10 Things: Baylor Has Moments, But the Same Old Problems Show Up

Will Boles gives his 10 Things following Baylor’s blowout loss to Utah.

1. Great start by the Baylor defense.

Two strong stops to open the game set the tone early. Baylor did a good job containing Utah quarterback Devon Dampier, forcing him to hesitate rather than play freely. It was the kind of start this defense needed.

2. Carl Williams IV is finished for the season.

Even though he came off the injury report, Carl Williams IV showed up to the game in jeans and was not suited up. At this point, it is clear he will redshirt. It is disappointing considering how much potential he brings, but it is the best long-term move.

3. Sawyer Robertson struggled to settle in.

It was a beyond rough game for Sawyer Robertson. He missed multiple easy throws, looked hesitant in the pocket and gave up multiple pick-sixes. It did not look like the same quarterback we’ve seen.

4. The secondary stayed engaged for as long as humanly possible.

Utah forced them to cover for a long time because Dampier extended plays constantly. The defensive backs held their ground and stayed disciplined in coverage. It was one of their better games of the season.

5. If Bryson Washington is healthy, give him the ball.

When Bryson Washington got touches in the first half, he was nearly unstoppable. If he really is healthy, he needs a larger share of the offense. He changes the way the entire unit looks.

6. The shirtless section was incredible.

The group of shirtless fans in the upper deck gave McLane the loudest environment it has had in a long time. The chants were great, and the energy didn’t dip until the third quarter. They kept the stadium alive, and the team felt it.

7. Small mistakes turned into big problems.

Baylor finished with far more yards than Utah, but still trailed because it could not finish drives. Missed throws, penalties, turnovers,and poor situational execution turned promising moments into wasted possessions.

8. Josh Cameron was outstanding.

He put together one of his best games of the year. His hands were strong, he fought through contact and Utah could not keep him from making plays.

9. Baylor’s run defense was nowhere close to good enough.

Utah ripped off big plays all night. Missed tackles, poor run fits and slow reaction time hurt the Bears repeatedly. Until Baylor can stop the run, nothing on offense will matter.

10. I was wrong about Mack Rhoades.

I told you all I believed in him, and I meant it. I respected Mack and trusted his leadership. But I missed. Completely. His actions, combined with the direction of this program, make it clear that Baylor needs a new voice at the top.