WACO, Texas — Baylor has declined an opportunity to play in a bowl game making the Bears the fourth college football team to opt out of postseason play this year, per ESPN reporter Pete Thamel.

Baylor was considered an option for the Birmingham Bowl, according to reports from multiple outlets.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel posted the school’s statement on social media, which read, “We have declined the opportunity to play in a Bowl, as we’ve already progressed deeply into the offseason timeline of preparation for the 2026 season.”

Baylor’s move comes amid a wave of postseason withdrawals across the sport. Notre Dame, Kansas State and Iowa State have all announced they will not play in bowl games following the conclusion of the regular season.

Notre Dame’s decision followed its omission from the C

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