Baylor will reportedly be without starting quarterback DJ Lagway for its Week 2 matchup against Prairie View A&M.
According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Lagway is not expected to play on Saturday as he continues to recover from the ankle injury he suffered in Baylor’s 17-16 loss to Auburn in Week 1. Junior Nate Bennett is expected to make the first start of his college career in Lagway’s place.
The good news for Baylor is that the injury is not expected to keep Lagway sidelined long term. Thamel also reported that it’s still unclear whether Lagway will dress and be available in an emergency role against Prairie View A&M.
Lagway suffered the injury during the first half against Auburn but was able to return to the game with his right ankle heavily taped. Despite playing through the injury, Lagway finished his Baylor debut completing 27 of 54 passes for 333 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.
Head coach Dave Aranda said earlier in the week that Lagway was considered day-to-day, but with Baylor facing an FCS opponent on Saturday, the Bears will apparently take the cautious approach with their starting quarterback.
That opens the door for Bennett, who has seen limited action during his Baylor career. The junior has thrown for 53 yards over the past two seasons and will now get his first opportunity to lead the Bears from the opening snap.
Baylor enters Saturday looking for its first win of the 2026 season after coming up one point short against Auburn.
More importantly, the Bears will hope one week of rest is enough to get Lagway healthy before the competition ramps back up later this month.
