Baylor Football Under Matt Rhule

2 min read 25-11-2024

The Rise of the Bears

When Matt Rhule took over as the head coach of Baylor University's football team in 2017, the program was still reeling from the aftermath of a sexual assault scandal that had rocked the campus. The team was in disarray, and many wondered if Rhule, a relatively unknown coach at the time, was the right man to lead the Bears back to respectability.

The Rebuilding Process

Rhule's first season at Baylor was a tough one. The team finished with a 1-11 record, and the losses piled up. But Rhule was not deterred. He went to work, recruiting new talent, instilling discipline, and preaching a culture of accountability. The early signs were promising, but it would take time for the fruits of his labor to manifest.

The Turnaround

In 2018, Baylor took a significant step forward. The team finished with a 7-6 record, including a thrilling 45-38 win over Vanderbilt in the Texas Bowl. It was the Bears' first bowl victory since 2015, and it marked a turning point in Rhule's tenure. The following season, Baylor took another leap, finishing with an 11-2 record and a Sugar Bowl appearance.

The System

Rhule's success at Baylor was built on a foundation of physicality, discipline, and a commitment to running the ball. His teams were known for their punishing ground game, which allowed them to control the clock and wear down opponents. Defensively, the Bears were stingy, using a 3-3-5 scheme to confuse opposing offenses and limit big plays.

The Legacy

When Rhule departed Baylor for the Carolina Panthers in 2020, he left behind a program that was significantly better than the one he inherited. The Bears were back in the national conversation, and Rhule's influence could be seen in the team's toughness, resilience, and commitment to excellence.

The Impact

Matt Rhule's tenure at Baylor may have been brief, but his impact on the program will be felt for years to come. He restored pride, rebuilt a winner, and showed that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for redemption and resurgence. As Rhule navigates the NFL, Baylor fans will always look back on his time in Waco with gratitude and appreciation.