Finebaum calls Texas Tech ‘the culprit’ in Sorsby ruling, not playing school would be ‘chaos’
Analyst reacted Tuesday to the news during a hit on ESPN.
Olivia Bennett 
Paul Finebaum isn't pulling any punches when it comes to the ongoing controversy surrounding Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby. The veteran ESPN analyst points the finger squarely at Texas Tech, labeling the university the primary culprit in a situation that he warns has pushed college athletics to DEFCON 1.
A Legal Precedent with Massive Consequences
The firestorm began when a Texas judge granted Sorsby a temporary injunction, effectively clearing him to compete this upcoming season. This ruling directly defies the NCAA's previous declaration of ineligibility, which stemmed from Sorsby’s history of wagering on college sports, including games involving his former team at Indiana.
Speaking on ESPN’s Get Up, Finebaum expressed frustration with the inaction of conference leadership. While referencing the recent statement from the Big 12, Finebaum suggested that commissioner Brett Yormark is one of the few individuals with the power to intervene. "I believe that Brett Yormark is probably the only one left that can stop this," Finebaum told Mike Greenberg. "He can declare Sorsby ineligible, yes it would be litigated, but at least somebody would stand up."
The Threat of Gridiron Anarchy
The ruling has sent shock waves through the industry, with Finebaum noting that officials everywhere—outside of Texas Tech—seem to view this as a disastrous decision for the integrity of the sport. The fallout is already affecting scheduling, as programs like Georgia and Nebraska, along with leadership in the Big Ten, are reportedly exploring ways to avoid facing the Red Raiders.
However, Finebaum warned that attempting to boycott games could plunge the sport into total chaos. He argued that if schools unilaterally refuse to play, they risk violating contracts with leagues and television networks, leading to mass forfeits. Ultimately, Finebaum believes the responsibility lies with Texas Tech. "Texas Tech is the culprit here," Finebaum stated. "They have agreed and supported Sorsby in this case, and they’re the ones that probably should say, 'we’re not going through with it.'"
