As the Big 12 deliberates on potential actions against Texas Tech and quarterback Brendan Sorsby, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has urged the conference to suspend Sorsby. In a letter addressed to Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark and board chairman Douglas Girod, Drummond expressed his support for the conference’s authority to sanction both Texas Tech and Sorsby, dismissing recent claims from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton that such actions would be unlawful as “meritless” and “facially absurd.”
Drummond criticized Texas Tech’s efforts to secure eligibility for Sorsby, who the NCAA has deemed permanently ineligible due to extensive gambling on college sports, including games involving his own team. He described these actions as a “shameful chapter in the story of college football” and stated that Texas Tech has acted contrary to the integrity of the sport.
He argued that the preliminary injunction obtained by Sorsby in Lubbock district court only applies to the NCAA and should not prevent the Big 12 from enforcing its own rules, emphasizing that the conference was not involved in that legal proceeding.
Drummond further asserted that Texas Tech has avoided accountability by seeking a favorable ruling from a court, prioritizing victory over integrity. He called on the Big 12 to take decisive action, stating, “If Texas Tech will not do the right thing, the Big 12 should. Texas Tech should be sanctioned.”
The Big 12’s executive board met recently to discuss Sorsby’s eligibility after a judge cleared him to play this season, despite his history of placing impermissible bets. The other 15 universities in the conference have unanimously opposed allowing Sorsby to participate this season.
Yormark is set to meet with the full board of Big 12 presidents and chancellors on Monday, and he indicated that “all options remain on the table” regarding the situation.
In response to Drummond’s letter, Paxton warned that the Big 12 could face significant legal repercussions if it takes action against Texas Tech, citing potential antitrust issues and breach of contract claims. However, Drummond countered that the Big 12 is a private organization that can enforce its own rules and maintain its integrity.
Drummond also referenced Bylaw 3.6, which allows the conference to sanction a member institution if a supermajority of directors agrees that the institution has acted against the best interests of the conference. Paxton has stated that Texas Tech will explore all legal options if the Big 12 decides to impose sanctions.
Meanwhile, Texas Tech officials have defended their handling of Sorsby’s case, emphasizing their support for the quarterback as he works through his recovery from gambling addiction. A Texas judge recently granted Sorsby a temporary injunction, allowing him to practice with the Red Raiders and play this fall after serving a two-game suspension, although the NCAA is appealing this decision.
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