Football is at the heart of Texas tradition… from Friday Night Lights, to the roar of the crowd, a palpable energy runs through the entire state during "football season". In fact, in Texas, you could say fall/autumn doesn't exist, you go from summer to "football season". Football in Texas helps create the deepest of bonds, and the most wicked rivalries. 

At Baylor, football is more than just a game—it's a celebration of history, community, and pride that runs deep. From the roar of McLane Stadium to the cheers of the Baylor Line, every fall, Waco comes alive with the spirit of the Baylor Bears. Whether you're a student, alum, or fan, there's something special about game day at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. The whole City seems to deck itself out in green and gold during the school year, but fall carries with it an electric energy. Let's dive into the cherished traditions that make Baylor Football an unforgettable experience.

The Baylor Line: A Unique Tradition

One of the most exciting and unique traditions in college football is the Baylor Line. Established in 1970, the Baylor Line is composed of incoming (First-year) students who don their jerseys and run across the field before each home game, forming a human tunnel to welcome the team. The Line represents the bond between the student body and the team, and it's a tradition that newcomers eagerly anticipate, knowing they'll be part of the Baylor legacy.

All participants of the Baylor Line wear jerseys with their projected graduation year, and a nickname on the back. From the official https://about.web.baylor.edu/ site: "After each player and coach has entered the stadium, The Line takes their seats in an exclusive Baylor Line section behind the opponent's bench to cheer on the Bears to victory." Talk about exhilarating, and intimidating!

Decked out in Green and Gold

When you attend a Baylor game, you'll notice a sea of green and gold. On select game days, fans are encouraged to wear specific colors to show support and show a unified front while creating an intimidating environment for visiting teams. As always, fans show up in their unwavering support for the Bears.

Homecoming: Where Tradition Meets Celebration

Baylor University is home to the oldest collegiate Homecoming celebration in the nation, a tradition established in 1909. Every fall, alumni from across the country return to Waco to celebrate with students, the spirit of Baylor. Homecoming week is packed with events like the Bonfire, the Homecoming Parade—and of course, the Homecoming football game. This year, the Bears take on Oklahoma State Cowboys on October 26, 2024, in what promises to be a memorable matchup. Don't miss the chance to experience the pageantry and pride of Baylor's Homecoming! Celebrations will occur from October 21-26.

To learn more visit: https://homecoming.web.baylor.edu/

The Baylor Bears: Meet Judge Indy and Judge Belle

Baylor's live mascots, Judge Indy and Judge Belle, are two North American black bears that can often be found at the Bill & Eva Williams Bear Habitat on campus. These beloved mascots represent strength, loyalty, and the enduring spirit of the university. Baylor is the first university in the World to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) for their work with the Baylor Bears. These beloved members of the Baylor Family await your visit. We love following The Baylor Bear Habitat on socials for updates. (P.S. They'll update with times when they are in the enclosure, giving you great opportunities to visit them! Their gameday reels also can't be missed.)

Upcoming Games for Baylor Football 2024 Season

While the season is already underway, you won't want to miss the upcoming games. Mark your calendars! Whether you're in the stands at McLane Stadium or cheering from afar, you're sure to get swept up in the emotion of watching the BAYLOR BEARS give their all on the field!

• BYU – Home – September 28, 2024
• Iowa State – Away – October 5, 2024
• Texas Tech – Away – October 19, 2024
• Oklahoma State (Homecoming)– Home – October 26, 2024
• TCU – Home – November 2, 2024
• West Virginia – Away – November 16, 2024
• Houston – Away – November 23, 2024
• Kansas – Home – November 30, 2024

Be sure to catch these games and witness the Bears in action as they compete for Big 12 glory.

For updates and tickets, click here.  

Of course, if you'd like to visit a local bar or restaurant, plenty of them show Baylor Games and serve as gathering places for fans on game day! If you need suggestions, contact one of our agents today!

Experience the Tradition

Baylor Football is more than just a sport—it's an experience that unites generations of Bears, and Waco residents, a legacy steeped in tradition. The energy and excitement around Baylor Football remind us all what it means to be part of something bigger. So whether you're heading to McLane Stadium, planning to attend the Homecoming Parade, or just watching from home, you'll feel the spirit of Baylor with every snap, tackle, and touchdown.

Sic 'em, Bears!

If you're looking to live closer to the excitement and would like to see available properties around the immediate Baylor area (known as "the Baylor Bubble"), click here.

Our agents love to help generations of Bears find a home here, establish businesses here in Waco & Central Texas, and continue to cheer on and support the Bears and the City of Waco alike! Likewise, if you're a proud Baylor Bear, looking to establish yourself elsewhere, Kelly, Realtors offers relocation services to assist with your relocation worldwide.