“We played a 279-pound freshman at tackle the last five games, but he is 300 (pounds) now,” said Rhule, referring to Connor Galvin. “For us to be a team that’s in contention and relevant in November, we’re going to have to play much better than we have on the offensive and defensive lines. I think we’re ready for that and our guys understand that’s the next step.

“We have a great quarterback, he can’t be running for his life all the time.”

When he has time, Brewer moves the Bears up and down the field with flash and dash. Like the rest of the team, he needs to gain more consistency, too. But the junior has the potential to develop into the best quarterback in the Big 12 as he enters his third year as a starter. He completed 62 percent of his passes last year for 3,019 yards and 19 touchdowns, while running for another seven TDs. He turned in arguably his best game of the year in the Texas Bowl, winning MVP honors with 384 passing yards and 109 on the ground.

Baylor’s top receiver, Jalen Hurd, moved on to the NFL, but Brewer still has plenty of playmakers at his disposal. Denzel Mims (794 yards, 8 TDs) and Chris Platt (511 yards, 1 TD) are reliable receiving targets, while running backs JaMycal Hasty, Trestan Ebner and John Lovett all have had 100-yard rushing games in their careers.