Austin, Texas – University of Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte issued a public apology on Tuesday after defensive end Colin Simmons and running back Raleek Brown engaged in vulgar on‑field celebrations during the Longhorns’ 20‑17 victory over Tennessee. In his weekly “Forty Acres Insider” blog, Del Conte described the actions as “embarrassing” for the school and emphasized the need for class, dignity and respect.
Details of the celebrations
During the game, Simmons was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct after he mimicked urinating on the field following a school‑record 5½ sacks. In the fourth quarter, Brown’s touchdown celebration involved placing his hand on his crotch, then his face, and pretending to pass out. Both actions drew immediate attention from fans and media.
University response
Del Conte wrote, “I’m not happy about that, I know none of us are, and it was embarrassing to our proud and widely respected football team, athletics program and university.” He added that the conduct raised “very warranted concerns” shared by many supporters. The AD noted that head coach Steve Sarkisian called the celebrations unacceptable, discussed the incident with the players, and indicated that discipline would follow, though he did not specify the penalties.
Sarkisian briefly removed Simmons from the game, and video clips of the moment went viral by halftime. Simmons later apologized in post‑game comments, saying he regretted his actions.
Del Conte’s apology and corrective stance
Del Conte continued, “I also want to add my apology to our Longhorn community and everyone who expects better from Texas. We should represent this university with class, dignity and respect at all times, and in those moments, we fell short.” He recognized that the players are young men who made mistakes and framed the episode as a meaningful learning experience. “They have owned their mistakes, and those actions are not reflective of who they are,” he wrote.
The AD stressed that similar conduct “cannot happen again,” underscoring the university’s commitment to upholding its reputation.
Context of recent controversies
This statement marks the third public address by Texas officials regarding on‑ and off‑field issues since the Longhorns rose to No. 1 after beating Ohio State on Sept. 12. Earlier, star quarterback Arch Manning apologized for laughing about an AI‑generated video that depicted Sarkisian slapping ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe. Additionally, the university suspended linebacker coach Johnny Nansen for one game after a misdemeanor DWI arrest.
Texas Board of Regents Chairman Kevin Eltife, who maintains a close relationship with Del Conte and Sarkisian, did not respond to a request for comment.
Looking ahead
Del Conte’s firm stance signals that the administration will enforce higher standards of conduct for its athletes, aligning with the university’s long‑standing emphasis on character and academic excellence. Fans and alumni are encouraged to support the team while holding players accountable for behavior that reflects the values of the Longhorn community.
Original reporting: Fort Worth, TX Sports (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
