By DJ Ramirez | Sports Editor

Update: Monday, Oct. 26, 12:42 p.m.

On Monday morning, Baylor football head coach Dave Aranda clarified that senior running backs Trestan Ebner and John Lovett will not be opting for the season as reported by Sic’Em365 Sunday night.

“They’re both with us and we’re expecting them to play.” Aranda said.

When asked if he had to convince his players to stay, Aranda said they just needed to sit together and have a talk.

“I think we just had to sit down and visit. I think they both love our team. They love their teammates and we are excited about our next opportunity with TCU,” Aranda said. “I think it speaks to the time that we are in. I think guys are dealing with a lot off the field and we as coaches are here for our players.”

Aranda also noted that all COVID-19 test results taken Sunday were negative.

Baylor is still set to host TCU at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at McLane Stadium.

Sunday, Oct. 25, 7:45 p.m.

In a shocking turn of events for many Baylor fans, Baylor football’s starting running back duo of seniors John Lovett and Trestan Ebner have decided to opt out of the rest of the 2020 football season. The news was first reported by Colt Barber of Sic ‘Em 365.

News of the opt out was announced a day after Baylor’s loss 27-16 loss to Texas in Austin Saturday. It was the Bears’ first game after returning to activity this past week on the heels of a COVID-19 outbreak.

Lovett compiled 122 rushing yards on 35 carries and a touchdown through three games this season and has been Baylor’s leading rusher each of his three seasons at Baylor. He also has 21 receptions yards on five catches and touchdown.

Ebner has 55 rushing yards on 19 carries and a rushing touchdown through three games and 155 reception yards on 10 receptions and a touchdown. He also added two touchdowns on kick returns against Kansas to start the season.

Baylor Football has yet to release a statement on the matter.