Blake Shapen wasted no time reminding fans why he’s the heart of the Baylor offense, torching Tarleton State for 295 passing yards and 3 touchdowns in just over three quarters of action. The Bears dominated from the opening whistle, scoring on their first five drives and holding the Texans to a mere field goal in the second quarter. Shapen displayed elite poise in the pocket, connecting with wide receiver Monaray Baldwin for a 67-yard bomb that electrified McLane Stadium. But as spectacular as the offense was, it was Dave Aranda’s defense that stole the show. Junior linebacker Matt Jones led the charge with 9 tackles, 2 sacks, and a forced fumble, while cornerback Tevin Williams III snagged a pick-six that sealed the defensive showcase. The Bears held Tarleton to just 145 total yards and didn’t allow a single third-down conversion until late in the fourth quarter. “We wanted to send a message,” said Jones postgame. “This defense isn’t just solid—it’s elite.” With a conference schedule looming, Baylor’s emphatic win sets the tone for a season in which expectations are sky-high. If this opener is any indication, the Bears are gunning for a Big 12 title—and maybe more.
Blake Shapen Orchestrates Baylor Beatdown as Bears Obliterate Tarleton State 45–3 in Defensive Masterclass
By Mikesportz
