By Giselle Lee | Staff Writer
As the sun set and the lights dimmed on a hot Saturday evening, the Class of 2030 charged into McLane Stadium to usher in the first Baylor home football game of the 2026-27 season with a tradition that has stood the test of time.
The Baylor Line, voted as the nation’s best walk-out tradition earlier this year, was filled with eager and excited freshmen who were ready to showcase their Baylor spirit. Donning the signature gold Baylor Line jersey, the new students rushed the field at McLane Stadium to form a massive human tunnel before the football team’s entrance against Prairie View A&M.
Fulshear freshman Morgan Moore, Copeland freshman Sydney Zimmerhanzel and Georgetown freshman Emily Maier were among the many first-time runners awaiting amongst the crowded Line.
“I’m excited to be part of the community, not just with the students, but seeing alumni and everyone else here celebrating the same thing,” Zimmerhanzel said.
The Line’s extensive history has evolved beyond just a community tradition, but a symbol of belonging that past and current Baylor students share.
“I think about all the people who ran the line before me and how amazing that is to be able to be a part of it,” Maier said.
Moore echoed that sentiment.
“I think it unifies us with the future and former Baylor students,” Moore said.
As excitement filled the atmosphere at the south end of the stadium, the freshmen remained energetic even through the high temperatures throughout the afternoon, reflecting on the significance of tradition as they awaited their opportunity to experience running the Line firsthand.
“It reminds me of how hard I work to be here to actually wear the jersey and be on the field,” Zimmerhanzel said.“It’s an honor and a blessing.”
The Line is the main attraction amidst the new “Fan First Era” championed by Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Doug McNamee, who hopes to enhance the game day experience at home football games through multiple changes, such as lower concession prices, live music outside the stadium and a brand new LED lighting system.
The freshmen were not only looking forward to running the Line, but also to partake in Baylor home football games as well.
“I’m ready to watch them score a touchdown in-person,” Moore said.
After Baylor’s dominant win against Prairie View A&M, the Class of 2030 will be able to run again during the rest of the home football games, with the closest one being Sept. 19 during the Family Weekend game against Louisiana Tech.
