No Love Lost Between TCU, Baylor Ahead of Rivalry Meeting in Waco

TCU is gearing up to resume one of its most inconsistent seasons thus far with a date against an opponent that is anything but unknown.

The Horned Frogs are loading up and moving out to Waco for the latest edition of one of its longest standing rivalries against none other than Baylor.

There is no particularly warm feelings when the Horned Frogs and the Bears line up across from each other on the field.

In fact, there is borderline hatred between the teams that makes their annual reunion one of the most anticipated games on the schedule.

Despite TCU not quite having the year it was hoping for, the anticipation of facing the Bears and the negative feelings that come alongside it has not declined at all.

"It meant a lot. I didn't really play last year because of my turf toe. In my freshman year, I played a lot. So coming back to their field, and losing [back in 2024], a lot is going to be handled in that game," said TCU junior running back Jeremy Payne.

READ MORE: TCU Sets Sights on Baylor in Rivalry Showdown After Bye Week

And Baylor shared those sentiments, while in the midst of one if its strongest seasons in recent memory.

The Bears have roared out to a 4-1 start after ripping off four straight wins since dropping a heartbreaker to Auburn 17-16 in Atlanta.

Although it has been impressive thus far, the matchup with TCU is still garnering attention within the program as a chance to truly announce its arrival.

While getting to boast a year of bragging rights over its bitter rival in the process.

"I just don't like them. I mean, none of us do," remarked Baylor senior safety Micah Gifford during the team's weekly media availability.

Outside of the historic reasons, it is easy to understand why Gifford and other members of the current Bears rosters are so adamant to earn a win this weekend in Waco.

TCU has claimed victory over Baylor in three of past four matchups and eight of the last ten in the series.

"We haven't had the most success against TCU in my time here. I feel like it's about time that changes," continued Gifford.

READ MORE: TCU Opponent Preview: Baylor's Explosive Offense Poses Major Threat

The good news for Gifford and other seniors aiming to finish their careers on the right side of the rivalry is the last time the Bears got the better of the Horned Frogs came in Waco.

In fact, Baylor has been especially strong at McLane Stadium recently, even without more than a single win to show for it.

The last three games to take place in Waco have been decided by a combined 14 points, including a dramatic 29-28 win for TCU in 2022 off a walk-off field goal from Griffin Kell to stay unbeaten.

There may not be any love shared by the longtime foes but they definitely combine for great moments anytime they get together, and this latest showdown under the lights on Saturday night in Waco should be no different.