting match ups for students to ball games of the season, if not the decade. the Williams Family facilities opening up for Bears) and 5.6 rebounds per game. come support their Baylor Bears. Let’s take a A er trailing by 21 in the fourth quarter, the this year, excitement and expectations for 2015 Baylor’s schedule is impressive, in that it look at the games across the Baylor landscape. Bears reeled o 21 unanswered points to tie and are high. features 16 games against 2015 NCAA Tourna- Baylor football returns a er posting an 11-2 kicked the winning eld goal as time expired to Friday, October 30 - e West Virginia ment teams. e Bears open the season on Nov. record in 2014, winning a second consecutive win 61-58. First year head volleyball coach Ryan Mountaineers come to Waco for the nal game 13 with a home game against Stephen F. Austin, Big 12 championship. While every game in foot- McGuyre looks to give Baylor its rst winning of the regular season. West Virginia had great a team that went 29-5 last season. Baylor played ball is important and o ers postseason implica- season in three years as he takes over at the success last season, nishing 2014 with a 16-2-4 SFA last year in a game that they won 67-51. tions, here’s a look at Baylor’s biggest games: helm. His impressive coaching resume at the record and winning its second consecutive Big A er the opening home game, the Bears will On Saturday, November 14, the Oklahoma NAIA level, as well as his time spent as an as- 12 Tournament. take to the road to play Oregon, as part of the Sooners come to Waco a er losing the past two sistant at Florida State have many people feeling Returning for West Virginia is sophomore ESPN College Hoops Tipo Marathon. at contests by a combined score of 89-26. e Bay- good about the new addition. forward Michaela Abam, who ranked 4th in game will be played on Monday, Nov. 16, and lor o ense has absolutely torched the Sooner e Lady Bears’ rst match is scheduled for conference goals. However, Baylor’s notoriously will tip o at 10:30 p.m. CT on ESPN2. defense recently, averaging 501 yards against the Aug. 28 against No. 12 Colorado State in the stingy defense will be very di cult to penetrate, Two additional December matchups that Sooners, while holding Oklahoma to 278 yards Rams Volleyball Classic tournament in Colora- as the Lady Bears only allowed 16 goals during present a good level of competition are games over the same span. When Bob Stoops brings do. A er the tournament, the team will return 2014. against Vanderbilt and Texas A&M. e Bears his squad to McLane Stadium, the Bears will home to play their rst home game on Sep. 4 e Baylor men’s basketball team returns will play the Commodores on Dec. 6 at the have already played eight games, so look for the versus Sam Houston State. this year a er a 24-10 record (11-7 in the Big Ferrell Center and travel down for a meeting o ense to be at full power and explosiveness, e next ranked opponent on the Lady Bears’ 12). e Bears are lead this season by seniors against Texas A&M on Dec. 19. barring any injuries or setbacks. schedule is a home match against Texas on Oct. Rico Gathers and Taurean Prince. Game times and television networks are still Friday, November 27 is also a key date as it 7 at 6 p.m. CT. at game will be the rst home Gathers, a rst team All-Big 12 selection last to be determined for those games.

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Senior tight end LaQuan McGowan (6-foot- points per game. “ ey’re all really good players but as they Brence, 2014’s No. 1 and No. 4 tacklers for the 7, 410 pounds), also returns in a more devel- Another returnee in junior running back well know, projections don’t mean anything... Bears respectively, sophomore linebacker Tay- oped role. Shock Linwood. Linwood ran for 1,252 yards you have to go out and prove it,” said Bennett. lor Young will have an even greater load on his “He’s an extremely athletic guy and that’s and 16 touchdowns in the 2014 campaign and At the forefront of the defense is mammoth shoulders this season. Bennett is not worried what made us [move him to tight end],” said will once again be the feature back in a stable of senior defensive end Shawn Oakman (6-foot-9, about Young’s progression though. Briles. “We’ve got this big, huge person that has rushers consisting of sophomore Johnny Je er- 280 pounds). Oakman looks to expand upon his 2nd-Team All-Big 12 safety Orion Stewart, good skills and we understand that we’re living son and junior Devin Cha n, who combined for record-setting season in 2014 (11 sacks – school a junior, can help Young lead the Bears’ second- in 2035 and this is an experiment... but we also 907 yards and 14 touchdowns. single-season best). ary. e two-year veteran caught a team-leading understand that we have to take the opportunity In the past four seasons, the Bears have low- Another member on that list is last season’s four interceptions and was e ective in stopping to use him to help our team win.” ered opposing teams’ averages in yards per car- 1st Team All-Big 12 junior nose tackle Andrew the run game as he ended the year third on the Baylor also returns its entire starting o en- ry and rushing yards per game, while increasing Billings. Head Coach Art Briles thinks this team with 6.2 tackles per game. sive line from the second half of the 2014 sea- their production in the sack category. For the group of linemen, led by Oakman, Billings and Expectations are high with a team returning son. According to rst year o ensive coordina- Bears to win the Big 12 and be considered Na- senior defensive tackle Beau Blackshear, can be 18 starters (9 o ense, 9 defense), but there are tor Kendal Briles, this could be one of the best tional Title contenders, they will need to contin- a force. rst-year players at crucial positions this season o enses, not only in school history, but in the ue their upward trend on defense. Senior defensive end Jamal Palmer, who suf- and the Bears’ success depends on their produc- nation as well. e defensive improvements are mainly fered am ACL tear last season, said he’ll be ready tion. Fortunately for Baylor fans, the new start- Baylor is one of only seven programs among thanks to the nationally recognized corps of to go for 2015. Palmer joins a loaded lineup on ers will have time to acclimate themselves before ‘Power 5’ schools to return all ve starters on the defensive linemen assembled under Defensive the defensive line. the heavyweight matchups come to fruition. o ensive line. Led by senior le tackle Spencer Coordinator Phil Bennett. e D-line has de- “ is reminds me of 2013,” said Bennett. “ e Big 12 is tough,” Briles said. “It’s hard to Drango, an All-American in 2014, and junior veloped to the point that many experts are in- “We’ve got guys that have played a lot of games play nine rival games year in and year out. It’s a center Kyle Fuller, the o ensive line will look to cluding Baylor in discussions for the best in the and we have a lot of [depth]. It gives us a lot of hard schedule and if you go through the Big 12 continue producing an o ensive onslaught that country. Bennett, however, believes it’s a little possibilities.” without a blemish on your record, then you’re in ranked rst in the nation in yards per game and early to be making such claims. With the losses of Bryce Hager and Collin [the College Football Playo ].” Monday, August 24, 2015 The Baylor Lariat D8 Sports