Texas Tech Coach Defends Sorsby Amid Gambling Scandal

McGuire’s Stance on Sorsby and the Program

At Big 12 media days in Frisco, Texas, Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire insisted that the football operation remains unchanged despite the uproar over Brendan Sorsby’s gambling episode. The 54‑year‑old Texas native praised the school’s leadership and boosters for keeping the program steady throughout the turbulence. “We’ve all been in this together,” McGuire said, emphasizing that anyone walking into the facility would see no disruption on the field. He reiterated that the support system for players is non‑negotiable, even when adversity strikes.

Sorsby’s Gambling Past and Current Status

Brendan Sorsby, a Cincinnati transfer, admitted placing bets on Indiana games while still a freshman with the Hoosiers. After two seasons with the Bearcats, he inked a lucrative NIL deal with the defending Big 12 champion Red Raiders. When the NCAA suspended him for gambling, Sorsby abandoned his legal bid to restore eligibility and will hold off on entering the NFL draft until next year. Texas Tech backed him through rehab and a lawsuit against the NCAA, and McGuire remains committed to helping him stay on the right path. The quarterback is currently training in the Dallas area, close to his high‑school roots, and expects periodic visits to Lubbock for team facilities.

Quarterback Depth: Hammond’s Return and the Competition

Will Hammond, who started twice and filled in once for an injured Behren Morton, tore his ACL last season. McGuire indicated Hammond could be ready for the Sept. 5 opener against Abilene Christian, though the team might wait until the Sept. 18 game vs. Houston. Without that knee injury, Hammond would likely have been slated as the starter for the upcoming season. Tight end Terrance Carter Jr. voiced confidence in the quarterback room, regardless of Sorsby’s availability. Center and captain Sheridan Wilson echoed Coach McGuire’s “what’s next” mantra, noting the sorrow of Sorsby’s absence while the team stays focused on the Big 12 title.

Support and Backlash From the Texas Tech Community

Texas Tech officials drew criticism for standing by Sorsby after his gambling confession, prompting a video statement from President Lawrence Schovanec, AD Kirby Hocutt, and McGuire. The coaches explained that the comments were aimed at reassuring fans, boosters, and alumni about the program’s direction, not at swaying broader public opinion. McGuire clarified that the primary audience for those remarks was the Red Raiders’ own community, to whom the staff felt a responsibility to be transparent. The controversy has become a focal point for discussions aboutplayer conduct and institutional accountability.

Teammates and Family Influence

Terrance Carter Jr. said he has stayed in close contact with Sorsby, texting “I love you, bro” after learning of his rehab stint. “Our relationship is strong. It’s more than just football for me,” Carter added. McGuire revealed that his motivation stems from personal experience with addiction within his family, some members no longer with him. The coach’s focus is on ensuring Sorsby continues treatment to avoid relapse and can return as a productive player. Sorsby’s regular workouts near Dallas and planned trips to Lubbock show he remains connected to the program while navigating his next steps.