Big 12 sues Texas Tech and Texas Attorney General over quarterback eligibility dispute

The Big 12 Conference lodged a 47-page complaint in the Northern District of Texas on Monday, naming Texas Tech University, the Texas Tech University System, Chancellor Brandon Creighton, President Lawrence Schovanec, athletic director Kirby Hocutt and Attorney General Ken Paxton as defendants. The filing asks a federal judge for a declaratory judgment and a preliminary injunction that would let the league enforce its bylaws regarding Texas Tech’s plan to field quarterback Brendan Sorsby in the 2026 season.

The conference is not seeking monetary damages and does not aim to overturn the state court ruling that granted Sorsby eligibility. Instead, it wants the ability to discipline the school without interference from the attorney general’s office, which had warned that sanctions could raise antitrust concerns.

"There is considerable concern that allowing Sorsby to compete could create reputational harm and irreparable damage to public and member trust in the integrity of league competitions," the complaint states.

The lawsuit follows a letter from Paxton warning the league of potential legal action and notes that Big 12 presidents and athletic directors have urged Texas Tech not to play Sorsby, a request the school has reportedly ignored. The filing lists possible sanctions, including monetary penalties or a ban from the conference championship game, should a vote be taken.

Sorsby was declared permanently ineligible by the NCAA after admitting to wagering on Indiana football games while a Hoosier and continuing to place bets after transferring to Texas Tech, reportedly earning about $90,000 in prohibited wagers. He entered treatment for gambling addiction and anxiety, and a Texas judge later issued an injunction permitting him to compete in 2026 pending the NCAA’s appeal.

Conference officials are scheduled to meet later on Monday, but no immediate decision on sanctions is expected.