Baylor's Jackson Named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week
Locale: UNITED STATES

WACO, TX - January 27th, 2026 - Baylor University's football program is celebrating a significant achievement this week as running back JaQuan Jackson has been recognized as the Big 12 Conference Offensive Player of the Week. The announcement, made Monday, highlights Jackson's dominant performance in Saturday's decisive 45-0 victory over Kansas.
Jackson's career-defining game saw him explode for a personal-best 184 rushing yards and two touchdowns on a remarkably efficient 21 carries. The performance not only showcased his individual talent but also proved instrumental in securing a crucial victory for the Baylor Bears. This week marks a pivotal moment for the team as they head into the Big 12 tournament, a relatively new competition format for the conference.
A Season of Recognition for Baylor's Offense
Jackson's award is the second offensive player of the week honor earned by the Bears this season, demonstrating a consistent level of offensive prowess within the Baylor program. Earlier in the year, on September 23rd, quarterback Blake Shapen received the same distinction. Shapen's earlier recognition underscores the strength and depth of Baylor's offensive unit, a combination of talented players and a well-executed game plan under Head Coach Dave Aranda.
This dual recognition for Shapen and Jackson speaks volumes about the offensive capabilities of the Baylor Bears and positions them as a formidable force within the Big 12 Conference. The team's overall offensive consistency has been key to their success this season, allowing them to compete effectively against a range of opponents.
Securing a Tournament Spot & Looking Ahead to Texas Tech
The victory against Kansas, fueled by Jackson's impressive performance, proved to be essential for Baylor, allowing them to even their season record at 7-7. More importantly, it solidified their place in the inaugural Big 12 tournament. The tournament, implemented to add another layer of competitiveness and excitement to the conference, provides a unique opportunity for teams to extend their season and compete for a conference championship beyond the regular season schedule.
With a 7-7 record, Baylor faces a challenging but promising path forward. Their first tournament game will be against Texas Tech this Wednesday, setting the stage for what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. Texas Tech presents a significant test for the Bears, known for their aggressive defense and well-rounded offensive strategy. Baylor's success in this game will likely hinge on their ability to maintain the offensive momentum displayed by Jackson and the rest of the team in recent weeks.
JaQuan Jackson: A Rising Star?
While Jackson's performance was outstanding, it is also a reflection of the growth and development seen in the entire Baylor rushing attack this season. Coaches have been emphasizing improved offensive line blocking and play design to create more opportunities for the running backs. Jackson's breakout performance signals the potential for sustained success and increased expectations for his role in the team's future. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching to see if he can replicate this level of performance in the upcoming tournament games and beyond.
Big 12 Tournament - A New Era for Conference Football
The Big 12 tournament's implementation represents a new era for the conference, potentially impacting recruiting and fan engagement. The added spotlight on teams vying for the championship will likely attract more attention and generate increased revenue for the conference. For Baylor, it offers a chance to prove their resilience and competitive spirit on a larger stage.
Baylor fans are eagerly anticipating Wednesday's game against Texas Tech and are optimistic about the team's chances in the Big 12 tournament. The performance of JaQuan Jackson, and the continued success of Blake Shapen and the rest of the offense, will undoubtedly be key factors in determining their tournament fate.
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