The Baylor Bears lost their star running back to the transfer portal after Bryson Washington opted to transfer to Auburn — a team Baylor will see right away . However, the cupboard is far from empty in Waco. Washington was a good back, who rushed for over 1,000 yards in 2024. But Baylor had a pair of former freshmen learn young after both Caden Knighten and Michael Turner were thrust into action. The main reason Baylor had to play two true freshmen was that veteran Dawson Pendergrass went down with a season-ending injury in fall camp . But Pendergrass is back and will likely be the lead runner this season for Baylor. He played a pivotal role for the Bears in both 2023 and 2024, as either the lead running back or the No. 2. Earlier this spring, running back coach Khenon Hall said he believes Pendergass will be a force to be reckoned with. Chris Jones-Imagn Images "It's great to have Dawson back," Hall said this spring.…