Texas AD says Longhorns' vulgar celebrations...

Texas AD says Longhorns’ vulgar celebrations ‘embarrassing’

Match Overview

• Fixture: Big 12 Championship Game: Texas Longhorns vs. Oklahoma State Cowboys
• Date: December 2, 2023
• Venue: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
• Result: Texas clinched a dominant 49-21 victory over Oklahoma State, securing their first Big 12 Championship since 2009. The historic win was, however, overshadowed by post-game celebrations that drew sharp criticism from the university’s Athletic Director.

Key Stats & Facts

• Final Score: Texas 49, Oklahoma State 21
• Total Yards: Texas amassed 504 total yards (310 passing, 194 rushing) compared to Oklahoma State’s 312 yards (220 passing, 92 rushing).
• Turnovers: The Longhorns played a clean game with zero turnovers, while forcing two from the Cowboys (1 interception, 1 fumble).
• Possession: Texas maintained a slight edge in possession, holding the ball for 31:45.
• AD’s Statement: Following the championship win, Texas Athletic Director Chris Del Conte issued a stern public statement. Del Conte described the team’s on-field conduct as “an embarrassment to the University of Texas,” citing “vulgar and disrespectful gestures” that do not align with the institution’s values. He indicated that internal disciplinary action would follow.
• Context: The victory marked Texas’s final Big 12 title before their move to the SEC, adding to the significance and scrutiny surrounding the post-game events.

Player Spotlight & Standings Impact

• Standout Performer: Quarterback Quinn Ewers was pivotal, completing 35 of 46 passes for 310 yards and 4 touchdowns, earning Game MVP honors. Running back Jonathon Brooks contributed 98 rushing yards and a touchdown.
• Post-Game Controversy: While specific players involved in the “vulgar celebrations” were not named, Del Conte’s strong condemnation diverted attention from the team’s significant on-field achievement.
• Standings Impact: The win solidified Texas’s claim to the Big 12 championship and significantly strengthened their position for a College Football Playoff berth. The Longhorns are expected to be ranked highly in the final CFP committee rankings.
• Image Implications: Despite their on-field success, the AD’s public rebuke could negatively impact the team’s national image and potentially influence perceptions by the CFP committee or future recruits. The incident emphasizes the university’s commitment to upholding certain standards of conduct.