Texas Tech moves past Sorsby controversy with new starter

Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding former quarterback Brendan Sorsby at the Big 12 Media Days in Frisco, Texas, this week, emphasizing his team's resilience while confirming the program has moved forward with a new starter. The Red Raiders' planned 2026 season with Sorsby, a high-profile transfer from Cincinnati, unraveled after the quarterback's gambling addiction came to light, leading to his NCAA ineligibility and eventual departure from the team.

Sorsby, who joined Texas Tech last winter with a reported multimillion-dollar name, image, and likeness agreement, never played for the Red Raiders. He admitted to placing thousands of wagers, including on games involving his own team, which violates NCAA rules. After entering a rehabilitation program in Arizona this spring, Sorsby received a temporary injunction that would have allowed him to play following a two-game suspension. However, significant backlash from within the Big 12 conference and from multiple state attorneys general led Texas Tech to ultimately part ways with him. Sorsby is now preparing for the 2027 NFL Draft after the league declined to hold a supplemental draft.