Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has warned the Big 12 Conference that any attempt to sanction Texas Tech University for allowing quarterback Brendan Sorsby to participate during the 2026 football season could violate state and federal law and expose the conference and its member schools to significant legal liability.

Sorsby Case Background

The dispute stems from Sorsby’s ongoing legal battle with the NCAA. A Texas court granted the quarterback a temporary injunction allowing him to play during most of the 2026 season while the case proceeds. Under the order, Sorsby must serve a two-game suspension.

According to court filings, Sorsby admitted to placing sports wagers during his college career, including bets involving Indiana football games while he played for the Hoosiers. He has stated that he never wagered against Indiana or its players.

Texas Tech’s Position

Texas Tech officials have maintained that their focus is on supporting Sorsby’s recovery and complying with the court’s ruling. “We love Brendan and support his decision to seek professional help,” Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire said. “Taking this step requires courage, and our primary focus is on him as a person.”

Texas Tech Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt said the university was not attempting to manipulate Sorsby’s eligibility status and urged broader discussion about similar cases. “I understand the frustration,” Hocutt said. “This situation is hard, it is new, and there is no perfect answer. The system we’re operating within is binary, but the situation is not.

The NCAA has indicated it plans to appeal the ruling, while Texas Tech has stated it will continue supporting Sorsby as the legal proceedings move forward.

Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.