Voices of the Bears

Former Baylor quarterback Nick Florence joined the Baylor Sports Media Network as the new color analyst for football games this fall. Paired with the Voice of the Bears, John Morris, and veteran sideline commentator Ricky Thompson, Florence stepped into a role previously held by the late J.J. Joe.

Joe, a Baylor Athletics Hall of Fame inductee, passed away on Feb. 25 at the age of 54, after 21 seasons in the booth. The Baylor football team will wear a helmet sticker honoring Joe during their Sept. 20 game against Arizona State.

Florence’s addition to the broadcast team is a celebrated return to the program. A native of Garland, Texas, he played for the Bears from 2009-12, helping to usher in a new era of success that included the 2012 Holiday Bowl victory over UCLA. He holds multiple Baylor passing records, including the single-season record for passing yards with 4,309.

Luke Holcomb, general manager of Baylor Sports Properties, highlighted the significance of Florence’s new role: “The chance to bring him onto our broadcast team as our color analyst is exciting for all Baylor fans and listeners,” Holcomb said. “We also pause to remember J.J. Joe with deep gratitude for his love, service and impact on Baylor. His legacy will always be a part of our broadcasts, and I am confident that Nick stepping into the booth will honor that tradition.”

Florence himself acknowledged the gravity of the position, stating, “It is not lost on me the opportunity presents itself due to a great loss in J.J. It’s a privilege to carry on his legacy, first and foremost, as a great father and husband.” Florence added, “Baylor Football holds a deep and special place in my heart. I look forward to playing a small part of the Baylor Football experience for our fans as I get to suit up on game day again, though in a new way.”

The broadcast team has remained remarkably stable over the last two decades. Morris, a legend in Baylor Athletics broadcasting, sees tremendous potential in Florence.

“Even during his time as a student-athlete at Baylor, it was evident how good of a communicator Nick was,” Morris said. “Now he’ll be able to share that wisdom and Baylor insight on the radio. There’s no question he will fit in well with our crew.”

Sideline analyst Ricky Thompson, a fellow Baylor Athletics Hall of Fame inductee and former NFL player, will be in his 26th season with the team. Their collective experience, supported by a seasoned technical crew, ensures a top-tier broadcast experience for fans.