Utah AD Fined, Faces Backlash After BYU Loss

Utah athletic director Mark Harlan was fined $40,000 and publicly reprimanded by the Big 12 after making inflammatory remarks about officiating following Utah's narrow 22-21 loss to BYU. Harlan accused the officials and the conference of 'stealing' the game from Utah due to a controversial defensive holding call during BYU's final drive, which enabled them to secure a game-winning field goal. His comments were made in an unannounced post-game press conference and were criticized for challenging the integrity and professionalism of the Big 12 officials. In response to the fine, Harlan acknowledged the inappropriateness of his remarks but refrained from apologizing, stressing his intent to stand by his players. The incident has sparked significant backlash on social media, with some Big 12 fans calling for Utah's expulsion from the conference. The Big 12 emphasized the importance of professionalism and integrity in issuing the fine and warned of more severe penalties for future infractions.