Baylor Faces Key Player Injuries Ahead Auburn Season Opener

Baylor head coach Dave Aranda provided updates ahead of their season opener against Auburn, revealing that freshman running back Michael Turner is unlikely to play due to nagging injuries, which could leave fellow freshman Caden Knighten as the primary backup behind star Bryson Washington. Additionally, Baylor may be without junior safety Carl Williams IV, a key defensive player dealing with a meniscus injury, which could severely impact the secondary against Auburn's strong wide receiver corps led by Cam Coleman and Eric Singleton Jr. Aranda emphasized the challenge posed by Auburn's deep and talented wide receiver group and highlighted the necessity for Baylor's defense to stop the run and pressure quarterback Jackson Arnold to limit big plays. Aranda praised Arnold's arm strength and running ability, noting the difficulty in containing him, especially with Williams potentially sidelined. The Baylor defense faces a tough test against Auburn's offense, which combines a potent passing game with a mobile quarterback, while Baylor deals with significant personnel challenges on both sides of the ball. The game is set for Friday at McLane Stadium in Waco and will be televised on FOX.